Post by shellophone on Jun 1, 2009 18:55:35 GMT -5
This is somewhat of an enigma machine -- the only known example of a nickel-plated (not gun-metal) Amberola I-A mechanism . . . adapted for external horn use (would accept an Opera horn). The provenance of the adapter is unknown, but it is not recent. Wyatt Marcus and I have examined this mechanism thoroughly and it exhibits manufacturing characteristics of both the I-A and the Opera. Could there have been an undocumented transitional mech between the intro of the I-A and the Opera? I suspect these may have been factory built in order to use up parts. I have seen five of these hybrid I-A/Operas over the years. Comes with Model M reproducer completely restored by Steve Medved. Mandrel finish in excellent condition. Does not have a proper case, but I do have a very rough mahogany Opera case that it sits in (until a proper case came along) that I will sell for an extra $200 (it does have the copper-oxidized finish side handles and service prop). No crank, but will accept any male Amberola or DD crank thread. $2000 for mech and M reproducer. $2200 with rough Opera case. PM me for further details. Delivery to Union no problem. John M 502-410-9269
