Wind-Up Gramophone

Q&A about Talking Machines from the pre-electronic era (approx. 1885-1928).



Topic author
BERTRAM1

Wind-Up Gramophone

by BERTRAM1 » Thu Oct 11, 2007 3:10 am

I have just inherited a gramophone from my grandmothers estate. I have not tried to turn the crank or operate the machine in amy manner. The piece is a free-standing piece with carved legs and an internal horn. A metal plate on the machine reads,"National Melophonic The Master Phonograph." I know nothing of this machine or how it works but am interested puting it back in working order. I need help in identifying the manufacturer and where I can acquire parts. Any assistance is requested. Thanks.


shane
Senior Member
Posts: 314
Joined: Fri Aug 04, 2006 4:50 pm
Location: brisbane,qld.australia

Re: Wind-Up Gramophone

by shane » Thu Oct 11, 2007 4:51 am

Hi.
It sounds like it may be one of the many brands that was put together using parts imported from companies like Thorens.
You may have to unscrew the motor board, and lift the motor out, to see if there is a brand name on the motor or any numbers. Also a picture of the machine & motor might make identification a bit easier. Most brands of gramophones are basically the same to work on & repair, but parts aren't usually interchangable between brands or even models of the same brand. Even if it is working, you will still need to clean and oil the motor, and probably grease the main spring to ensure it keeps running well.
To test it, release the brake which stops the turntable spinning, then wind the handle around a few times fairly slowly, and see if the turntable revolves. That should give you some idea if the main sproing is broken.


Topic author
BERTRAM1

Re: Wind-Up Gramophone

by BERTRAM1 » Thu Oct 11, 2007 10:28 pm

Thank you for your quick response. I will try your suggestions when I return home.

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