All-Original 1906 Columbia Graphophone BK Cylinder Player, Looks & Works Great!

Description

A long time ago, I got a tip that an elderly gentleman in small town Downeast Maine had an interesting old phonograph in his attic, so I drove over and had a look. And this is what I found: a 1906 Columbia Graphophone model BK that had been purchased, new, by this gentleman’s grandfather in the very same town, and had never left the house; indeed, it had sat up in that same attic for well over a half century. It was covered in dust, but otherwise in remarkable condition: What you see is the original finish and decal. Indeed, I have done absolutely nothing to this machine but install a new leather drive belt, grease the motor, and dust all the exposed surfaces. It worked just perfectly the day I found it, and has continued working perfectly to this day. The original “Lyric” reproducer plays loud and clear, and the motor keeps perfect speed without wavering. The gold pinstriping on the bedplate is mostly present and quite bold in spots; the black enamel and nickle plating look very nice, as do the front and back decals. If you look closely you will see that the oak case has a notch in front for a crane base, though none was to be found in that attic; the phonograph also did not have a horn when I found it. (PLEASE NOTE: The brass witch’s hat in the last photo is for display purposes only, and is NOT included with the machine in this auction.) This machine has been one of my workhorses for many years, and has never failed me. Now, though, I’m running out of space, so it’s time to pass it along to another collector who will use and enjoy it for years to come as I have.
If you collect phonographs, you know that Columbia cylinder machines are significantly more rare than Edisons; they’re also, in my opinion, about the most attractive machines out there. Likewise, the Lyric reproducer sounds about as good on 2-minute records as any I have ever heard. This BK measures 12.5”w x 8.5”d x 12.75”h (with the lid on), and needs absolutely nothing. It is ready to display, crank up and play all day and all night. If you’ve been looking for one of these in all-original working condition but thought you might never find one, this is your lucky day; it will be a long, long time before you find another even half as nice as this one. Best of all, I offer it here with NO RESERVE – high bidder takes it!
I will ship this item ONLY within the United States. If you live elsewhere and are interested in it, please contact me before bidding so we can discuss the shipping charges, which can be very expensive outside the U.S. I ship once a week (whenever possible). Having received, over the years, some items that did not survive shipping, I always take care to pack very carefully. If you prefer, I will be happy to drop it off at a nearby UPS store and have it professionally packed and shipped at your expense. I reserve the right to raise or lower the shipping charges should they prove to be significantly different than those determined by the shipping calculator. I reserve the right to refuse sale to anyone with excessive negative feedback or an otherwise suspicious history. Payment is due within three (3) days of the auction's close. Due to its age I am selling this item without any warranty. All sales are final. I am not a dealer, and don’t have a big operation with a staff, so I would appreciate your patience while I take the time to pack your items with the care they deserve.
Be sure to see all the pictures! I'll be happy to answer any questions you may have, but please try to ask as early as possible, as it sometimes takes me a while to get to my email. Please see my other listings, as I am running out of space and am thinning out my collection considerably. I have several fine items up on Ebay right now, and will be listing many more in the weeks and months to come, so please keep checking. Good luck and happy bidding!