The Victor-Victrola Page
Period Victrola Models: Adam
RARITY: YYYY VALUE YYYY
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Period Victrolas
Period Victrolas were semi-custom models featuring Victor's best designs, veneers and craftsmanship. These expensive, special-order phonographs were first introduced as upright-only styles in late 1917, and were continued through 1924. Production volumes were very limited, and manufacture was totally curtailed during World War I. These machines used names of period furniture designers or styles, typically dating from the 18th and 19th centuries, along with a designator number to indicate slight variations in design. For example, the Adam Period Victrolas (named after architect James Adam) were originally sold in 6 design variations, starting with "Adam No. 0" through "Adam No. 5". The serial number (serialization for each model variation began at 501) follows the model designation. Some variations were discontinued or changed during the production run. In 1920, Victor introduced "console" style Period Victrolas as an addition to the upright Period product line, with similar nomenclature. The console models are much larger overall, with a horizontal design theme, as opposed to the vertically designed upright machines. Console models are typically designed as a "Type 500" or "501" on the dataplate. As with the standard Victrola models, Period Victrolas were produced in both hand-wound and electric (VE) versions. Prices ranged from $300 to well over $750 depending on finish and model. It is estimated that no more than 50 of each design variation (e.g. Adam No. 5) were produced for each. These are amongst the rarest and most valuable Victrolas; however, the simpler examples will not typically command top prices, as they are often very similar in design to standard production models.
Adam. The Adam models were based on the designs of the famous 18th Century architects Robert and James Adam. Many of the features are Greek or Pompeian in character, with floral inserts and painted decorations. Most were produced in a mahogany finish, although different wood inserts were used. At least 6 different variations were produced in upright designs (Adam No. 0 through Adam No. 5), ranging in price from $425.00 to $750.00. An "Adam No 0" upright is shown at right. It is unknown if this model was also produced in the console style as well.
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