The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

Hi all, I acquired a Silvertone phonograph recently. Bought it online and I didn't realize it's size. When it arrived, I was so shocked to see that it's so big in size and heavy. It's construction is marvellous. I'm also surprised by its volume control knob. I suppose it has a Saal 2 spring motor, but without ID plate on the motor.

I would love to know more about the phonograph. Based on the Sear 1920 catalog (found online), it appears that this is the newer Model VII in mahagony. The information online on this model is very limited. May I know if anyone has more information on it? Like it's interesting fact and manufacturing years. As it's having a mica reproducer, I suspect that it would be made latest 1925? There is no ID tag or serial number.

Thanks so much. Have attached video of it playing My Wild Irish Flower by John McCormack https://youtu.be/IPLIT8PHF9o?si=t2XFL01u8JI41Az5, hope you will find it enjoyable.

It looks like that one will clean up nicely. Congrats!!!!

Nice machine and nice choice of music.

Congratulations!

Lovely machine in lovely condition.

That is a NICE looking case!!

Hi all, Thanks for the reply! I have cleaned the case up and polished the metal tone arms and it does look very nice. 2 things which are troubling me are the springs and the reproducer. Does anyone have any trick/advice to share with respect of how to remove the springs from the barrel and reinstall them after cleaning? I saw from very limited video online that the one long spring barrel shaft connects the 2 springs by eyes/hook through the spring barrel. So I am wondering what should be the proper steps to take them apart and reassemble them back.

As for the reproducer, the gaskets have hardened. I am not sure how to take it out and replace with new gaskets. Everything seems tightly held together.

Any advice on the springs service and the gaskets replacement is very much appreciated!