____FUTURISTIC SPACEAGE SHAPE _____
*** AWA RADIOLA ***
B15 Model
C1963
Pickup from Sydney welcome. For postage costs, see "shipping details" section below
CLASSIC
LAST AWA VALVE MODEL MADE!!
STRIKING STEEL BLUE & CREAM CASE
A brilliant design interpretation based on the early 60's era of space exploration and sleek airliners, and In many ways a watershed model for AWA. It captures perfectly the changing mood of the time towards more modern and contemporary designs compared with the rounded edge box shapes which prevailed throughout the 50's, and which by that stage had been around for a long time. Reflecting a move towards much sleeker styles as typified by the emerging designs of cars and aircraft of that time, this model almost resembles a control panel, and one is reminded of scenes from television shows like "Thunderbirds" and 'Dr Who" !!
Fantastic in concept and execution for its time and in excellent original used condition.
- Unique curved shape
- Full width sleek slatted grille
- Control panel style dial
- Cockpit style knobs
- Stylish cream front with contrasting Steel blue back cover. Gold coloured highlights.
This model AWA Radiola carries a nostalgic element with it, as well as marking a milestone in the history of AWA in Australia. It is believed to be one of, if not the very last model Valve radio produced by AWA before the changeover to solid state transistors, giving it some degree of collectable status.
The radio is in excellent working condition and a very strong performer!. As with all valve radios, the set takes around 15 seconds to warm up before sound is heard. Reception is clear and strong, with a nice strong sound. It has a beautiful mellow tone that only comes from these old sets. There is none of that tinny sound we associate with modern transistor radios. The volume knob does however exhibit some "noise" (crackling interference) when adjusting volume within the first half revolution, but beyond that settles down.
Measurements are: 34cm wide x 21cm high x 15cm deep.
The case has been completely stripped down, cleaned and given a thorough detailing to bring it back to its gleaming original look. In fact, it is now so shiny as to make it difficult to take photos for the listing, as there were many reflections in the now mirror like case!! It is therefore in excellent condition for its age, with only some minor blemishes to report. The left side of the back cover has three visible scuff marks/scratches which are only surface deep (see photo 8). The right side of the back cover has a 4mm scratch near the top and a couple of barely seen blue blemishes mid way down the side (see photo 2). There a two 5mm surface scratches as well as a couple of minor spots on the back (photos 9 & 10). A couple of small spots on top of back cover (photo 18). There is some slight thinning of the gold lettering in the RADIOLA emblem on the front panel, and some of the gold border around the tuning dial has faded in places. Apart from the visible scratches on the left side as described above, the rest are incidental and the radio presents very well overall. Underneath, the middle section of the feet have been cut out (photos 16 & 17). Probably done so the radio could be positioned over some protrusion like a cable or similar. This is only seen with the radio upside down, so not visible in normal use. Please examine the closeups carefully to satisfy yourself .
Other than the above, the radio presents in really beautiful condition! It is actually a stunning radio to look at. The cream grille is spotless. The knobs are all matching originals. Still with its original valve layout schematic inside the back cover. And the AWA badge in the top left of the grille is in perfect condition.
This is a truly outstanding radio of its time for several reasons, including its unique and forward thinking design, but not the least being that it still looks so fresh and contemporary today. It has such a beautiful retro feel to it , and the colours are of a vibrant but neutral palate which makes it absolutely perfect not only for a retro living space, but just as equally for a modern decor or modern apartment. Think about it......how many old radios could give you that look.
You need look no further than here for a rare blend of nostalgia and timeless modernity!!!
Selling with no reserve at a BARGAIN start price! DON'T MISS OUT. These are rare to find in this condition.
GOOD LUCK BIDDING !!
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