The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

I have a Stradivara in its cabinet that is in close to working order. I just oiled the tone arm bearings that I thought was toast, and the retaining ring managed to go back on correctly. I was thinking I’d need to buy or make a new ring for it, but I seem to have gotten lucky.

Next thing it needs is a new crank, the previous owner couldn’t find it when he gave me the machine, so I’m stuck with a generic one that doesn’t fit. Does anyone know what the threads on the end of the crank are, or whether it has a notch on the end of it that engages the winding mechanism? I’m pretty sure that the mechanism has already been cleaned and serviced, but will talent out and apart if need be!

How about some pics? Maybe I'm the only one on here that doesn't know what a "Stradivara" is, or looks like...

The Stradivara was made by the Compton Price Co. a furniture manufacturer from Ohio, originally they were the Compton Price Piano Company before becoming just a general furniture maker. It was a common custom for piano companies to get into the phonograph market, Kimball, Aeolian, Starr, Bush and Lane, Steger & Sons, just to name a few. They'd make the cabinet and have their own parts cast or order the mechanical components from a supplier company.

Stradivara used generic supplier parts, and the ones I've seen used the same supplier. I'd have to see the motor to be sure, but there are currently a few cranks on eBay I could suggest.

I'd love to see the Stradivara! Those old off-brand machines can be really beautiful. Oak or mahogany cabinet?

Will try to get some pictures tomorrow. Rain day means no gardening, and indoor tinkering.