Antique Zonophone Gramophone Model 25N Europe ca. 1904

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Antique Zonophone Phonograph- Gramophone Mod. 25N Europe ca. 1904

This magnificent Zonophone phonograph or gramophone model 25N, manufactured around 1904 in Europe, represents one of the most valuable milestones in the history of phonography. Zonophone, created in 1899 in New Jersey by Frank Seaman, was soon absorbed by Deutsche Grammophon AG and the Gramophone Company of London, later integrating into the HMV universe. The 25N model belongs to the first European phase of the brand, when its production was aimed at a rapidly expanding market in competition with Columbia and Victor.

The piece presented here stands out for its exceptionally rare preservation, entirely original. Its oak case displays a beautiful, sober and elegant patina, with strong lines housing the internal spring motor, in perfect working order. The conical metal horn, finished in silver with a deep red lacquered interior, is a striking visual element that enhances its presence. The sound box, signed Zonophone, ensures authenticity and transmits the warm mechanical sonority that characterized the brand in its early years. On the front of the case, the distributor’s plaque “Clark & Co. Guildford Ltd., Musical Instrument Dealers, 95 & 95A High St.” is preserved, documentary evidence of its sale in England at the beginning of the 20th century.

The sound it offers is clear and stable, a true journey through time for any lover of early music, with a very distinctive sonority. Speaking of this characteristic sound, it is worth noting that this is a 100% original collector’s piece, with the sole exception of the turntable felt. Unlike later models, it was not designed to play standard records. Its small motor was designed specifically for the duration of Zonophone and Berliner 7-inch discs, which, being among the earliest ever made, did not offer the same sound quality as later periods. Although it is possible to play 10-inch standard records with remarkable clarity, the motor does not provide sufficient running time for the entire length of a disc that size.

What adds further appeal to this specimen is the inclusion of three rare original 7-inch Zonophone discs of the period, completing the set. Made of shellac and laterally recorded, these records not only reinforce its authenticity but also contribute significant historical and collector’s value. Complete examples in this condition are extremely rare in today’s market.

This gramophone is not only a collector’s item but also a decorative icon that would look splendid in a music room or in a specialized phonography collection. An extraordinary opportunity to acquire a machine that combines history, aesthetics and function.

Measurements: Base 26.7 × 23.2 cm (10.51 × 9.13 in). Case height 18 cm (7.09 in). Horn length 38 cm (15 in). Horn diameter 14.3 cm (5.63 in).

History of Zonophone

Zonophone was founded in 1899 in New Jersey by Frank Seaman, who had previously worked with Emile Berliner distributing gramophones. After disagreements with Berliner, he decided to create his own company, partnering with engineers such as Eldridge R. Johnson, the future founder of Victor Talking Machine Co. From its beginnings, Zonophone distinguished itself by producing 7- and 10-inch discs with lateral grooves, a format more compatible than Berliner’s vertical cut.

The brand grew rapidly but soon became entangled in conflicts with Columbia and Berliner over patent issues. These lawsuits weakened its position and in 1903 Zonophone was sold in two parts: the U.S. rights passed to Victor, which used the label as a secondary line for decades, while the European rights were acquired by the Gramophone Company of London. In this context, Zonophone became a subsidiary label for more popular repertoires, integrated into the universe of Deutsche Grammophon and HMV.

Zonophone records enjoyed wide distribution in Europe, covering repertoires ranging from military marches to light opera pieces, and their technical quality helped consolidate the European phonographic industry. The brand continued releasing records well into the 20th century, although always as a dependent label. As a result, the first Zonophone gramophones produced between 1899 and 1904 are today very rare pieces, highly valued by collectors as testimony to a crucial transitional period in the history of recorded sound.