The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

Is there any way to tell whether or not the Banner decal on my Edison Standard "B" is original? I have attached a photo. In his cylinder book, Frow says the earlier models still carried the banner transfer but that it was replaced in the summer of 1906 with the simpler "Edison" decal. He also states that the speed test marks on the back rod were added in 1906. Mine has those and also has "tufts of grass" at the corners of the gold lining the bedplate. All of this would indicate my machine was made during the first half of 1906, if the banner is original. The serial number 407232. Your opinions will be greatly appreciated.

My ITC Model B (#281792) has a nearly pristine banner.

- Bill

According to sales data from the National Phonograph Company, Edison Standard No.407232 left the factory in January 1907. The decal on your cabinet looks original, so it's probable that the 1907 mechanism was much later placed into a November 1905-summer 1906 cabinet.

George P.

Hello.

Yes, George is correct about the case being an original replacement. I spotted it on ebay sometime before 2013 and at that time it had a Tall style case with an "Edison" transfer on front and 2&4 minute attachment. Looking at the very nice condition of your case, I can easily see why somebody would want to swap it for the more humdrum existing case. If you care to have it, I've attached an updated copy of the Standard data sheet.

Best Wishes,

Martin

It sounds like I have a "FrankenMachine" on my hands. Here is a photo I took of 407232 the day I purchased it from an Antique store in Buford, GA in July, 2018. No 2/4 minute gearing and no dealer tag so the case is not the only thing that was changed.

I also have some data to add to your Standard data sheet as I also own Standard "B" s/n 532554 - Photos attached. My full name is Randy Mullinax and I reside in Gainesville, Georgia.

Thanks to you both for the great information.

Thanks for the additional information, Randy. Here's a copy of the updated Data sheet.

Regards,

Martin