Marconi 296 Value ?

[tim.54]

Have been asked to make an offer on a Marconi 296 , the cabinet is in fair to good condition but the bakelite `M` is missing from the front ,hasn`t been used for years and i`m assuming everything else is there including the back and that `valve`. is there anywhere i could look to get an average fair figure ? the guys also a bit reluctant to sell as he appreciates it as a nice piece of furniture ,though its been under the stairs for a while !but i can only try .its fairly local and i would obviously look it over before parting with any cash. just want to offer a fair price , all advice appreciated.
regards, tim.

[tiv48]

The presence of the PX4 makes this difficult as the valve is worth more than the radio
there is one on ebay http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Vintage-Marconi-valve-radio-art-deco-Working-/251767278015?pt=UK_Collectables_RadioTelevision_Telephony_SM&hash=item3a9e7fc9bf
has a buy it now price but looks like no interest.
Rob T

[Radio Fixer]

I wouldn't touch it unless at a really low price. The broken M is common and ones that aren't are possibly worth £100. You can get an idea by looking back through old BVWS auctions. Unfortunately the latest ones wont have the hammer price added yet (probably for a few years) so you have to go back a bit.

With the M broken the set is at auction might only fetch £30 to £40. Its a main feature of the radio ...

As to the PX4 untested it doesn't add any value for me. Its more than likely low emission and so worthless or not working and so you will have to buy one at great expense. Or do what most do and graft in a cheaper valve that the audio fools aren't into.

They are not rare and over the years I have seen plenty at swaps and auctions with good Bakelite. If you really are attracted to the set I would look for a good one, pay more and it will be a much better restoration once finished and working.

Gary

[tim.54]

Thanks Rob and Gary , am going to go with garys advice and wait till a decent one in good condition comes along . thanks again,
tim.