The Victor-Victrola Page
CONDITION AND GRADING OVERVIEW
We are extremely critical and conservative graders of phonographs, and subsequently, our written descriptions and condtion rankings can be relied upon to make a good purchasing decision. Besides providing detailed written descriptions, we grade each phonograph on two criteria, one being originality and the other condition. Our overarching goal has always been to maintain complete integrity in the hobby, which can only be achieved by a true and accurate representation of each phonograph.
Please note that we rate "originality" as a service to the collector community, as many collectors prefer the historical significance of original (non-refinished) machines. Others who are intested in a nice showpiece for their home, may prefer the fresh appearance of a correctly restored machine. While the current market value of original machines tends to be somewhat higher than for restored machines, all our restored machines are historically authentic.
'Condition rankings' refer to the cosmetic appearance (only) of a phonograph, and will describe the presence of any defects or damage
We do not sell original or restored phonographs in poor condition, fakes, replicas, or phonographs that have been pieced together from different models. Our inventory represents some of the best examples in the country. Many machines that some dealers will classify as "mint" or "outstanding" may not even qualify for sale from our business, as they would not measure-up to the calibre of phonographs we sell.
We also use a "+" and "-" designation when appropriate to indicate a small weighting factor in the overall grade, e.g. "2+" would imply a machine that is rated higher than "2" but less than "1".
Originality: Is the phonograph original or restored?
Grade 1: Machine is 100% original. Cabinet may have been cleaned and hardware gently polished, but no replacement cabinet, hardware or trim parts have been used. Turntable felt may have been replaced. Totally original finish.
Grade 2: Machine is considered at least 75% original. Some newly manufactured (but historically correct) replacement hardware or cosmetic parts may have been used, or some touch-up of the finish may have been necessary.
Grade 3: Machine has been fully or partially restored, but restoration has have been done in a historically correct manner.
Grade 4: Machine is restored or has been overcoated with unknown materials/processes. It appears historically correct, but can't be considered an 'authentic restoration'.
Condition: What is the overall cosmetic/appearance condition of the machine? Note: All machines we sell undergo a complete mechanical rebuild and are fully warranted for mechanical performance.
Grade 1: Mint/flawless condition. This grade is reserved for the very best examples, and is very rarely used.
Grade 2: Machine shows only the slightest wear due to age or use. Many sellers would consider this grade "mint" or "exceptional" condition.
Grade 3: Machine shows some evidence of wear, but is extremely presentable in a fine collection. Minor crazing or surface defects may be present in the hardware finish. Our "Grade 3" represents what many phonograph sellers may call "excellent"
Grade 4: Machine shows typical wear and/or age effects, but is still very acceptable in general appearance, and will stand up well as a solid antique for display in any home.
Grade 5: This is a special classification reserved for rare or desirable machines that are below "Grade 4" in condition. This would be applicable for buyers looking for an unusual model in complete condition that can be left "as is", or can be restored by the purchaser.
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