The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

I just made the discovery of the century on eBay! Reference item #270873688646, an old victrola. I'm including several photos of one of the most terrifying home-made creations I've ever seen. I'd talk at length, but I have to clear out my Credenza to make room for it. The seller is only starting at $100! Run to your nearest keypad and bid on this before it gets away.

I'm not sure if I should be crying or laughing or doing both!

is that what they consider the ubiquitous "french country" style?

Seeing this is of course sad, but I rather wonder if perhaps this was some poor families way of enjoying some victrola music by perhaps trying to save a some parts tossed out by the original owner. Its clearly not made to fool anyone, but simply to restore it to a degree of function. The builder may have been a music lover as well but without the ability or finances to own the real thing?

Just a thought.

Larry

Out of curiosity, where is the seller located?

It's in Stanfordville NY, a little town in Dutchess County NY in the Rhinebeck area. Actually it's comparatively close to me IF I wanted this or needed any of the parts.

So this "thing" was originally what? Looks to have the fat tone arm, which would date it c. 1917-18 or so. Also, it has only three slats in the horn opening. The speed regulator is another clue. Anybody know offhand?

Yup, it was at one point a VV-XVI (offhand, I can't recall which "style" used that odd speed indicator, though).

Sean

It was the "F" series from 1914. I'd probably snatch it up for the parts about half of what he's asking for (although I might reconsider depending on the shipping).

Zeppy wrote:It was the "F" series from 1914. I'd probably snatch it up for the parts about half of what he's asking for (although I might reconsider depending on the shipping).

If you really want it make him an offer. I can pick it up and ship it cheaper if you want to discard the wood bits. I'd charge a bit for gas though.