Vintage 1985 Franklin Mint Johann Strauss Waltzes of Old Vienna Music Box As-Is
A substantial and beautifully made Franklin Mint musical box, issued in 1985 as “The Johann Strauss Waltzes of Old Vienna Music Box.” The case is richly finished. Ornate metal carrying handles are fitted at each end.
Opening the hinged lid reveals a glass-covered Swiss-style mechanical music box movement with a large pinned cylinder and comb, with additional interchangeable brass cylinders. The interior song card lists ten selections from the music of Johann Strauss, including “Blue Danube,” “Kiss Waltz,” “Roses from the South,” “Treasure Waltz,” “Artist’s Life,” “Vienna Life,” “Emperor Waltz,” “Wine, Women and Song,” “Voices of Spring,” and “Tales of the Vienna Woods.”
The interior plaque identifies the piece as “The Johann Strauss Waltzes of Old Vienna Music Box,” copyright 1985 The Franklin Mint, and indicates a limited production of 2,500 examples. Included are the original Certificate of Authenticity, operating instructions, Franklin Mint paperwork, and related literature. The certificate identifies the musical movement as being created by Reuge of Switzerland and notes the case as crafted with inlaid woods.
Approx. Dimensions: 16” x 6 1/2” x 4 1/4”
Weight: 7 lb 8 oz
*Condition*
Very good vintage cosmetic condition overall with light age-related surface wear, minor scratches/scuffs, and some tarnish/patina to the metal hardware and movement components. The glossy wood finish remains attractive with strong color and figuring, and the glass appears intact. Paperwork shows typical age toning, creasing, edge wear, and handling marks.
The music box mechanism is not currently operating as intended. It does not play on its own during normal operation; however, the movement will play when the gear is manually pushed/advanced with a finger. This suggests the mechanism is capable of producing music but will require adjustment, servicing, and/or repair for proper automatic operation. Might be as simple as lubrication, but we have no idea. Sold as-is for restoration or repair. Please review photos closely for exact cosmetic condition.
7l8z
1.5
10L
