Very Rare Antique Zonophone Opera Phonograph - Gramophone. USA, Circa 1905

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Very Rare Antique Zonophone Opera Phonograph - Gramophone. USA, Circa 1905

Very rare antique Zonophone model Opera phonograph or gramophone, made in USA circa 1905 and in outstanding condition and working order. This beautiful model mounts a solid oak wooden box, with the original finish and a greatly-preserved decal with the name ZON-O-PHONE in golden capital letters. There is another a decal, in very good condition too, with the brand name and the company: UNIVERSAL TALKING MACHINE MFG CO. The gramophone’s design is really gorgeous: the black metal and brass horn is supported by a fine chromed-metal element, restored at some point, which shows a wavy and elaborate design, full of elegance. The only component part which has been renewed is the leather elbow which connects the horn and the reproducer – the fragility of the material makes it impossible to preserve most originals, so they are usually replaced.

The brand Zon-O-Phone was founded in New Jersey, USA in 1898 by entrepreneur Frank Seaman to commercialize a gramophone designed by Emil Berliner and constructed by Eldridge R. Johnson. With the trace of time the association dissolved after a series of litigations. Eventually, in 1903 the brand became property of the Victor Talking Machine Co., owned by Johnson.

Exclusive and original, this very rare antique Zonophone Opera gramophone is bound to become the starring piece in any collection or room.

Dimensions: Box: Width: 13.07 in / 35.5 cm. Height: 5.90 in / 15 cm. Depth: 12.40 in / 31.5 cm. Horn: Length: 23.62 in / 60 cm. Mouth’s Width: 13.38 in / 34 cm.