The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

I am interested in parting with my antique piece. I have it listed here, http://jacksonville.craigslist.org/atq/2346005927.html
I would like to know if anyone can supply me with a value. I am pretty sure I have it listed too high, but I didn't want to lose anything and was hoping someone would respond with a realistic value or offer. Thanks for any assistance.

that's a nice machine - I used to have the same model. but you're right about the asking price being way high. this and similar aeolians typically would sell for a tenth (or less) of your $3500 asking price.

Yes.... I have seen that type of price for these, so I am not surprised. I just want to confirm it by have others look at it as well. I wanted to make sure this was not some rare model or other feature I was not aware of. It does have one record that is the brownish hue (not black) that was also made by aeolian, as well as 10 other 78s. Not much of a selection to chose from in its day. Also they seem to be just random groups of people singing/ playing, with very little attention bestowed on the performers. Unlike todays musicians. Thanks for replying.

Also, it is not accurate to call it a "Victrola". Victrolas were only made by the Victor Talking Machine Company. Saying "Æolian Vocalian Victrola" is like saying "Ford Corvette" -- there is no such thing. Two different companies, two different products. When I see non-Victrolas described as Victrolas and unrealistic prices in listings, it raises an immediate red flag that the seller is uninformed and operating under unrealistic expectations and may therefore be difficult to deal with because they must be convinced about the reality of what they have before proceeding. Therefore, unless it is something I really want, I skip over those listings. Having said that, I do frequently send emails to sellers attempting to inform them. I do this in an honest attempt to help the person sell the item by educating them about what they have. This is sometimes a thankless job, as many resent the intrusion no matter how well-intentioned and gently it is worded. Others are grateful. My bottom line on this is that if one desires "serious buyers only", then one needs to be a serious seller -- do the research and come to grips with reality. You were wise to post this question about your Æolian Vocalion here. I wish more sellers would take that trouble, or to even simply Google what is on the data plate.

Doh!!! Thanks John, for that bit of info. I have reworded all ads with the Victrola in the description.