Antique Pathéphone No.12 Gramophone – Phonograph. Aluminum Horn. France C. 1915

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Extraordinary Pathéphone No.12 gramophone, manufactured in France around 1915 by the prestigious Pathé company, one of the most influential firms in the history of phonography. This is one of the brand’s most luxurious and complete models, designed both for distinguished domestic use and for high-fidelity listening. This example features two original reproducers: one for conventional 78 rpm records with steel needle, and another with a permanent sapphire needle, specifically designed for vertical-cut Pathé discs. Both bear the red rooster logo, hallmark of the firm’s authenticity.

The motor, powerful and silent, has been thoroughly serviced and finely adjusted, now in perfect working condition. It allows the speed to be regulated from 78 up to nearly 100 rpm, adapting to different types of discs according to their specifications. This makes it a versatile machine, suitable for playing most antique collector’s records.

The solid walnut case, square and sturdy, is finely decorated with floral and geometric carvings on each side. The marquetry work and the carved lower molding give it a distinguished air, worthy of a high-end machine. It retains its original varnish in a warm, uniform tone, with only slight signs of use consistent with age. The turntable spins smoothly and is covered with new felt, fitted following the original design.

One of the most striking features of this gramophone is its large spiral aluminum horn, a very rare element within Pathé production. This type of horn provided greater sound power than traditional floral horns and was produced in very limited quantities. It is marked with the word "Déposé," certifying it as an original factory piece rather than a later replica.

It is important to note that the device has a defect on the arm, precisely at the base where the horn is fixed. This flaw, although common to this model, is present in this specimen and cannot be easily restored. For this reason, the selling price has been reduced by €500: it is a machine valued at €2,200 but offered at €1,700.

Replacement arms for this model occasionally appear on the market, with prices ranging between €180 and €300 depending on their condition. Should a suitable replacement be found in the future, we would contact the buyer to offer the possibility of completing the apparatus for a fully restored condition. It is solely an aesthetic detail, without affecting in any way the proper functioning of the gramophone.

The sound delivered by this gramophone is simply impressive. Full, powerful and immersive, characteristic of the Pathé reproduction system with spiral aluminum horn, which channels frequencies with astonishing clarity for a centenary machine. Playing antique records, the room fills with a warm resonance that immediately recalls Parisian salons of the Belle Époque. Each note vibrates with authenticity. Each song comes alive with a unique, almost theatrical character. It is an experience incomparable to any modern system: this is listening to history… through its own voice.

This piece can be fully enjoyed in use, but also as a decorative element of high visual impact, ideal to crown a period-style library, a classic living room or a professional office with character. Its spiral horn, carved case and sculptural presence make it the focal point of any setting. It never goes unnoticed and is hard to forget. It conveys character, transmits history and sparks conversation.

Beyond its beauty and functionality, this gramophone represents an excellent long-term investment. Its rarity, especially for retaining both original reproducers and an authentic aluminum horn, makes it a hard-to-find piece in today’s market. Pathé No.12 models, complete and in this state of preservation, are increasingly sought after among collectors in Europe and the United States. Acquiring it now is not only a chance to enjoy a masterpiece of phonographic engineering: it is also a smart way to preserve heritage and secure a tangible asset with a growing trend in the antiques market.

Measurements: Horn length: 63 cm (24.80 in) – Horn diameter: 50 cm (19.60 in). Case: 41.5 × 41.5 cm (16.34 × 16.34 in) – Case height: 21 cm (8.27 in).

History of the Pathé Company

The Pathé company, founded in France at the end of the 19th century, was a pioneer in both phonography and cinema. Created by the brothers Charles and Émile Pathé, the firm quickly became one of Europe’s largest producers of records and gramophones.

One of its great innovations was the development of the vertical-cut system, played with permanent sapphire needles, which offered greater durability and sound fidelity. This exclusive Pathé system required specific reproducers and tonearms, which led the firm to design its own gramophone models, such as the emblematic Pathéphone No.12.

Aluminum horns, like the one on this model, were a hallmark of high-end Pathé gramophones and were optional extras that had to be purchased separately. Their spiral shape and light material allowed for better resonance and a more avant-garde design compared to traditional floral horns. Few examples survive today.

During the early decades of the 20th century, Pathé dominated the European phonographic market, establishing subsidiaries in key countries such as England, Russia and the United States. Although lateral-cut systems eventually became the industry standard, Pathé gramophones remain true collector’s gems, valued for their mechanical quality, innovative design and historical heritage.

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