Rare Vintage Midwest DD-18 Console Radio 1936 Art Deco Antique + Catalog & Tubes

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Rare Vintage Midwest DD-18 Console Radio 1936 Art Deco Antique + Catalog & Tubes:
$899.00

The radio is a Midwest DD18 console, from 1936. We also have the catalog from that year, and a printed circuit diagram. We also have a full set of tubes, of which we don’t know if they work.

Midwest was one of the best radio brands in 1936, and the DD18 was their top product. Only the model with a built-in Victrola was more expensive. The "18" stands for 18 tubes which were used for the highest technology the era had to offer. It has a double speaker system, visual assist fine tuning, 6 tuning bands, high fidelity sounds, etc. The cabinet has several wood species including walnut, claro, madrone burl, and zebra wood.

The electronics are unrestored. Last powered up 20+ years ago when it had a loud buzz -- so the electrolytic capacitors need to be replaced. I think it worked otherwise at that point. I am including photos and you will notice missing tubes. At one point I took them out, wrapped them, and put them in a box, which I still have. There should be a complete set, but condition unknown. The grille clothe is hanging a bit, but is original. I was advised by someone from the Austin antique radio club not to put the tubes in and turn it on. The capacitors need to be replaced, then it needs to be gradually turned on to avoid damaging anything.

The wood in the art-deco cabinet is all good. No delaminations on the veneer, but everything needs refinishing. No big scratches, but someone had a flower pot on the top at one point, which shows in the picture. Also, the black lacquer accent on the rounded corners is worn or chipped, as shown.

It is very restorable, although not with out work and/or money. As is it is a great conversation piece,

Local pick up only near the south side of Austin, Texas. We cannot help you load.