Featured Phonograph: Edison 'Suitcase' Standard

[Tinfoilphono]

MODEL:  Edison "Suitcase" Standard
SERIAL #:   393
YEARS MADE:   1898-1901
COST:   $20
CASE/CABINET SIZE:  11.5" x 8.5"
REPRODUCER:   Standard Speaker
MOTOR:   1-Spring
HORN DIMENSIONS:   Listening Tubes
REPRODUCTION PARTS:   None
INTERESTING FACTS :  Boston dealer tag

 

Edison announced the new, inexpensive "Standard" phonograph to the trade in February 1898, but deliveries were apparently not started until April. These early Standards are commonly referred to as 'Suitcase' Standards because of the simple clips to hold the lid. Alternatively, some call these "Square Top Standards," since the lid is not domed like later versions. The earliest Suitcase Standards have 2 clips, one on each side. Later ones have 4 clips, two each on front and back. 

 

This has serial number 393, from the first month or so of production. The reproducer is a Standard Speaker, with both recording and reproducing stylii. It is held in place by clips with a single screw at the ends. Later ones had two screws. These early Standards lack a cover over the gears at the left of the mandrel, leaving them open to dust and possible damage. 

 

This has a nickel-plated dealer tag on the front, from Murray, Blanchard, Young & Co. in Boston. I know of two other machines with the same tag -- another Suitcase Standard and a Suitcase Home. While most dealers placed tags more discretely, Murray, Blanchard, Young & Co. put them dead-center in the front of the cabinet. Nothing subtle about that.

 

While not a great rarity, it's a very nice example of an early Standard, which would ultimately become Edison's most popular phonograph.