The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

May I impose on an owner of a Victor Orthophonic Horn Model (used by dealers to demonstrate to customers) to show the back of their example? The method of securing mine (shown below) is broken and missing. I'd like to replicate the original design if possible. Thanks in advance - -

George P.

George,

You have a nice example of the Orthophonic model, since it is two pieces more often than not the rear removable part is missing. I’ve had several of these and none had a means to secure the rear part. It just rests on the two wooden cleats on the inside bottom of the main part of the horn. It would be convenient to have some sort of fastener but I have not seen it. Although no fasteners appear in this VoV announcement perhaps there are variants. I’d be interested to see information from other collectors.

Here is the announcement in the Voice of the Victor.

Mark

My display did not have the back part at all. There was no sign of anything to "latch " a back in place either. Mark L. kindly assisted me by loaning me his back part. I reproduced a new wood part and cast the metal part to complete my display. I also had several others show me their displays, both complete and not. I did see one example using two metal hooks type of latch affair but it was probably added by a dealer. I have also seen the edges of a back felted to hold it on more securely. In fact if you look at mine I put a small triangle of thin felt on each side to help hold it in place. So as Mark says they were just to meant to sit on the cleats.

Well, I must admit that it didn't occur to me that no method was originally provided to secure the pieces together. That would explain the two variations I've seen! Thanks, Mark and Carlton - - this is very helpful.

George P.