This Magnavox 1950’s phonograph console works and sounds as good as the day it was delivered to a showroom floor. Manufactured in Ft. Wayne, IN, this cherry console, in its original condition, has an automatic (drop next one to be played) record player with 4 speeds, as well as an AM / FM Stereo which dials in digital stations with an old-style dial indicator. The component, in good physical condition, uses tubes, which need to warm up to achieve optimum sound from the two side speakers enclosed in the component and a phonographic needle for playing records.
This Gold Seal Model, known for dependability, was backed with a 12-months service & parts warranty (long before modern US quality initiatives). This component, “Instrument” model number 1ST626R, with serial number 1644763 measures 37” in length, is 16” wide, and 26” in height. The console stands on four legs and weighs over 100 pounds.
The uniqueness of this item is enhanced by the original Magnavox Gold Seal Certificate of Warranty (dealer and customer information never recorded); original Factory Inspection Card (punch card initialed indicating dealer Final Acceptance); original Magnavox Warranty Registration (punch card never completed); the Magnavox Gold Seal Model tag attached to the external console for showroom display; and Set-up Instructions for the record player; which are all kept in the Installation & Operating instructions envelope which were included in the console at initial purchase (believed to have occurred no earlier than 1958).
My father purchased this console from a family in Purvis, MS. This family were the original owners and sold the console preparing to transition to assisted living. I am unsure of the exact year my dad made this purchase, but certain it was in the late 1980’s. My father gave it to me in June 1993 as a wedding gift; with Magnavox outlasting the marriage.
