1904 HMV New Style Nº4

19/08/2025

Price 1750€ + shipping

French "Berliner" Gramophone, 1904 – The Dawn of a New Era

This exceptional French "Berliner" gramophone, manufactured in 1904, marks a pivotal moment in the history of The Gramophone Company (which, from 1909 onwards, would become His Master's Voice). It embodies the transition between the original "Berliner" models designed by Eldridge Johnson and the celebrated Monarch series, which propelled the company to worldwide renown.

With this model, the firm abandoned the 7-inch turntable in favor of a 10-inch one, aligning itself with the new disc format that was becoming the standard of the era. The cabinet was also redesigned, presenting more refined lines and a distinctly more attractive appearance.

This particular example is notable for featuring a horn slightly larger than the standard one originally supplied. It was most likely sold with the horn from the Monarch II, either due to a stock shortage or as an upgrade offered over the catalogue version.

The following restoration work has been carried out in our workshop:

  • Replacement of the leather elbow, which was beyond preservation due to advanced deterioration.

  • Adjustment and fine-tuning of the motor.

  • Restoration of the soundbox, including replacement of the stylus pivot, gaskets, and diaphragm.

Today, the gramophone is in perfect working order, delivering a sound that is strikingly powerful and clear for a reproducer of its kind.

A historical piece of great elegance and rarity, destined to become a centerpiece in your collection.

Should you wish to explore the possibility of adding this exceptional piece to your collection, or should you require any further information, we would be delighted to assist you at pedrofono@pedrofono.es or by telephone/WhatsApp at +34 639 19 72 08.