The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

Here is a picture of a Model C Gem. Instead of the right, front corner having the scroll work corner decoration, it's simply squared off, with no decoration at all. First, I've seen this before, but don't recall if it was on a Model C, or D, or E. My Models C & D are not like that, (has the scroll decoration). Second question: WHY? What is the purpose of omitting the scroll? I realize any answer may just be speculation, but there's a lot of smart folks here, so... Has this been discussed before?

Jerry,

In the article on Edison Gems which appeared in the June 2023 issue of the APS magazine, three different striping designs were shown for the Model C Gem. It was pointed out that the Model C Gem is unique in that regard. The different designs were likely chronological, with late-production Model Cs using the same design as the Model Ds. The earliest Model C Gems had simple pinstriping like the Model B Gem.

George P.

phonogfp wrote: Sat Feb 07, 2026 9:04 am Jerry,

In the article on Edison Gems which appeared in the June 2023 issue of the APS magazine, three different striping designs were shown for the Model C Gem. It was pointed out that the Model C Gem is unique in that regard. The different designs were likely chronological, with late-production Model Cs using the same design as the Model Ds. The earliest Model C Gems had simple pinstriping like the Model B Gem.

George P.

George,

Thank you. I was hoping for your input. I feel dumb for not looking at that issue of the magazine, which I have and have referred to often. My guess is that the scroll was skipped due to that area being a natural one to place one's left thumb while cranking with the right hand. Doing so would perhaps wear away the scroll, making things ugly. If it was added later, then I suppose style won out over practicality. Again... my guess.

Looks like an interesting oddity to me. I'm away from home at the moment but I can't wait to look at my C Gem.

Jerry B.

JerryVan wrote: Sat Feb 07, 2026 9:19 am My guess is that the scroll was skipped due to that area being a natural one to place one's left thumb while cranking with the right hand. Doing so would perhaps wear away the scroll, making things ugly. If it was added later, then I suppose style won out over practicality. Again... my guess.

Your guess is certainly as good as any!

George P.

This is the Gem C that I sold a few years ago.