The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

Well, at least the Seller is using FedEx Economy shipping........for almost $500!

It is amazing what people want to get. On top of that who in their right mind would spend that much on ebay on a product they can't inspect.

"His Marter's Voice" indeed. Doesn't he know it's spelled "Martyr"?

Does anybody recognize the machine as genuine? Handsome, but I am not up on HMVs.

Clay

FloridaClay wrote:Does anybody recognize the machine as genuine? Handsome, but I am not up on HMVs.

Clay

The metal parts sure do look like genuine Victor manufacture, and not from a suitcase portable either. However, replica wooden horns are being made, and the cabinet is anyone's guess.

I'm not definately saying it's not original, but I have my doubts on one or two issues. If the seller reckons this was made between 1915 and 1920, then the soundbox is not original, as the No.2 was not introduced until 1921. This may be nit-picking on my part, however. The horn elbow also looks to be a sloppy fit into the back bracket. But the main thing would concern me is the quality of the carving, especially round the sunken trade mark on the front panel. Would HMV have ever allowed those wonky edges? Hmm......

Barry

If you look at the wood inside the box it liiks to new.
It is a beutfull job. I think it is a Victrola convershion.
If it was real I think it would be worth more than a 6.

I agree with Barry on the No. 2 reproducer. Also, the crank, crank placement, speed control all look like Victrola parts, not high end Vic VI type parts that were from that wooden horn era. However, I do believe that it is one of a kind.

The inside of the case looks like brand new unfinished wood. As for the finish, orange shellac will produce that look and the decals aren't hard to reproduce and age.

I saw a brand new Victor VI cabinet, with the correct looking gold plated fittings and a great looking unfinished mahogany cabinet that was made in South America at a recent phono show. In fact, if you search eBay, you will find a guy who deals in them, along with repro wooden horns...

To me it looks like a fantasy machine, or you might call it a high end crapophone. I believe that I could make that cabinet in my garage or at least come close. Just my opinion... what do I know???

Here is a pic of a high end Victor VI from supposedly the same era as this Spanish one. Notice the crank placement is toward the front of the case - not the rear, like a Victrola.
http://www.collectorsworldinc.com/image ... 6%20rt.jpg