Need to know a bit more?

What does it cost? A logical question but impossible to answer.

Why? Because every job is different. Say you drive an old car and it needs to have its engine fixed. You call the mechanic and he needs certain information before he can even give you a guesstimate as to cost. He needs to know the make, model, age, condition and a bit about the problem that he has to sort out. It is the same with mechanical music: there are a LOT of different makes, models and technologies out there and all have their own problems and solutions. If you need an estimate then please EMAIL a photo or two to me.

What parts are available?

Generally for Edison, Columbia and HMV (Victor in the USA) most parts are able to be obtained either as originals or reproduction. Many other makes are extremely difficult to get on with when it comes to sourcing parts. For European made machines the available parts are generally just mainsprings. A Swiss or German motor with a stripped gear is often not able to be fixed as it is too expensive to set up and make a small number of these parts. IF there is one on the shelf then the motor can be saved otherwise…

How long does a repair take?

That depends on parts (if they have to be sourced overseas then that is very slow these days) and the work that is required. Cabinet repairs and repolishing jobs tend to take a long time as the techniques used are inherently slow and time-consuming. If it is a simple HMV 101 portable that needs a service then it can be turned around in a week if need be.

Is my gramophone worth fixing?

That is up to you to decide. Sentimentality can often be very important when it comes to Grandma’s Edison but if you are looking purely to have a machine fixed in order to sell it at a profit then you need to look carefully at the costs. If I think that something is not worth fixing then I will give you the honest answer.

I have been told that my gramophone is an Indian fake - how can I be sure?

Simple: look at this website - https://oldcrank.com/articles/crapophone/Introduction.html or do a search for the word “crapophone”

Is an Indian fake repairable?

Yes but generally it is not economically smart. They were poorly made when new and are aways crude in the design. Think carefully!

My portable gramophone needs new leatherette covering - can this be done?

Yes but it is not a cheap process as it takes a very long time to do.

Do you have machines for sale that are not on this website?

Yes. I often sell machines before I have had time to photograph them for the website. If you are wanting something in particular then just ask as I may have one completed or nearly completed already.