Edison standard refurbish question

[mrhultzapple]

Hello all, I recently received an Edison Standard model C as a gift from my father-n-law.  It works and is in good condition except for the rough case finish and the sound is scratchy. Does anyone have a recommendation on how much should be done to restore its value? I am currently attempting to get the sound reproducer rebuilt and purchasing a bell. Any input would be greatly appreciated.

Mark

[lucius1958]

What you have there is a Model B, from about 1905/6: the reproducer is a Model C.

I would recommend giving the motor and upper works a good cleaning and lubricating with sewing machine oil (NOT 'Three-In-One', as that gums up over time). The reproducer will most likely need new gaskets, and the stylus should be checked for wear: Wyatt Markus is a great person to go to for a rebuild.

For the case, I would first go with a general cleaning (I generally use NON-PUMICE Gojo); then see how it looks. You might be able to get by with some Howard's Feed -n-Wax; or you could try polishing it with some thinned shellac.

As for horns, reproductions of the standard-issue 14 inch horns are readily available; if you want something larger, you will need to get a horn crane to support it (and some rubber tubing to connect the horn with the reproducer). I would suggest looking at the Talking Machine Forum site, in their 'Yankee Trader' section: you can either put a want ad in, or check what sellers may have.

Good luck, and good hunting!

- BillS

[mrhultzapple]

Thanks for the information and advice Bill. After seeing some of the basket case phonograph restorations online I am fortunate mine is as complete as it is. I will get on the clean up process but have a concern with the graphics. If I decide to shellac the box is there something I should do to protect the front logo? I see there are replacement graphics available should I go ahead and replace it prior to shellac or maintain the original?
Mark

[lucius1958]

If you go VERY gently over the decal when cleaning, you should be able to avoid damaging it. Some touching up with orange shellac may tone down the spots where the base silver is showing. If worse comes to worst, Greg Cline at phonodecal.com does the best reproductions.

- BillS

[mrhultzapple]

Thanks Bill, I'll give it a shot
Mark