Columbia Grafonola Phonograph (circa 1918–1922) – Original working piece in oak cabinet

This Columbia Grafonola gramophone, manufactured between 1918 and 1922, is an original piece that reflects one of the most significant moments in the evolution of domestic sound reproduction. Produced by the Columbia Graphophone Company, it represents the transition to a more integrated and elegant design within the home.

Unlike early gramophones with external horns, this model incorporates an internal acoustic horn, giving it a more refined and balanced aesthetic. This approach, characteristic of the Grafonola line, sought to adapt these devices to the bourgeois interiors of the early 20th century.

The item was distributed in the British market by T. Knight & Sons (Leek, England) and retains original elements such as the gold logo on the inside of the lid, the nickel-plated acoustic arm, and the manual speed regulator.

The cabinet is made of solid oak stained in a dark tone, with a well-defined natural grain and sober lines that allow it to integrate into both classic and contemporary spaces.

Operation is completely mechanical, via a side winding system, requiring no electricity. It plays 78 rpm (shellac) records, offering an authentic sound experience, true to the technology of its time. The mechanism has been checked and is working correctly.

The original box of Columbia "Brilliant" needles is included, a detail especially appreciated by collectors.

The record shown in the images is not included. Compatible original records can be found in our store.

It is recommended not to use modern vinyl records (33 or 45 rpm), as they are not compatible with this type of gramophone and could be damaged.

Beyond its functional value, it is a historical piece with great aesthetic presence, ideal for collectors, lovers of analog sound, or as a decorative element with character and authenticity.

Additional information about this gramophone:

History of the Columbia Grafonola gramophone

Columbia Grafonola gramophones represent one of the most important stages in the evolution of domestic sound in the early 20th century. Compared to models with external horns, these devices introduced a more integrated design, with an internal acoustic horn, designed to adapt to home interiors.

Manufactured by the Columbia Graphophone Company, they competed directly with Victrola models, becoming one of the most popular options in Europe and the United States during the 1910s and 1920s.

What is an antique gramophone?

A gramophone is a mechanical device designed to reproduce sound from recorded discs. Antique models, such as the Columbia Grafonola, operate without electricity using a winding system that drives an internal mechanism.

These devices were the precursors of modern record players and represent one of the first forms of home music reproduction, being highly valued today for both their historical importance and their decorative value.

How a wind-up gramophone works

The operation of a mechanical gramophone is based on a winding system that drives an internal motor. This mechanism allows the record to rotate at a constant speed, while the needle traces the groove, generating vibrations that are acoustically amplified.

Unlike modern record players, these devices do not use electricity, which gives them a unique and completely analog character.

Use and preservation of 78 rpm records

This type of gramophone is designed exclusively for 78 rpm records, also known as shellac or slate records. It is important to use appropriate needles and change them regularly to avoid record wear.

The use of modern vinyl records (33 or 45 rpm) is not recommended, as they are not compatible with this system and can be damaged.

This working antique gramophone is an authentic example of early 20th-century sound technology, ideal for both collecting and vintage decoration.

To fully enjoy this type of player, you can find original vintage 78 rpm records that are compatible, carefully selected for their historical and sonic value.