MMD > Archives > January 2021 > 2021.01.26 > 01Prev  Next


Fortnum and Mason Interchangeable Cylinder Box
By Darrell Clarke

G'day all, I have an opportunity to purchase a 36-tune interchangeable
cylinder music box but this is a new field for me so I would like to
find more about it if possible. My experience has been mostly with
player pianos.

The only name anywhere is the UK retailer, Fortnum and Mason, noted for
their quality goods. The only mark on the mechanism is the number 1601.
I presume it is of Swiss manufacture. The condition appears to be good
but one tooth has been repaired and it could benefit from a clean and
oil. There are a few stains on the cylinders which I hope are not
important.

I haven't heard all the tunes since it is in a shop but they sound okay
to my untrained ears. The location also made it difficult to take good
photographs but I hope they might be helpful to identify the maker and
quality of the instrument.

I would very much appreciate any information our members might be able
to offer before I take the plunge. Maker, quality, age etc.

Cheers,
Darrell Clarke,
Adelaide, South Australia
P.S.: We have just recovered from a serious bush fire near here but
nothing like the catastrophic fires a year ago.

 [   Music Box interior
 [ https://www.mmdigest.com/Attachments/21/01/26/210126_071013_36%20tune%20music%20box.jpg 
 [   Music Box tune list
 [ https://www.mmdigest.com/Attachments/21/01/26/210126_071013_tune%20list%20LQ.jpg 
 [   Music Box information sheet
 [ https://www.mmdigest.com/Attachments/21/01/26/210126_071013_MB%20info.jpg 
 [   Music Box spring motor drive
 [ https://www.mmdigest.com/Attachments/21/01/26/210126_071013_MB%20spring%20motor%20drive.jpg 


(Message sent Tue 26 Jan 2021, 07:10:13 GMT, from time zone GMT-0800.)

Key Words in Subject:  Box, Cylinder, Fortnum, Interchangeable, Mason
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