Antique French HMV Monarch Junior Gramophone. France, Circa 1910

Superb antique French HMV Monarch Junior gramophone made circa 1910 and in great condition. The striking design of this device is one of its most remarkable features, though the fact that every component part and piece is original is also relevant (except for the felt that covers and protects the turntable). The gramophone works fine and sounds great the motor has been cleaned and tuned in order to guarantee a perfect performance. The design includes a solid-oak wooden box with carved moldings, showing off a lovely golden-brown color that stands out under the gorgeous French-polish finish. At one of the boxs sides we find a rectangular decal with the logo of the CIE Française du Gramophone of Paris. Years later this firm would become the French subsidiary of His Masters Voice. The decal contains the antique brand logo, a cherub sitting on a gramophone record and recording it with a feather. The decal is finely preserved and remains complete and entirely legible. On the other hand, the metal component parts that make up the mechanism (arm, elbow, crank) are also in good condition. The reproducer is an original HMV Exhibition, with the name HIS MASTERS VOICE engraved on a black background. Last but not least, the horn is an imposing piece; made of metal, it is a morning glory design with a black-enameled finish. Gorgeous and original, this antique HMV Monarch Junior gramophone is bound to be the starring piece of the most elegant living room or study. Measurements: Horn : 24 inches wide (60 cm) and 30 inches long (75 cm). Case: 12.8 x 12.8 inches base (32 x 32 cms) and 11.2 inches height (28 cms).History of His Masters VoiceInside the cover we find the famous brand logo with the inscription HIS MASTERS VOICE clearly printed in golden lettering. The brand was created in 1899 from a picture by Francis Barraud depicting the dog Nipper listening to his dead owners voice coming from a phonograph. The Gramophone Company bought the picture, but before they told Barraud to change the phonograph for a gramophone of their own. The rest is history: the image became worldly famous and the firm eventually changed its company name for the brand name. The Gramophone Company, based in the United Kingdom, was one of the early recording companies. The company was merged with the Columbia Graphophone Company in 1931 to form Electric and Musical Industries Limited (EMI).