Further photos of the Puck
The Puck was a brilliant invention. One day it popped into the mind of noted talking machine entrepreneur Gianni Bettini. The Puck did exactly what it was designed to do with no extra frills -- it played a cylinder phonograph record. It soon became apparent that the Puck was a virtually perfect instrument from all standpoints-- it could be inexpensively produced, sold at a reasonable price, and functioned reliably: a virtual "People's Phonograph." Many factories commenced to manufacture Pucks in Germany and France. Many Pucks were constructed on cast iron bases suggesting the shape of a harp. The horns, however, were proof of the fertility of the human mind -- the colors and subtleties of decoration were infinite. Here we have meticulously decorated a historically accurate replica horn in a color scheme consistent with what would have been available at the time. Our decoration is not only correct for the era, it's nothing short of delightful!
The horn is decorated in the "morning glory" effect --- yellow at the center blending to pale lavender to light blue, with a stunning gold surround.
The motor is primarily a clock motor. It runs the record by use of a STRING. As incredible as this may seem, it actually works. This machine, despite its modest motor, plays a 2-minute cylinder record well. Note the freshness and brightness of the mechanical components.
Pucks were made in Europe and imported into the USA. Columbia did a land-office business in Pucks affixing a "patent" license to them and selling them to clients in the USA. The remnants of this license can be here seen adhering to the mandrel.
The reproducer gives surprisingly loud and clear results. In short, the Puck is a delight. It will play one 2-minute cylinder record per complete winding, which is what it did when it was new. If you want to play A LOT of records, consider a bigger machine -- but if you want something cute and diminutive to liven up your life, get a Puck!
Price: $750.00 US, including one 2-minute cylinder record, plus s/h (NY State residents must pay tax, if applicable).
Contact: phonotim@gmail.com
Telephone: 585-582-1586
FAX: Phonophan, 585-582-2624.
US Post: Phonophan
PO Box 747
Henrietta, NY 14467 USA