Columbia Viva-Tonal Orthophonic - 810
$1400
This is the second of two large Columbia Viva-Tonal Model 810s we have listed on these pages. The Viva-Tonal was Columbia's response to the Orthophonic Victrola, and the Model 810 was the competitor to Victor's Orthophonic Credenza. Whereas Victor went for the look of a classic English Credenza, Columbia used a more modern styling, more in keeping with the furniture themes of the late 20s.

Columbia as well as Victor had secured the rights to Western Electric's electrical recording process, and the giant folded horn on these machines really boom out when mated to the improved electric records.

The Model 810 is considerably rarer than its Orthophonic Credenza counterpart. This example has average wear and tear. There is some alligatoring to the finish, some tiny nicks, some base trim molding missing (could be recut), and a chip off the frame molding, which has been partially reglued. The automatic brake is absent, but the manual brake is still in place. The backboard has been removed. It is of course not evident once the machine is pushed against the wall. I believe the machine could be spiffed up with a little cleaning and polishing and will be quite presentable, especially considering how few of these were sold. Our camera was being stubborn when I photographed this; the flash was distorting the color a little bit too dark and glossy, but it shows a little too light with the flash off. I am presenting some images with both views.

Again, this a great way to play your records of the 20s. If you're in the market for an Orthophonic Credenza you ought to consider the big Viva Tonal -- this machine could be a real sleeper. $1400
> More items from this category, Internal horn

Lynn Bilton
Box 536
Hartville, OH 44632
330-325-7866

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We buy, also.
Delivery and pickup possible in many parts of the south, midwest, and east.