early 78rpm 1901-2 10" CLIMAX RECORD 358 Columbia Phonograph Co brass grommet V+
$
60
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Description
Exceedingly scarce circa 1901-1902 10" CLIMAX RECORD made for Columbia Phonograph Co. These brass-grommet-spindle-hole records are the first offered through Columbia, and interestingly enough there is a "VTM" stamp in the lead out area above 3-O'Clock. Announced: "THE TALE OF THE BUMBLE BEE, SUNG BY HARRY MACDONOUGH, CLIMAX RECORDS." Record plays well around 72rpm, possibly less, but 78rpm is too fast. Record has NO scratches, and grooves look lovely with no signs of heavy grey groove damage. Plays sweetly with no blasting or distortion, even the piano retains note depth. The performance itself (Harry singing with piano acc) is really beautiful as well. For a disc from 1902-1902 era, it plays EXCEEDINGLY WELL, better than 99% of all extant discs I have observed from this era, with only expected surface noise which I think is a result of my modern turntable system having greater sensitivity to the clay/shellac composition of the record. It is a true rarity. I ABSOLUTELY DO NOT play any early records with a steel needle. I will "stick my neck out" and give it a CONSERVATIVE V+ grade, which is nearly unheard of with these early discs. I often feel that primitive records like these deserve their own grading system, as this one is near the top for its vintage. I grade "V+" by VJM standards (listed below).
-PLEASE ASK ANY QUESTIONS YOU MAY HAVE, I WILL GLADLY ASSIST-
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I audition all records COMPLETELY (and several times!) on a modern turntable with a lightweight sapphire stylus. RECORDS WILL BE PACKED PROPERLY WITH NEW PACKING MATERIALS between several sheets of cardboard, surrounded by packing peanuts, in a sturdy box.
I will gladly combine purchases to save you money on shipping. Keep bidding, and send me a message when you are done and ready for the combined invoice.
I take excellent care in packing, to assure a safe delivery. Read my feedback!
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THE VJM RECORD GRADING SYSTEM
N (78) As new and unplayed (there are virtually no 78s that can categorically be claimed to be unplayed).
N- (78) Nearly Mint, but has been played. No visible signs of wear or damage.
E+ (78) Plays like new, with very, very few signs of handling, such as tiny scuffs from being slipped in and out of jackets.
E (78) Still very shiny, near new looking, with no visible signs of wear, but a few inaudible scuffs and scratches.
E- (78) Still shiny but without the lustre of a new record, few light scratches.
V+ (78) An average condition 78 in which scuffs and general use has dulled the finish somewhat. Wear is moderate but playing is generally free from distortion. Surface noise not overly pronounced. No skips or repeat grooves.
V (78) Moderate, even wear throughout, but still very playable. Surface noise and scratches audible but not intrusive.
V- (78) Quite playable still, but distortion and heavy greying in loud passages. Music remains loud in most passages. Surface noise and scratches well below music level.
G+ (78). Grey throughout but still serviceable. Music begins to sound muffled. Heavy scratches.
G (78). Quite seriously worn and scratched, but music level is still higher than surface noise.
G- (78). Music still prominent, but wear and scratch damage extensive.
F (78). Most of music remains audible over surface noise, but listening now uncomfortable.
P (78). Unplayable.
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