Wurlitzer Peacock

Hi All , Was at an estate sale yesterdaythere was a Wurlitzer Peacock jukebox there, the guy said it was a 1932 model but i believe it is a model 850 from 1941. It is in need of restoration for sure, it was missing the dome or bubbletop and plastic, and not sure of what else, had the tune table and all that. I was hesitant in making an offer but he wanted a $1000 for it ,probably could get it for $800. Are parts hard to get for this and would i be getting in over my head as an amateur and knowing very little about restoration and how to go about doing it ? I am just worried about losing my money and hearing my wife say i told you so. Would it be worth the time and investment in getting this even in the shape it is in ? Thanks for your help.

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Hi,

My book says that Wurlitzer's made between 1933 & 1937, are not widely collected, they are handsome, reliable & rare but they do not light up.

So the jukebox could not be 1932.
The are right in saying the 850 Peacock is 1941. This is a different breed of jukebox.

This was the tallest of all the Wurlitzers measuring 65.5 inches. It is rated as the 2nd most valuable jukebox.

At a $1000 I would snatch his hand off, but bare in mind this will be a labour of love, with many hours and bucks to bring it back to its former glory. I would have thought if you buy it you would never loose out on the deal.

Regards
Alan Hood
ami-man
UK

Hi, here is a handy link for identifying most of the big named jukebox manufacturers.

http://www.pinballrebel.com/archive/archive.htm

Just click on the green wurlitzer text. If it is the Peacock model, its a steal even at $1000. As these were only manufactured in limited numbers due to restrictions during WW2, a fully restored machine is both desirable and one of the most expensive among collectors. Be aware these machines are complicated to fix up and parts will be expensive especially any cosmetics. If you are planning to keep it yourself, I would highly recommend engaging the services of a professional restorer. At lease, invest in a service manual. Do a search for Victory Glass on the internet for repro and NOS parts. Also search for the publication Always Jukin. Its difficult to make a judgement without seeing the machine, but I would have thought you could easily double your money even if you decided to sell it for parts.

Good luck

Gary