Description
Made of wood with a fabric covering over the carrying case, and fitted with original internal metal and mechanical components, this gramophone is in EXCELLENT condition considering the age! The original crank handle is present and the maker mark, “Suprema,” is written internally. The temporary stopping mechanism is present, though the small felt brake pad is missing, which is common due to age. The unit retains ALL German military markings, including, “Wehrmacht Das Deutsche Reich” markings to the outer lid, inner lid, and record components. The record player bears German Army issue serial number “02652″. The four included original period records are all stamped “02652,” matching the issued player number, indicating they are original to this set. Feldpost Ink stamps reading, “Deutsches Reich” are also present on the records. The records are heavy period composition (pre-vinyl shellac type typical of the 1940s). The original sleeves present are those that arrived with the piece from the museum; all sleeves correspond to the player number, though it cannot be definitively stated whether the records were originally paired with these exact sleeves from issue. It is 100% mechanically functional; however, the motor would benefit from oiling or greasing, as it will play but gradually slows and eventually stops during operation. With proper lubrication it should perform correctly. The set comes with a LARGE assortment of original needles. The original key is present and remains tied to the carrying handle, as it appears to have been for decades; the locking mechanism has not been tested in order to preserve its current state. “Museum of Music” (Prague) inventory tags dated June 1947 are present on the exterior of the case and inside the player, both bearing matching inventory number “0957“. A SUPERB, COMPLETE, museum-provenance Wehrmacht field gramophone set, extremely difficult to find with matching records, original key, and documented postwar museum history. PERFECT for any collection or display!
