The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

Similar to tonystardis' post, I've just missed this:
http://www.ebay.ca/itm/VICTROLA-portabl ... 1e6f4b91a4

From my end, I think I lost out on a good deal. The gold plating seems absolutely intact on the tonearm and reproducer.
Also, for $100 + shipping I don't think I'll come across another one like this.

Or am I just too eager to get a 2-55 and am bound to find portables for cheap? Up here in Toronto you rarely find portables that come in such immaculate condition.

I find it interesting how the hobby changes. When I started back in the olden days (early seventies), first generation collectors had very little interest in uprights including things like big Amberolas, or flat top VTLAs. Machines like table model Victrola Xs and XIs were good for their horn machine parts. Those early Victrolas sold in small numbers and then had to survive early collectors! Also, the early collectors that influenced me had little interest or respect for Columbia cylinder machines. Maybe this was due to the bias in the first books like "Tinfoil To Stereo". I was part of an early change in the hobby and took advantage of the opportunities and bought some lovely Columbia machines with stunning cabinets. I also bought great uprights like a Circassian walnut XVI and an Asian decorated Brunswick each for around $300 each.
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When I read the title of this thread about "missed out..." I was curious so I opened the post. Then I realized my second generation phono bias. I've never appreciated the suitcase portables. It's not a matter of being right or wrong. They are just something that doesn't grab my interest. The hobby changed and evolved when I wasn't looking. I've notices for quite some time that there is quite a following for portables. The portables have terrific sound and don't take up a great deal of space. If you like them buy and collect them.

Happy collecting, Jerry Blais

So far my portable collecting has been limited to a really nice Victor VV-50. I have some interest in eventually picking up one or two more, but nice portable seem so hard to find—scuffed and torn coverings, rotted leather handles, badly rusted hardware, etc. But perhaps that is understandable given that they were meant for a knock-about life.

Out of curiosity, has anyone found a firm that does good restoration work on portable cases? I thought there would likely be one, as that would be similar to restoring old luggage.

Clay

Portable phonographs are good to have around. I have two Victor portables. One is a VV-2-55 and it plays well. I have bought and sold several of these, and they are relatively common, but condition is a definite consideration. Keep looking and you will find one! (The prospects for old phonographs for sale and few in the area where I am now living, so this forum is of great help.)

Don

Thanks everyone for your replies...I'll post a wanted thread on the Yankee Trader section and see what comes of it.