The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

I am looking to buy a motor for my Gem. Also can use the wood
base. Thanks!

I wish you the best of luck. Need a Standard motor?... no problem. Need a Home motor?... no problem. Need a Gem motor?... good luck. There was so much variation with the Gems and they used motors that had minor differences even within a particular Gem model. I don't mean to discourage you but if you don't have much invested in your incomplete Gem, you might be better off to buy a complete one. Jerry Blais

Jerry B. wrote:I wish you the best of luck. Need a Standard motor?... no problem. Need a Home motor?... no problem. Need a Gem motor?... good luck. There was so much variation with the Gems and they used motors that had minor differences even within a particular Gem model. I don't mean to discourage you but if you don't have much invested in your incomplete Gem, you might be better off to buy a complete one. Jerry Blais

I was afraid of that. I can't recall seeing them on ebay too often so its probably going to be
a tough find. Compounding the problem I am not sure what model I have exactly. The lifter
knob on the carriage should be on the earliest model, but mine has the Gem logo. My best guess
is its like the old style lid on my L door, a holdover from the older parts during the
transitional period. I got it for $50 and it has a Model B reproducer and a 1960's repro
horn. I have been looking for a Gem for a while so I will just have to be patient to see
if I can find the right parts to finish this. Thanks Jerry.

Maybe George V. can help you. If he can't, I don't know who to suggest... perhaps shoot up flares.

Jerry B. wrote:Maybe George V. can help you. If he can't, I don't know who to suggest... perhaps shoot up flares.

Yeah, I just sent George an S.O.S. email. Wish me luck!

You still made out. A Model B reproducer is certainly worth more than $50.00.
Harvey Kravitz

Phonofreak wrote:You still made out. A Model B reproducer is certainly worth more than $50.00.
Harvey Kravitz

True, even parts-wise it was a good deal. I think my best bet is to hold onto the parts. Then if
I can find a running model A with a trashy looking case I can cannibalize the motor. Time to
play the waiting game.