Antique Phrynis Nº 12 Trumpet Gramophone - Phonograph. Switzerland, Circa 1910

View in 360°: https://ardhamin.sirv.com/2025/09/GR-E-338/GR-E-338.spin
Watch the video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/6Epv5x3YnsU

This magnificent trumpet gramophone or phonograph is an example of the historic Phrynis brand, model nº 12, manufactured in Switzerland around 1910. It is an exceptional model both for its state of preservation and its original elements, particularly its characteristic metal flower-shaped horn, hand-painted in reddish tones with fine golden lines, an unmistakable hallmark of this firm, which combined visual elegance with powerful sound.

The case is made of solid oak wood, finished with French polish, and on its front it preserves in excellent condition the original decal with the distinctive logo “PHRYNIS – Importé de Suisse”, flanked by the Swiss, American and French flags, held by an eagle with outstretched wings. This emblem is highly valued by collectors, as it authenticates the origin and period of the device, placing it in the early artisanal stage of the brand.

The spring motor works perfectly, plays records with clean and powerful sound, and is complete with all its original components: metal soundbox with needle, tonearm, speed plate and crank. The only replaced element is the turntable felt, updated for better performance without altering the aesthetics.

An even more interesting jewel thanks to its exceptional accessory: the original wicker carrying case for the horn. These cases were optional extras to be purchased separately and are extremely rare today, as their fragile nature meant that few survived over time. Here it is preserved complete, with lid, in magnificent condition, which makes this piece truly unique.

This gramophone is not just a machine for playing records: it is a genuine conversation piece, a work with soul that encapsulates the mechanical and aesthetic elegance of an unrepeatable era. Its scenic presence transforms any space, not only with its impressive hand-painted floral horn, but also with the aura of history emanating from each curve, screw and engraving. What really makes it extraordinary is the complete ensemble: the perfectly preserved original decal, the flawless functioning, and finally, its extremely rare wicker transport case, an accessory virtually disappeared from the market, reserved only for the most exceptional specimens.

This combination of authenticity, functionality and rarity makes this gramophone a safe investment for any serious collector, or the centerpiece of a décor with real character. It is uncommon to find pieces of this level, so well preserved, so complete and so evocative. If you are looking for something unique, with history, beauty and increasing value, this is the opportunity you should not miss.

Measurements

Base 34 × 34 cm (13.39 × 13.39 in). Case height 14.5 cm (5.71 in). Horn length 73 cm (28.74 in). Horn diameter 57 cm (22.44 in).

History of Phrynis

The Phrynis brand emerged at the end of the 19th century as a collaboration between the brothers Charles and Jacques Ullmann, Parisian entrepreneurs experienced in the manufacture of music boxes, and the Swiss manufacturer John Jaccard, based in Sainte-Croix, in the canton of Vaud.

Ullmann was in charge of the international marketing and distribution of gramophones and phonographs, while Jaccard contributed his technical expertise as a supplier of mechanisms and components. From this collaboration came high-quality devices, many of which bore the legend “Importé de Suisse” and were exported to important markets such as the United States, Spain and France.

Phrynis stood out for its elegant petal horns, often in vivid colors, its refined oak or mahogany cabinetry, and its detailed graphic work, visible in the logos painted or engraved on the case and soundbox. The brand did not operate as a large independent factory, but rather as a commercial platform that integrated Swiss components under a Parisian image.

From 1899 onwards, Phrynis had an official headquarters in Paris for the sale of machines and records, also including brands such as Zonophone, Odeon and Fonotipia. The brand seems to have disappeared or been absorbed over time by larger conglomerates such as International Talking Machines of Berlin, leading to its decline in the 1920s.

Today, Phrynis models with external horns and carved wooden cases are considered highly sought-after pieces, especially those preserving original and distinctive elements such as the full logo or exceptional accessories like wicker cases.

We are professional antique dealers. To see more photos of this item, Please click on this link:

https://www.antiguedades.es/en/antique-gramophones/5322-antique-phrynis-12-trumpet-gramophone-wicker-carrying-case-switzerland-c-1910.html