Bidspirit auction | Polyphone Prototype or Patent Model

Polyphone Prototype or Patent Model Cyl Phonograph - This unusual machine in its hand built mahogany cabinet with an accessory drawer containing miscellaneous parts has its original finish and hardware in overall good condition with the usual wear. The top cover has several shrinkage racks as well as a few nail holes but is in otherwise good condition. See photos. The upper mech and bedplate have their original nickel plating in overall good condition with some minor surface rust, pitting and light oxidation. The carriage and mandrill move freely. Has its original winding key. The motor winds and runs, Also included are 2 original 14” L aluminum horns with 7-1/4”D bells. Both horns have their appropriate original elbows all of which are in good original condition with a few minor dings. The unusual carriage with its 2 reproducers is nicely in tact as well as all of its original knobs and levers. Throughout the years, this unusual machine has been studied by several experts who are of the opinion that this most likely prototype/patent model may been made by the Waltham Watch Company of Massachusetts. Other experts feel that the reproducers appear to have been shopped built in such a way to get around the Edison patents. The entire phonograph appears to have been hand made and is very early judging by the square top cabinet and winding key. The reproducers are very early lever style with glass diaphragms. Has a cast aluminum mandrill and a wooden pulley. The top carriage and bed plate appear to be finely hand made. The gears and the motor do not appear to be from another phonograph but unique to this machine. There appears to have been some changes made in the winding area and a damaged gear with some extra parts. Cabinet measures 16” W X 8” D X 11” T.. Most likely one of a kind. A must for a serious collector.