Columbia Viva Tonal tabletop gramophone, Mod 117. 1926.

Lovely Columbia Viva-tonal gramophone model 117, manufactured in 1926, 100% original, in case you are not an expert in gramophones. The most outstanding feature of this model is the front opening mechanism that opens progressively to let out more or less volume. In other words, it is a volume control. One of the first attempts to control the sound that is released into the room. The more the dampers are open, the louder it is heard, and it is really loud, as the reproducer is in a superb condition.The dimensions of the device are 50x45x32 cms. As you can see, the wood is in a magnificent condition. The case is solid hardwood, as it corresponds to one of the best gramophone houses of all times. Possibly it is mahogany or chestnut. It does not have the slightest rubbing or signs of past or present woodworm. Mechanically it works perfectly, to the thousand marvels. The motor is sturdy and quiet and in fantastic condition. The velvet on the platter is the original and inside, there is a little metal plate from the store that sold it the first time. This is something very common at that time and it is similar to what car dealers do nowadays, they put a sticker or a license plate with the dealer's data. It must be taken into account that a gramophone, at the beginning of the 20th century was one of the most important appliances in the home and continued to be so for a long time.