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I was unaware that Edison had an "art case series". Both these phonographs look like they were individually crafted. I wonder where two units like this were found. I am thinking this could be an opportunity for someone! No bids so who knows how much they might bring at auction.

http://www.liveauctioneers.com/item/9833881
http://www.liveauctioneers.com/item/9833880

thanks for posting those, but would you mind in the future posting screen shots or the images themselves (uploading to the forum directly) so that they're not lost when the links go inactive, as most inevitably do?

this auction is in michigan in early october - I've never heard of the gallery/auction house before. and I don't know a whole lot about edison "art case" or special order models, but the estimates... $6000 to $8000 for the first, and $20000 to $30000 for the second, seem pretty unrealistic, especially the latter. they're also selling a C-250 in oak with a starting bid of 400 and an estimate of 800 to 1200, which seems a bit more possible.

the site describes the two art models as...

1. A rare 1915 Edison Italian model phonograph. Hand carved Walnut case with painted detail on grille from Edison's "Art Case" series. Original "Diamond Disc" reproducer was state of the art at the time and played Edison's top of the line records. Walnut case with original finish with only minor wear, missing crank coupler. Includes Reproducer box and records. 59 x 23 x 38" high. ESTIMATE $6,000-8,000

2. A rare 1913 Edison Elizabethan model phonograph, serial #1000 (this is the first machine of this model). Hand carved Oak case from Edison's "Art Case" series. This is one of the first machines produced with an electric motor and retailed for over $850.00 in 1913. Original "Diamond Disc" reproducer was state of the art at the time and played Edison's top of the line records. Hand carved Oak case with original finish with only minor wear. Includes Reproducer box and records, requires D C current for use. 60 x 23 x 45" high. ESTIMATE $20,000-30,000

I don't know about the value that generally doesn't mean a whole lot to someone who wants it. I love it but sure couldn't afford it. In fact I would like either one!

Hopefully the final sale price will become available here?

Larry

"Top of the line records" --- ????

Their dating is a bit off. I don't think either of those cabinets were offered before 1917. The art models were introduced that year I think. The company made quite an advertising splash that year.

Jim