Peter:
If you look at page 56 (figures 2-58 & 2-59) of "The Talking Machine
Compendium" (either edition) you'll see all three (actually all 5!) of the
charactistics we're looking for.
Quick explanations:
1) Open ("skeletal") or closed top casting: There is a large square opening
in the top casting beneath the feedscrew.
2) Weighted or non-weighted half-nut: Some early examples have a roughly
semispherical weight about the size of a dime mounted just forward and above
the
half-nut.
3) Presence or absence of lift lever support in front of top casting: Below
the left end of the straight-edge, some models have two little "fingers" cast
into the top frame. The lift lever - while pointed down - may be placed
between these "fingers" to suspend the stylus above the record. The same thing
is
accomplished by simply raising the lift lever, so this feature is something of
a mystery.
I hope this helps clarify; thanks Peter - -
George
