Classic cars forum & vehicle restoration.

[Rick]

Does anyone have any advice on what to look out for, when looking for a wind-up gramophone?? I fancy the idea of playing 78s on a proper old machine, preferably with the large brass horn. I'm told there are repro ones around but I don't much fancy one of those!

Rick
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[peter scott]

Hi Rick,

You might find some of these links useful:

http://www.vintage-radio.net/forum/showthread.php?t=31237&highlight=hmv+gramophones

http://www.vintage-radio.net/forum/showthread.php?t=29567&highlight=hmv+gramophones

http://www.vintage-radio.net/forum/showthread.php?t=18627&highlight=hmv+gramophones

http://www.vintage-radio.net/forum/showthread.php?t=18458&highlight=hmv+gramophones


If you value your 78s then it would be best to record their content on a more modern machine before playing them on a wind-up. The pressure on the needle point must be in tons/sq. in.

Peter
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https://www.nostalgiatech.co.uk
1939 SS Jaguar 2 1/2 litre saloon

[AustinAnnie]

Hi Rick,

I have a couple of gramophones and my father has several, plus a few thousand 78rpm records (mostly "light music").

You're right about the repro models (though most of them aren't strictly reproduction as there were never models made in that shape in the first place) - the worst of these are manufactured in Asia from bits the workings of old portable grams and plywood! They often say "His Masters Voice" on a transfer, but the soundbox will rarely match up with this. Beware the sellers from China who promise it's an antique - if it's Chinese, round, square or octagonal with one or twin brass horns then it's a Crapophone! Look for the posidrive screws holding the box together.... eugh!

There are some companies in the west making good quality modern gramophones, though for the money I would prefer to get a little HMV model 102 portable - looks great on picnics with the Austins!

If you'd like a bit more advice then PM me - I'm sure dad would be only too pleased to impart his knowledge (he does like a chat ). He's an Austin 10 chap too - the South West contact for the Austen Ten Drivers Club.

Oh, and bamboo needles are a godsend - far less abrasive than the metal sort.

[Rick]

Thanks to you both for the tips! I'll probably start looking around in the new year, the idea of a tiddler for camping trips is exactly what I'd like to get. The repro/new stuff sounds really bad

Ta, Rick

(PS the remains of my 10/4 can be seen here: http://www.oldclassiccar.co.uk/forum/phpbb/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=1075)
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[pigtin]

I may have posted this before. It's an idyllic picnic about four years ago on Stelling Minnis. Just behind me you can see my old HMV wind up and a record. Must try and do it again next year.


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Due to the onset of my mid eighties I'm no longer sprightly and rarely seen in my Austin special. I have written a book though. https://amzn.eu/d/7rwRRqL

[Rick]

great scene that pigtin, very civilised!

I'd not heard of bamboo needles either, a good tip!

R
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