How do you date a music box?
According to Mr. Weiner, the method of winding is a clue to the date of a music box: if a key is used, the piece was made between 1840 and 1850; if an outside crank, between 1865 and 1870, and if a ratchet, after 1870.
What is the history of music boxes?
The music box was probably invented about 1770 in Switzerland. The earliest music boxes were small enough to be enclosed in a pocket watch, but they were gradually built in larger sizes and housed in rectangular wooden boxes.
What is the old music box called?
carillons à musique
The popular device best known today as a “music box” developed from musical snuff boxes of the 18th century and were originally called carillons à musique (French for “chimes of music”). Some of the more complex boxes also contain a tiny drum and/or bells in addition to the metal comb.
Are music boxes worth money?
Prized by collectors As with all trends of out-with-the-old, in-with-the-new, the music box got lost for a bit. However, now prized by collectors and truly appreciated for their ingenuity, elaborate mechanics and beckoning a time long by, these little masterpieces can command great prices at auction.
Can music boxes be repaired?
Cases can be repaired by any competent local woodworker. Because your music box is at heart a fine musical instrument, the integrity of the case is directly related to the volume. Sounding boards were typically made of Sitka spruce.
What is the most expensive music box?
According to Official Guinness Records, A Swiss music box made for a Persian prince in 1901 sold for £20,900 ($23,481 including buyer’s premium), at Sotheby’s, London, UK on 23 January 1985. For a complete list of 1985 records, please visit 1985 Guinness Records in United Kingdom.
How does a vintage music box work?
A music box works by rotating a metal cylinder with protruding pins that pluck the individual prongs of a steel comb. The sounds that resonate from the vibrating prongs are the notes we hear—lower notes from longer prongs and higher notes from shorter ones. Music boxes have been around since the 18th century.
When was the music box invented?
The invention of the Music Box goes back to 18 th Century. At first it was a simple toy, which was turned by hand and sounded quite wooden. Around 1930 the Music Box developed into what it is today.
How do I search for a music box?
If you just want to see every kind of music box we can offer, you may just click in “all music boxes” and have full choice. Or you can narrow your search according to the price range you are looking for.
What is inside inside a music box?
Inside is a filigree mechanical play work and the detailed designs display angels, the Holy Story, nativity scenes, scenes from everyday life and fairy tale motifs. Some workshops have specialized in the production of Music Boxes and created many masterpieces.
What kind of music boxes are there for Christmas?
Christmas Music boxes featuring christmas scenes. Angels Music boxes with angel scenes. Seasons Spring, Summer, Fall and Winter – these Music boxes are perfect for every season! Misc. Motifs Other music box scenes.