David Spivey's Radio Attic

	501-551-4277
Please click on the link above or send an e-mail to in order to contact me. Click on an image below for a larger view. Additional pictures of all radios available on request. Shipping is not included in prices; buyer pays shipping. Click here to learn more about: Restoration; Descriptions; Packing & Shipping; Payment; Terms of Sale.

Admiral 985-6Y Mini Tombstone (1937)
This early Pre-War Admiral tombstone was designed with a three-way position, beautiful ivory Plaskon cabinet. It can be placed either on its left side, right side, or upright. The cabinet is made of ivory Plaskon with a striking chrome grille, two matching bullet knobs and a separate complete Plaskon back. The case and the back are in mint condition, with no cracks or stress lines, which is very rare in this particular 80+ year old radio. The chassis has been fully restored and is playing with a full rich sound and excellent reception using just a short antenna wire. It has five tubes plus a power transformer. It's a very uncommon set and is quite heavy for only being 10"H x 7"W x 6"D. The set also retains its original speaker grille cloth. This Continental Radio set was sold by other radio retailers under the Truetone and Mantola brands. A great example of this rare model. $289.00. (1150712)

Crosley D-25-CE "Dashboard" (1953)
This Crosley Retro clock radio icon from the 1950's is in really nice condition. There are no cracks, chips or cosmetic issues other than two small paint chips. Anyone who is familiar with these particular sets knows that the metal clock and radio escutcheons almost always show major tarnish wear from over 60 years of use. Both escutcheons on this set are in really nice shape. The lime green color coordinated clock knobs are on the radio, and the original back also. The clock is working, keeping good time. And the radio is working and playing clearly, picking up all my local AM stations. If you are looking for a super nice D-25 in a great color, look no further. I will include a copy of the original operating instructions for the radio. About 13"W x 7-1/2"H x 7"D. $185.00. (1150752)

Detrola 302 "Teardrop" (1939)
This 1939 Detrola is one of the most collectable and uniquely designed radios ever made. And this set is just about as close to perfect and in its original condition as you are likely to ever find. It has its original Sessions clock in working order. Many of these sets have replacement clocks. It also has its original back, label, grille cloth and knobs. The backs on these sets are usually torn or missing. The beautiful walnut case is in beautiful original condition with striking handcrafted inlays. There are no cracks or splits in the veneer. The chassis is also in great condition, and the radio is playing well picking up all my local AM stations clearly. It originally sold for $24.95. A really super unique looking Detrola. About 10"W x 10"H x 5"D. $498.00. (1150744)

Sonora WAU-243 (1939)
A classic Machine Age designed radio from 1939. The case is in excellent condition, with no cosmetic damage, just a few minor paint chips. The radio has been recapped and is playing well, tuning all my local AM stations clearly. The original push buttons are in great condition. The dial lamp shines up thru the large maroon top dial, indicating the station position. No other radio was ever designed quite like this Sonora. Here is the description from a Sonora sales brochure: "Sonora's special knack for quality and heads-up creative styling is dramatized in this beautiful model. You'll get a listening-lift and everlasting pleasure from that famous 'Clear as a Bell' tone. And you'll marvel at the tuning ease of this sensitive performer by fingertip touch of the smooth giant rotor dial." This model WAU-243 is an AC-DC superhet ivory Bakelite table model that sold for $29.75. It tunes the complete standard broadcast band from 535 to 1720 KC. It has a built-in "Sonorascope" loop antenna, so that no aerial or ground is needed, a 5-inch dynamic speaker, and an automatic volume control." About 10-1/2"W x 6-1/2"H x 6-1/2"D. $279.00. (1150706)

Zenith 6-D-615 (1942)
This 1942 Zenith model 6D615 is one of the classic pre-WWII Zenith designs before the company converted to wartime production. This set was designed by Robert Budlong, Zenith's most prolific radio designer during this period. This Budlong design is known to collectors as the "Darth Vader radio" for obvious reasons. It has an undamaged Bakelite case with four caramel colored push buttons and matching knobs. A boomerang-styled dial and gold dial pointer give this set instant appeal. There are no cosmetic issues like cracks, chips or hairline cracks. This six-tube chassis has been checked, and the set plays clearly picking up all my local AM stations during the day, and many distant stations at night with an internal loop antenna. The radio has twin dial lamps, and a perfect replacement back. "Zenith! The Quality Goes In Before the Name Goes On!" About 12"W x 8"H x 7"D. $198.00. (1150750)

Bendix 526C Catalin (1946)
Did Santa not stop at your house? I think he might have left your present with me to send to you, this beautiful and exceptionally fine Bendix Catalin radio. This Bendix model was presented to a group of distributors at a showing in New York City in late 1945. After military production during WWII, this was the company's entrance into domestic production. The design and styling was attributed to James Franklin Glover, who applied for and held the patent. It was Bendix's only Catalin radio they produced. The case is actually four pieces, with the top and sides reflecting beautiful marbleized Jadeite green with gold swirling. The color and marbleizing on this particular case is outstanding. And even the original knobs reflect the striking Catalin case colors. The case is in excellent condition with no cosmetic issues like cracks, chips or heat burns. The chassis is playing clearly picking up all my local AM stations with no problems. The dial lamp is also working, and most of the original label is on the bottom. This is a great example of a very affordable Catalin radio. About 11"W x 7"H x 6"D. $575.00. (1150747)

