Yes there are collectors of wire recorders, but their value is fairly minimal. My guess is that if it is in nice cosmetic condition, and given that it includes a turntable and amplifier, if you offered it via an internet auction it might bring $50 to $125.
The database of antique radio auctions at Antique Radio Classified, which I can search as a subscriber, lists about 8 or 9 sales of wire recorders in unspecified condition, with the sale prices ranging from $10 to $60. Those were all in-person auctions.
Air King was primarily a manufacturer of radios, during the 1930's and 1940's. Most of the radios they made are of minimal value to collectors, e.g. $25 to $50 if in nice cosmetic condition.
However two specific plastic models they made in the early 1930's, the models 52 and 66, are considered to be innovative, historically important, and beautiful examples of industrial design. They are worth in the thousands, with one famous example selling at auction a few years ago for $51,000 (sic). A couple of other specific plastic models, the 770 and the A-600, are worth at least several hundred dollars.
The most well known manufacturer of wire recorders was Webster-Chicago, aka Webcor. I wouldn't be surprised if the recording mechanism in your unit was made by them for Air King.
If you search a bit further on Google I'm sure you'll find lots of information on the technology. This page on wire recording technology, and this page on Webster-Chicago might be interesting places to start.
Best regards,
-- Al
The database of antique radio auctions at Antique Radio Classified, which I can search as a subscriber, lists about 8 or 9 sales of wire recorders in unspecified condition, with the sale prices ranging from $10 to $60. Those were all in-person auctions.
Air King was primarily a manufacturer of radios, during the 1930's and 1940's. Most of the radios they made are of minimal value to collectors, e.g. $25 to $50 if in nice cosmetic condition.
However two specific plastic models they made in the early 1930's, the models 52 and 66, are considered to be innovative, historically important, and beautiful examples of industrial design. They are worth in the thousands, with one famous example selling at auction a few years ago for $51,000 (sic). A couple of other specific plastic models, the 770 and the A-600, are worth at least several hundred dollars.
The most well known manufacturer of wire recorders was Webster-Chicago, aka Webcor. I wouldn't be surprised if the recording mechanism in your unit was made by them for Air King.
If you search a bit further on Google I'm sure you'll find lots of information on the technology. This page on wire recording technology, and this page on Webster-Chicago might be interesting places to start.
Best regards,
-- Al