Victrola XVIII For Sale Serial
#744. Original machine with documented history:
FOR SALE: A solid, original 1915 Victrola
model VV-XVIII, serial number 744. Serial numbering at this time began
with 501, so this represents the 244th machine produced in this rare
series. Total production of the VV-XVIII comprised less than one-tenth
of one percent of total Victrola production. Original price was
$300.00, or adjusted for inflation, about $6,400.00.
The reproducer, serial number 873478, appears to be original, and has
been correctly rebuilt with new gaskets and properly adjusted. The
rubber flange is original and flat. Sound quality is excellent for this
technology. The machine is complete and functional, and is otherwise
not restored. There is typical thudding of the main springs as it runs
down (common in an unrestored motor). This condition is correctable
with proper cleaning and lubrication of the main springs. Otherwise the
motor runs strong and steady.
The finish is original. The gold-plated turntable has its original
green felt, the gold needle cup and lid are present, and the cabinet
retains its original padded castors in good condition. The rear doors
and panels are complete, and the machine comes with the two wood plugs
for the upper rear panel, that were intended to fill the original
packing crate holes. Also comes with a set of non-Victor ca. 1920
albums, documentation on the previous owner and the original gold-plated
key. All hardware is present and correct.
Some documented history on this Victrola is available. It was sold new
at Landay Bros. on 5th Avenue in Manhattan, and moved with its (probably
2nd) owner to Santa Fe, New Mexico, ca. early 1950s, where it remained
for nearly sixty years. The owner was a professional Sound Engineer,
composer and fine artist. He was a direct descendent of the family that
owned Ford's Theater in Washington, D.C., held a BA from Delph College,
a MA from Columbia, sang with the Robert Shaw Chorus, was a MENSA member
and worked for the UN. In 2009, the machine was acquired from the
estate.
Our dry climate and 7,000 ft elevation are ideal for preserving both
wood and metal. This Victrola shows its age here and there, but remains
solid and presentable for a nearly 97 year old phonograph.
Asking $2,400 or best reasonable offer. I prefer to have a prospective
buyer see and hear a machine in person if possible, so local pickup in
Santa Fe, NM is much preferred. Call 505-986-9182 or email
andy@popyrus.com for more
information and/or to request additional photos.
