C. 1878 Mechanical Organette 2 - Spool Roller Organ, Uncommon
Item History & Price
| Reference Number: Avaluer:2839312 |
If how a piece of antique technology looks is as important to you as how it works, make sure to check out all of my auctions this week. I'm listing more than a half dozen different items that have one thing in common: they're as wonderful to behold as they are to operate. And don't forget, you can add me to your favorite seller list and Ebay will automatically send you updates when I put similar new auctions online.
Here's a beautiful, workin...g 14-note flatbed Mechanical Organette roller organ sold in the late 1870's by the Mechanical Orguinette Co. of New York. The instrument -- one of the first organettes ever made -- is crank-operated, and it comes with an original paper music roll.
With the exception of the leather drive string, the organette is original throughout, and its condition is outstanding, as you can see in the pictures. The bellows are sealed, and the notes are loud and resonant. The wood is in excellent condition, with no significant finish wear and prominent original gold decorations. All three cranks are present, and they are all in excellent condition, with no damage to the knobs or shafts. The original paper manufacturer's label is present and legible on the underside of the instrument. The small hardware appears is original throughout (including the sheet metal retaining clips) and none of it is missing or damaged.
The original paper music strip is in reasonably good condition overall, although -- with the passage of 140 years -- it's become somewhat fragile and has a few taped repairs. It can still be played, but I would suggest using it sparingly. New music strips are available online from PopMusicRolls, which stocks several dozen titles, ranging in length and price.
Organette measures approximately 27" x 15" x 8". Shipping weight approximately 25 lb.
That's about it. I will carefully prep everything for shipping and pack everything carefully and properly. I've been shipping fragile antique phonographs and wireless sets for years, and I know how to get them to you safely. Buyer prepays and includes shipping. Auction participants with no prior feedback should contact me before placing a bid.
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