Item: 1899 Berliner Top Wind. Rare, American Berliner Phonograph Nice
Sold For: $4,700.00
Bids: 15
Date: Apr 19, 2012
Auction: Ebay
Seller: n18241940
Feedback: 100% (79)
Description and Image By: n18241940
Fantastic Berliner top wind phonograph with funnel style horn. This machine is in GREAT shape. The finish is awesome, aside from one patch visible on the top left corner in the picture where the turn table is removed. I havent done anything to it. I havent polished any parts, or used any products on the wood. This is a nice near original example.
What I was told when I purchased this machine was as follows: It was originally from Holyoke Mass, sold by the granddaughter of the original owner. It came without a reproducer. The horn was repainted in the original formula, asphaultum. You can see the hairline crazing on the paint job, which is the same way original paint ages. It was painted by David Teti who does great authentic work. The wire bail that supports the horn is a repro, the leather elbow is a repro. The machine is from 1899, as evidenced by its type of brake. This means its an American Berliner, the rare and more desirable version. The felt is original. The machine works well and will play a record without issue. The reproducer is missing much of its plating, and it has no serial number, however it is clearly period and not an old reproduction. I conferred with several collectors regarding the reproducer and its believed to be original, possibly even a prototype because its not stamped. Its mica is broken inside. It is missing most of its nickel, but visually presents well. As far as I am aware, everything else is original. Please ask questions. Berliners are tricky, and I know collectors want to see every detail, this is why I have tried to visually show each part. I know how to pack phonographs very well and this item will arrive without issue.