The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

I just bought this German 106 portable Electrola gramophone on ebay with an Electrola 4A reproducer. The Electrola decal is missing. Based on some research this type is considered a hybrid model taking parts from the HMV 101 and 102 models, probably from late 1930's.

Does anyone know the rarity, value, and more specific time frame of this cool portable?

Thanks,

AR

Very beautiful.
You might ask in the German forum
https://grammophon-platten.de/news.php

I would say early 1930's rather than later, as the supply of obsolete 101 components would have been finite.
I had a 106R which I assume was brought to the UK by a serviceman returning after WW2. I regret selling it.

Congratiulation to this nice looking 106!
The 106 was sold in three different versions and in the colors black, blue, red and green.
It‘s quiet common in germany at least, but still be interesting in a nice color, as it is well made and sounds good. Sure not as commen in the USA.

The normal 106 was introduced in November 1934 (Source: Electrola Skizzen/ Electrola House Magazin XI.34) and replaced the 102. There were three different versions - the one which we have here, one with a Dual motor (a spring powered motor with a electric unit combined) and the same one with a second electrical reproducer to swap.

epigramophone wrote: Fri Dec 15, 2023 4:06 am I would say early 1930's rather than later, as the supply of obsolete 101 components would have been finite.

It got features of the 101 but all parts were made in Berlin at that time. The tonearm is Not identical to the one on the 101, even while he is as thin as the 101.

The 106 and 106UP were build until Summer 1941 before the war with the Sowjetunion started. I have a red 106 with the guarantee and the instructions which are dated April 41.

You‘re one is a pretty early example judging by the serial number and the „Tungstift“-needletin holder in the lid which got abandoned around 1937.
So it‘s was probably made in 1935.

Good for you it still has the Record Tray which is tough to get!
Also be very careful with the No.4a as it is made out of potmetal (the only really anoying Feature of these…)
I still should have a Decal Plate for the lid if you are interested… (Location: Germany)
Also I sell reproductions of the instructions if anyone is interested.

NEKTREG
Thanks for all of the information about the 106. The record tray and German nomenclature attracted me to getting the gramophone. It's a very cool and compact machine, and the first German gramophone I have ever purchased. I'd be interested in getting the Decal Plate. Please send me PM me to let me know if you have it.

AR

NEKTREG
I just sent you a PM.

AR