posted on September 2, 2001 08:41:22 AM new
I bought a Motorola table radio Model 53R yesterday and all my web searchs come up empty. I am going to test to see if the plastic is bakelite but I am specifically looking for the year of manufacture. Anyone here know about vintage radios, and this model in particular? Thanks for your help.
posted on September 2, 2001 09:06:32 AM new
Have you looked on the back or bottom of the radio there is usually a sticker with the make model and year on it.. http://www.Dman-N-Company.com
Email [email protected]
posted on September 2, 2001 09:49:58 AM new
Thanks, dman3 and NearTheSea, for your help.
There is nothing on the bottom, but the back panel is full of information. One clue to the date is that the address for Motorola printed there is Chicago 51 Illinois. Therefore, it is pre-zip code. Unfortunately I am old enough to remember when we lived at Nashville 3 Tennessee.
I was also thinking the 53 might be the year as I was able to find one model (like a 53M) that was made in 1953.
I did the 409 bakelite test and it's a winner, so I am very excited about that! I'm back to looking for more info.
posted on September 2, 2001 10:22:14 AM new
I checked my radio Price guides and was unable to find a Mod. 53R. Most of the series 53 sets shown are from the early 50’s, which is too late for Bakelite. Further checking shows a listing for a 53C from 1939 and a 53C1 from 1954. I would surmise your 53R is from the late 30’s.
posted on September 2, 2001 11:31:23 AM new
Contact dicksmikes in San Antonio. I believe that is his ebay userid. Very expert. I have sold him lots of old radios.
posted on September 2, 2001 01:32:42 PM new
Most of the late 53x models are from 1953 - 54.
But what's the problem? If you are putting it on ebay let the bidders determine it. YOu don't have to know Everything about what you sell.
posted on September 2, 2001 05:54:33 PM new
Hi, would you kindly explain what the 409 test is? I recall one test where you rub the radio with your finger until it is warm, then quickly sniff to detect some chemical smell. Never heard of the 409 test.
posted on September 2, 2001 05:57:46 PM new
Dixiebee
That's nice that it's a bakelite radio but that in of itself doesn't necessarily make it valuable. It's also the styling. Some old radios were kind of, well, homely looking and some were ultra cool looking.
I think what collectors want is Deco and/or Machine Age styling. These are the ultra cool ones.
What's Machine Age you ask? I don't know how to describe it.
