What's up with this Columbia Q ?

[1923VictorFan]

I have found what I think is a fairly typical, later model Type Q. What interests me is the VERY ornate case? Why would a $5 Graphophone have such an ornate case? Is it all original or is that a married piece. Any ideas as to rarity or value?

[phonogfp]

Erich,

That's not a Q - it's a Type AB. Completely different machine, and far more valuable than a typical Q. In fact, the mechanism is based on the Type B - not the Q.

With all respect, this is pretty basic stuff and I strongly suggest that you invest in reference books before spending your hard-earned money on the unknown. You'll ultimately save yourself more than the price of the book, be informed when desirable machines appear, and be far better prepared for shysters. I offer this not as criticism, but as the same advice I would give to a family member or a friend, regardless of the subject.

George P.

[flashpanblue]

Hi,
This Graphophone came with two different size mandrels. The one you see in the picture to play standard size two minute wax cylinders,and another larger one that you could slip on to play the big 5 inch wax Concert cylinders. This Graphophone AB in nice condition with both mandrels would be worth around $2000. The Columbia Q on the other hand you should be able to buy for $400. Don't believe the higher prices they have been asking for commom Q's on ebay they just are not worth that much.
Pete

[fmblizz]

Erich

If you decide to bid on this piece, don't forget that you will also need a reproducer and horn..

For the time being you can live without the larger mandrel (which is available as reproduction ). Those 5 inch Concert cylinders in good shape (not mint) start @ $100.00 each if you can find them.

fmblizz

[bostonmike1]

George-----what book would you recogmend for Columbia cylinder machines?

[fmblizz]

Not wanting to answer for George but Howard Hazelcorns's book is a fantastic reference book as far as Columbia Cylinder machines are concerned.

The name of the book is Columbia Phonograph Companion Vol.#1.

I would definately concider it the bible for Columbia cylinder machines.

Blizz

[phonogfp]

Not wanting to answer for George but Howard Hazelcorns's book is a fantastic reference book as far as Columbia Cylinder machines are concerned.

The name of the book is Columbia Phonograph Companion Vol.#1.

I would definately concider it the bible for Columbia cylinder machines.

Blizz

I agree - - for the cylinder Graphophones, that's the most complete reference out there. I've seen it offered on eBay for very reasonable prices - - perhaps $20?

George P.

[bostonmike1]

THANK YOU GENTLEMEN. I AM GOING ON EBAY NOW. HOPE I CAN FIND IT!!

[phonogfp]

The cheapest I could find Hazelcorn's book just now was at Nauck's website or Amazon - - both at $38.00. I know it's been on eBay for less, but nothing's there tonight...

George P.

[JohnM]

The 5" mandrel is held in place by a knurled retaining screw, also missing.