The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

Well, this guy who is down sizing his house, states that his Victor 3 is of Museum quality? What does that term actually mean? Museum stuff is normally original, unmolested, as in condtion. One could write a book on the topic? Cheers Markie Mark in little old New Zealand.

"Museum Quality," as in good for a static display because you'll never get it to run again.

Since museums don't normally pay for items.....I don't think they are really fussy about "quality". The bottom line with "quality" is the state of condition that a potential buyer is looking for and willing to pay for. All my machines are "museum quality" just like everyone else..... .

In the antique car hobby, "Museum Car" means doesn't run, too expensive to fix, donated for a big tax write-off.

The term "parade car" means, can't do over 5 mph, can't be trusted on the open road, run once a year. Not sure if there's a Parade Phonograph out there anywhere.

I have seen this term used quite often on different phonograph related websites, some owned by members of this forum. While most of the members here would prefer an exceptionally preserved original machine, they would not describe it as "museum quality". I have seen this used most often by highly skilled restorers to describe what they're doing with machines where the original fish is so far gone that a total overhaul is justified. They then restore the machines to a "close to new" condition, which they then call museum quality. I can see that someone not that familiar with phonograph collecting and values for original and restored machines would think that this describes the best possible condition. On the other hand we've all seen machines on eBay that are called museum quality, because they are in better condition than some 5000 year old archeologic find from a muddy dig site.
In general though I think most people mean "great condition" when they say museum quality. It takes some time to understand that great original condition is much more valuable.
Andreas

We need an expression for the "gold standard" of phono condition. I don't know if it's known all over the country but a machine that has been "Farmerized" means it was restored to perfection. Steve Farmer, who lives in Oregon, does an outstanding job of restoring phonographs and has set the benchmark for restorations. A machine that is unrestored but perfect could be called.....? (anything but the Egg McMuffin of phonos)

When the machine was described as museum quality the Victor III is in very good condition with its original finish and all original components. Some of you more knowledgeable and professional phonograph people would know more how to describe the machine. I don't pretend to have that much knowledge about the machines but have been around enough to recognize good quality. In the meantime is there anyone that would like to buy this jewel?

I have tried to send photos but being new to the form have not been successful in my efforts. Suggestions are welcomed.

Mac

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