Is there a particular model of early old radio that is considered the Holy Grail of collecting? Something that would pretty much be recognized by any radio buff as a consummate ideal? I want to make a special xmas card for a very nice guy.
Thanks!
Maybe an early Philco Model 90. These had the classic cathedral case as well as excellent (for the time) quality audio.
Theres two choices that are popular. The big furniture radios like the Philco 90 or Zenith.
I prefer the Art Deco tabletop radios. They made some very nice ones. The Bakelite let them form interesting curved designs and colors.
http://i.ebayimg.com/00/s/MTA2MFgxNjAw/z/P2IAAOxyUrZSp8ep/$_35.JPG?set_id=880000500F
When I was younger, certain models of Atwater Kent radios were considered quite collectible. Especially the cathedral models.
I personally favor the Zenith “round dial” types. Bonus if they have magic eye tuning tubes.
There are certain models of Catalin (plastic) radios that sell for thousands. (Which means that there are a lot of fakes of those.)
the largest number of radios you will find were the most popular Philco and Zenith.
though some models of Atwater Kent are deluxe.