Crosley E-15 BE "Buick Front" (1953)
This is a beautiful completely original dark blue 1953 Retro Crosley radio with a design which is reflective of classic 1950's automotive styling. The case is in excellent condition, without any cracks, chips or breaks. The radio is also playing fine, picking up all my local AM stations clearly, and even distant stations at night. The chassis has been completely checked by a professional, so it should perform well for many months to come. These radios usually have very tarnished metal trim pieces, but the brassy metal trim pieces on this set are in excellent condition, the best I have seen on this model in 25 years of collecting. This is an excellent example of a radio that is an icon of the early 1950's, in a dark blue original color you don't see very often. It originally sold for $39.95. About 12"W x 7"H x 7"D. $198.00. (1150748)

Emerson 642-A (1949)
This Plaskon Emerson model 642-A radio has a stand-out dial that looks much older than 1949. A beautiful blue/teal green colored dial, and red clown nose dial pointer, really a great contrast. This model is fairly hard to find in ivory Plaskon, and is in like new condition, no cracks or other cosmetic issues, just like it just came off the dealer's shelf. It has its original knobs, spring loaded handle, and a perfect undamaged original back. The chassis has been gone over, and everything that needed replacing was done. The radio is playing nicely, picking up all my local AM stations, and many more at night. I have seen several of these models, and this is the best I have ever seen, hands down. About 11"W x 7"H x 6"D. $124.00. (1150751)

Emerson 868 "Miracle Wand" Portable (1957)
Straight out of the Jetsons, one of the earliest transistor portables, a maroon and tan Retro Emerson portable in really great condition. This is a battery set that operates and plays using an easily obtainable 9v battery, and it plays fine, picking up all my local AM stations clearly. Great color combination, and no major damage like cracks, chips or other cosmetic issues. This will be a real standout in any collection. Take it to the pool next summer. About 10"W x 10"H (to top on Wand) x 3"D. $124.00. (1150749)

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Restoration philosophy

My restoration philosophy is to leave these classic radios in their original condition as much as possible. I hate refinishing or repainting a set unless it's absolutely necessary. When this is necessary, I use a professional person for refinishing & repainting. Over many years, I have attempted to acquire the best original undamaged examples of all models I could find. They have been restored to playing condition unless noted. Any repairs that have been made, and any cosmetic flaws associated with the radio, are completely disclosed. Keep in mind that these radios are 60+ years old, and, consequently, are not meant to played all the time. We all love for these radios to play, but we also recognize that they should not be played all the time.

Warranty information

All radios are tested to make sure they are playing prior to shipping. A lot of jostling in shipping can make tubes loose and connections become unconnected. These are some of the unforeseen results associated with shipping. I have no control over how the shipper treats the package. If you purchase a radio and it is not working and playing when you receive it, I will offer several suggestions to help it work. If those suggestions don't solve the problem, you are welcome to ship it back to me for any repairs that are necessary. The radio will be shipped back to you at my expense, or your purchase price will be completely refunded if the set can't be repaired.

Conditions for return

I want you happy with any radio you purchase from me. If you're not completely satisfied after receiving the radio, all you have to do is send it back in the same condition as shipped, and I will be happy to return your purchase price. No sale is complete until you are satisfied.

Shipping

Anyone who has bought a radio over the past years can relate many horror stories about opening a box, and finding a cracked and busted radio inside. I have experienced this, and consequently I do everything possible to prevent this from happening to you. A seller really only has three choices for shipping. I have had the most success using FedEx Ground. My packing procedure is to wrap the radio in a foam pad (like a mattress pad), wrap that in large bubble wrap, lay the wrapped set on a thick layer of styro peanuts, and surround the package in the box with thick brown packing paper to make sure it's stabilized in the box. Then top off with a layer of peanuts. Another secret to safe shipping is to use a box much larger than the radio so there is plenty of room for protection. When you cram a radio in a box about the same size as the radio (to save on shipping), you are asking for trouble. Many people double box radios for shipping. I have found that if a radio is packed properly, single boxing is adequate and very safe. All radios are insured and tracking information sent to the buyer.

