The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

This is a question that I personally have found to be of great benefit to my collection. Some of you may remember the incident that happened to me about ten years ago. However, for the "newbies" and because it has just happened to me again......I thought I would share how important one simple question can make a world of difference.
Tens years ago I went to see a collection to buy. After a short time I realized there was nothing worth buying at all. Depressed I had wasted time,etc I headed for the door. As I walked out I turned around and asked "do you have any parts??" and to my surprise the man said he had a some reproducers. He went and pulled out a small drawer from a cabinet and as I looked inside, I could see a lot of beat up Vics, Columbia's and European reproducers. ALL in very bad condition. However, I also noticed a black Victor reproducer case. I decided to pick it up and open it.......Well, after I picked myself up off the floor, I was able to make a deal on a wonderful cased Victor #10 . I felt I had learned a very valuable lesson after that.
Last week I was faced with the exact same scenario. Again I asked the question and again a reproducer came from it. I guess it just never hurts to ask even if there are no machines that interest you. So, always ask....."do you have any parts". I hope this helps some of the newer collectors .