The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

I’m looking for someone to professionally refin the metal portion of my Edison Opera horn. The wooden part looks great, but the curved metal attachment is original and has nearly no paint. I’m told originally that it was a faux wood grain, does anyone have any suggestions? Thank you!

I had this done for my Opera. I think Raphael Cole had a contact for someone who did this but that person has since stopped.

My Opera elbow was original but missing more than half the paint. I like to keep things original but it really bothered me so I pulled the trigger and had it done.

I found someone online, Ronald Layman with The Faux School, and he took the project on. It was really really pricey, but I looked everywhere and couldn’t find anyone to do it (I’m pretty handy and artistic but didn’t think I could do it myself).

I can’t seem to find a photo of the before, but attached is an afterwards photo. I’m happy with it and now my Opera is up to snuff.

I did find a before photo for comparison. See below:

My guy retired earlier in 2022 and I am at a loss myself as to who to turn to in the future.

Raphael

In the luxury residential interior design arena, every good interior designer has a good faux finisher that they contact. There are several good ones here in Baltimore. any major city should have a few faux finishing artisans who can do this work.

Another possibility might be your local antique car clubs. Many dashboards and trim pieces from cars in the 30's and 40's had faux wood trim.

Jerry B.

The man to Refinish Opera horns was always Don GFell/ If anyone would know, It would be him. I would highly suggest contacting him.... His last known e-mail adress is: [email protected]

Hi website is: www.edisonman.com


Tony K. (Edison Collector/Restorer) :0)