Very Rare French HMV Gramophone Mod. 450 Lumiere. Museum. 1923

Very rare French HMV gramophone mod. 450 Lumiere in museum-like condition. This wonderful item was made in 1923 and remains in MINT condition, almost impeccable. It is quite a rare model that was not very successful in its days due to its complicated operation. Nevertheless, today these gramophones are considered high-collection pieces and are very sought after by collectors, especially if they are in such good conditions as the one we are talking about. This model was an innovative concept launched by HMV (His Masters Voice), a devide which mounted a Lumiere-type diaphragm for the generation of music (instead of the classic reproducer). Model 450 Lumiere was only produced for France and Belgium. In the images we can appreciate the superb solid-oak wooden box, made of planks mounted in different directions in order to create symmetrical diamond-type patterns. At the front we can also see a black marquetry detail that forms an elegant frame. When opened, inside the lid we can see a decal with the colorful logo of His Masters Voice in perfect condition. Differently from the usual turn-of-the-century gramophones, this model mounts gold-plated component parts (instead of chromed-metal ones). The turntable is inclined and the lid can be put in different positions to regulate the sound volume. The gorgeous diaphragm bears the brand name of the French subsidiary company, LA VOIX DE SON MAITRE, as well as the name of the diaphragm (DIAPHRAGME LUMIERE). We can also see the engraved brand logo. To the left of the turntable there is a START-STOP lever which blocks de diaphragm, but it is not very efficient (it is not very relevant as this is not a portable model). As well as for its spectacular design and look, this gramophone is also remarkable for its great working order and outstanding sound quality. This very rare HMV gramophone mod. 450 Lumiere is an exclusive piece, worthy of inclusion in the best collections or to become part of a museum dedicated to music. Measurements: Side: 22.8 in / 57 cm. Height: 15 in / 37.5 cm.History of His Masters Voice Inside 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).