In a message dated 4/6/2006 1:19:58 PM Eastern Standard Time, [email protected] writes:
Copper oxidation was available on certain A machines which had certain finishes. For example the A 250 had two colors of motor boards which were offered with certain woods and certain metal finishes. I don't quite follow you here, but it sounds like you've seen a Diamond Disc machine other than the "A/B-150" with metal finished in oxidized bronze. (I'm not including the later oxidized finishes of the 1920s.) Is that what you meant? If so, is it certain that the metal parts were original to the cabinet? The original announcement and description of the Diamond Disc Phonographs in the October 1913 issue of the "Edison Phonograph Monthly" mentioned "oxydized bronze" metal parts for ONLY the "A-150." Nevertheless, I'd love to see an "A-250" (or more expensive model) with its original oxidized bronze parts! I always presumed that Frow's reference to oxidized bronze and the "A-150" was in this context - - NOT as pertaining to the Art Models. The one or two oxidized bronze DD reproducers with cast mounts that I've seen were on early "B-150" machines. I would consider those rare because of the apparently very short production of oxidized bronze parts on the "B-150." Bill mentioned that he has never seen a DD reproducer with a built-in volume control. The shaft for this volume control takes the place of the positioning pin, has a knob mounted on the end, and rotates to manipulate a felt disc within the reproducer's throat. It works like a furnace flue. One of these (in gold finish) can be seen on page 86 of "Antique Phonograph Gadgets, Gizmos, and Gimmicks." As for the oxidized finish on the "A-150" (of which I'm quite fond as you can tell!), a close-up photo can be found on page 119 of "Antique Phonograph Accessories & Contraptions." I'm obliged to you, Steve, for your perspective on why the early built-in volume control was discontinued. It makes perfect sense. The felt disc on mine had been carefully removed by a previous owner, and I always wondered why! Regards, George Paul
