The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

Hi everyone,
I have a Victrola V key which is not like my others which are gold or nickel plated. This appears to have an original darker finish. Was this for a special wood Victrola like Flemish or English Oak or something? Any info would be appreciated. Thanks.

Hi Bob,

Good to see you posting here again! It would be nice to see a photo of this key next to one or more of your gold Victor keys for comparison. From the photos you posted, it looks to be a gold key with a lot of the plating worn away --- but you seem to indicate that is not the case.

Below are pics of the three colors of typical/common "V" keys I have (with and without artificial lighting). The darker key is sort of an anodized black that matched the exterior metal parts on a dark mahogany VV-100 I once owned. Perhaps other finishes exist on keys.

Also, PM is being sent just to talk.

Hope others chime in,
Bob Coon --- WI