<<-- David's Radio Attic Testimonials -->

David, the radio was delivered today & was in excellent condition. Great packing job!
Received the radio this morning. Excellent packaging, excellent cabinet, and excellent playing!
Thanks for a great packing job, David. She's a beaut and looks even better than in her pictures!!
Thanks so much. The Crosley radio arrived in the most "damage-proof" packaging known to man! Great job!
The best packing job I've ever seen! You should start a business instructing shippers how to properly pack a box! Thanks David for being so easy to work with.
I just wanted to let you know Crosley Dashboard arrived safe and sound. The packaging was outstanding. Thanks for the radio. It is beautiful, it is better than expected. Radio is everything you said it was and more.
I received the Zenith today and I'm impressed. Everything from dealing with you, the packaging, along with its looks and the way it plays were more than I expected. Thank You.
Got the Emerson U5A in great shape. What a beauty! Thank you.
David. I received the Bendix today and must say I am very pleased. Thanks much for a speedy and safe delivery.
The Motorola radio arrived in good shape yesterday. Thanks again!
The radio arrived today in Australia. Super well packed. Looks great and plays nice and clear!
Hi David! Just a quick note to say I got the radio this past Saturday and it arrived in perfect condition thanks to your careful packaging. I love the radio!
David, the Zenith arrived safe and sound. Looks and works great! Thanks!
Hi David - the Crosley got here safe and sound. Unpacked it today - it's so beautiful - thanks so much for taking such good care of it.
Received the radio. Well packaged, great Housing, plays great. Thanks.
Got the zenith and etching, all is well, no damage and the little gem sounds great, picking up all my local stations with no annoying filter hum. Once again, thanks for your help with my collection.
They arrived today, right on time, and powered up and played just fine! Great radios, thank you!
The Zenith arrived today in Finland, it�s in awesome condition. Like a new one. Thank you again for your perfect packing job. You are still the best!
The Philco radio got here today in excellent condition. We unpacked, set the clock and turned it on. We will enjoy this radio for many years! Thank you!
Received the Philco clock radio and it is lovely. Thank you very much for your courtesy and cooperation.
I got the Zenith yesterday, I opened it today and plugged it in. What a beautiful radio. It couldn�t be any more perfect. Thank you very much!
Thanks so much! The radio arrived in great shape and looks beautiful.
Awesome Crosley. Awesome! Very excited to get a great restore. I will be watching your page for more radios.
The Motorola looks beautiful without a scratch on it thanks to your extremely perfected packaging technique. On top of that, it sounds great. Tonight I picked up 14 stations.
The Admiral arrived today, it's an amazing radio. Thanks for the excellent packing job, material of the radio looks very fragile.
David, The radio arrived yesterday , I love it! You did a Great Job!
The FADA arrived safely this morning. It far exceeds my expectations! The photo on Attic does not do it credit. It is lovely. The packing is superb as well.
The Philco arrived yesterday in great condition due to your superior packing. Thank you so much!
Radio arrived today in Australia, and I am VERY pleased with my purchase!!! Plugged it in, switched it on and it plays magnificently - very clear and plenty of volume. Also my thanks on the packing - excellent wrapping and packing of the radio.
She's a beauty David, playing an oldies station now. Thanks for the great packing job.
The restoration is fabulous, and it plays just as well. The packaging is first rate. This is one of the best-packed radios I have ever received.
I received the little red RCA today. Thank you for doing such a great job of packing. The radio receives as good as it looks....GREAT! It is playing loud and clear.
Hi David, The 2 radios arrived yesterday in good shape. They are beautiful! Thank you very much.
The radio arrived today and I love it! it's so cool, and about the way you packaged the radio, very neat and well done! you know what you're doing
Hi David. Just to let you know that my FADA has arrived safely in Australia, and is working well. I am listening to it as write this email.
Hi, David the radio plays great and we love it here, picks up all the stations, nice tone. Thanks for selling these!
The radio is at home in Spain. It is in PERFECT CONDITION, clearly thanks to the SPECIAL CARE you have taken when packing it, and it is VERY NICE and WORKS VERY WELL.
David, just wanted to let you know the radio arrived yesterday... beautiful. Thanks for taking great care in the packaging...arrived with no issues at all.
The Philco is beyond expectations. You were also the best wrapper I have ever met.
Just to let you know that the Setchell-Carlson arrived today in Australia without a hitch and in perfect condition. It performs extremely well & clear. Thanks for packing it well & look forward to future trades!
Brilliantly packed and man does that radio play like a champ! You are the best vintage radio seller, hands down. Thank you thank you!
The radios arrived today, safe and sound - thanks for a super packing job.
Just a quick note to let you know that the radios arrived last Friday, and both look great!!
The radio arrived in good shape and working fine. I wouldn't hesitate to order another radio from you.
I purchase from you because I trust you and you are a man of your word. What you sell is true to what you say it is.
The G.E. H-510 came today in great shape!!!!!!!!!!! Thanks so much, you did a good job restoring this one!!!
Prompt shipping, great packaging, excellent housing, and excellent playing radio. Thanks.
Just received the radio, what a great addition to our collection.... Thanks!
I want to thank you for your great customer care. I wish there was a place I could leave you feedback!
The radio arrived today. It looks great and plays well. Thanks for a thorough packing job.
The wood Crosley is a beauty! Thank you for the great packing and a fine radio to add to my personal collection.
Just a quick note to tell you the radios arrived last week and I got a chance to open the boxes today. I'm delighted with both, and the way they were packed. Thank you! Thank you!
Just got the Crosley!!!! BEAUTIFUL!!!!! Everything works great!!!!

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