The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

Mahogany Edison Operas are fitted with an oxidized crank, and oak ones have a nickeled crank.

Did the later mahogany "Concert" Operas all utilize an oxidized crank, or did they come with a nickeled one?

Raphael

The later Concert Operas, that I have are oxidized, if in a Mahogany case. I have an early mahogany Opera, that never had the little "box" inside,and it came with a nickel crank, with a mahogany wooden handle.
Burdette

Thanks for your input, but what I am seeking is how they may have left the factory. Over the years cranks may have been swapped out or missing cranks replaced with any available substitute.

Raphael

My very late Concert/Opera No.4645 has an oxidised winding handle. I have no reason to think that it is not the original.
The machine is complete down to the elusive record brush, and even the diaphragm in the reproducer looks original.