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Back in November I made what for me was an unusual posting. It involved finding a rare Zonophone D in unrestored condition.
This post also involves a Zonophone: not nearly as rare, but with charms of its own. A local dealer called me a couple of days ago to let me know he had a phonograph that might interest me. He said it was a Zonophone and it was all there but "the metal part where the needle screws in." I figured he meant the sound box was gone. I also expected the machine would be one the later inexpensive rear-mount Zonos that wouldn't be as interesting to me. Still, we collectors are happy for anything early that comes our way - right?
This morning as the dealer was opening up, I was there. Much to my surprise, the machine is what I believe is a Zonophone Concert from 1903-04, using up the last of the old style arms and horns. I've never been particularly drawn to these transitional models, as the cabinets seem too large for the horns. Still, they don't turn up very often, and this one was indeed all there - except for the needle bar on the V Concert sound box. Good, original turntable felt. Nice cabinet finish and decals. Everything untouched and dirty. And to say that the price was reasonable is an understatement. Embarrassingly reasonable - I couldn't quibble.
Which brings me to my point, again. The stuff continues to surface. Don't give up. We may be living in a Golden Age. I haven't seen this much turning up in years.
George P.
