The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

Hello,

I have encountered the phonograph shown in the attached picture.

It seems to be an early 2 clip standard model, with serial number S 7078 but the license plate seems to be not the original one, or at least not in the common position which it should be.

Does any of you know something more? Is it anyway original and authentic?
Thank you very much

Do you have any better photos of the plate itself?

From the photo it looks to be European. They had a different plate than the US models. Probably Edison Bell ?

This is an Edison-Bell tag, and it is correct! I have seen 2 or 3 of these, and own 1. These were just exported to England where the other tag was attached. I also have a Model A GEM that has the Edison-Bell ID tag on it.

Mike Sorter
Riverside, CA

I asked the owner for a better picture. As soon as I have it I'll post it here.

If its the case of an european machine (edison bell), what about the value? Is higher/lower valuable or rare than an american one?

Thanks!

In my opinion it adds interest to the machine, but not necessarily more value. That looks like a nice 2 clip standard (which is American made) with a 2/4 min attachment added. It has an updated C reproducer, instead of an automatic reproducer. I can't recall seeing the crank or the lid. An original crank, for this machine, is harder to come by, if missing, and often the lids are cracked on suitcase standards. These factors can affect the value. I happen to like these early standards, and have a number of different types and varieties--2 clip, 4 clip, Banner A, Model F, etc.

Happy collecting!

Mike

Indeed one of those euro machines. Here is mine.

Thank you all for the answers! Good to know!

I also noticed that the serial number is only present on the bedplate but not on the "vertical" metal with the Edison logo (sorry, I don't know how to say it in english) - see attached picture.

Is it again due to the fact that this machine was sold in UK?

The 2 clip machines did not start out with the serial number on the knife edge. That was a feature that came along closer to 1900 with the advent of the 4 clip machines. You might want to check out this article:

https://www.antiquephono.org/#/collectiondetails/79

Best Regards,

Martin