THE INTERMEDIATE MONARCH
The Gramophone Company, Limited was the
progenitor of all the companies in Europe which would sell talking machines
distinguished by the world famous "His Master's Voice" logo. The
currents which flowed within this network may be recognized as follows.
For instance, we may see here how the soundbox, though bearing the name of the Gramophone Co., Ltd., is clearly marked "Made in USA."
Genuine "His Master's Voice" Gramophones are extraordinary instruments. However, we legitimate businessmen have had to fight a huge influx of FAKE gramophones sold by charlatans on the Net as "refurbished gramophones from Great Britain or India." These humiliatingly shoddy imitations have the "His Master's Voice" logo illegally affixed to them --- and it has been a long, uphill struggle to educate the public about the BIG difference between these hideous modern knock-offs and the REAL THING.
Above we see the correct and original "His Master's Voice" logo -- in a perfect state of preservation after 100 years! -- and a celluloid tag from the music store that originally sold the instrument.
The condition of this machine bears special mention -- it is mind-bogglingly bright and well preserved. Apart from some "age-checking" of the mahogany finish, which at least serves to inform us this instrument is in fact a century old, all the elements are shockingly fresh. Another decal graces the side of the cabinet.
A close-up shows the designation "Intermediate Monarch." The name "Monarch" resonated both in the Americas and in Europe and the UK, and was widely exploited by the Victor-related branches worldwide.
Beneath the cabinet, the original paper label is nicely preserved.
This fascinating instrument features many interesting elements, including this rather sophisticated speed control.
Characteristic of machines sold in the UK, the back-bracket and arm, while identical to those used on American Victors, were elegantly nickel-plated.
On the horn, this lovely decal featuring the immortal image of the fox terrier "Nipper."
Superb quality ribbon-mahogany cabinet, with luscious mahogany horn -- original finish! As noted, only some age-checking of the varnish gives any impression that this machine is a century old. Where it was stored during those long years we can not say -- but you'd almost be willing to believe it popped out of a time machine! Perhaps it was once owned by H.G. Wells himself -- that would certainly explain its remarkable appearance!!
Price: $3450.00 US, plus shipping and handling. (NY State residents must pay sales tax, if applicable.)
E-mail: phonotim@gmail.com
Telephone: 585-582-1586
US Post: PHONOPHAN
PO Box 747
Henrietta, NY 14467 USA