Amberola VIII

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MODEL:  Edison Amberola VIII
SERIAL #:   2419
YEARS MADE:   October 1913-December 1914
COST:   $45.00
CASE/CABINET SIZE:  16 1/4" deep x 13 1/2" wide x 16" tall.  Depth and width measurements include base.
REPRODUCER:   Diamond B
MOTOR:   Fireside B   
REPRODUCTION PARTS:   None
CURRENT VALUE:   ?
INTERESTING FACTS :  

 

Here's another example of a machine that isn't terribly scarce, but it's a cute little wedding cake in very nice condition.

 

I bought this at the 2012 Union show, and probably paid more than market value at the time (to say nothing of now).  Still, it was Sunday and we were preparing to head back to New York State.  I had bought next to nothing at the show, and you all know that feeling...  You drive 11-12 hours to get there, spend three days looking around, and you're going home with NOTHING?

 

Well, I've always had a thing for the Edison "faux-grain period" of ca. 1910-1914.  The A-series Disc Phonographs and several of the early Amberolas feature that wonderful grain-painting that seems simultaneously amusing and masterful.  This little Amberola VIII was still sitting in a booth at the end of the show, and I suspect its price had discouraged other interested parties.  I thought I might have a chance at getting a better figure at that point in the show.  The dealer wasn't sharing my optimism, but as I stared at the thing I decided that I needn't add another "I should have bought that..." to my already lengthy list.  I'm glad for that decision.

 

This is original finish.

 

Two faux-grained metal grilles (is that rear one a grille?) and a grained horn rising above it all like an oak swan.

 

 

 

Now, you might that this grille has been repainted.  Believe me, although it looks perfect, it's only "pristine."  In strong light you can see a few signs of age.