The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

I found this Victor VTLA just 23 miles from my house. I inquired about it just 14 minutes after it was posted. It is serial #658, so it has some different features than others I have seen. This one has been in the same family since new, and from the looks of it, has always been kept indoors. The boxes (albums) are all there and filled mostly with Victor one-sided selections. The cabinet presents itself very well, with just some light aligatoring. It needs the springs serviced, and the reproducer rebuilt, to function again. The front feet were damaged (six chips), BUT all chips were in the little needle drawer, as was the key. It needs original casters. I did buy new replacements until the originals can be obtained. I found a Pathé' reproducer in the big bottom drawer. The gold crank really looks unused... cleanest one i've seen.

It was a great score, just two weeks before my birthday. I am sitting here waiting for lights and sirens, as I stole this beauty for $400. A strong 7/10 condition.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V4W-30o_kj0 For a walk around tour.

Look at that woodgraining! It looks like it's burning!

A regular Victrola XVI at $400 would be a deal, but you bought the granddaddy of all Victrolas for that: what a find!

Many years ago, I made a big mistake. One that you did not have the misfortune of making yourself. I was offered a mint condition Flat Top Pooley Victrola for the exact same price. I didn't realize what I was looking at and thought, "wow, that's ugly", and passed on it. What an idiot!

Incidentally, yours looks beautiful. Not a bit ugly!

Very Nice!! Congrats.

Congratulations , Great Find, Beautiful condition.

It’s beautiful, congratulations!

A truly historic machine. Congratulations! PM sent.

Jerry Blais

WOW, What a Great find!

Cheers, Bob S.

Congrats on purchasing this beauty. Did the family tell you any stories to go with it? Did they have any old pictures of it?

I hope the accompanying records are the same age as the machine!!