Item Report
Art Deco Truetone Wood Tube Radio
By: Truetone (Western Auto Supply Co.)
Style: Art Deco Electronics
Origin: United States
Materials: Wood veneer case, glass dial, fabric grille, metal hardware
Age: circa 1935-1938
Condition: Good (shows typical wear, some oxidation on dial bezel, grille fabric age-appropriate, not tested for function)
Value: $100–$250 (if in working condition; lower if non-functional or with significant cosmetic issues)
Maker's Marks / Writing: Dial is marked 'Truetone'; additional maker marks may be inside the chassis or on the rear label.
Date: 2025-06-20 10:21:53.399403
Description:
This is an Art Deco period Truetone tube radio, featuring a wooden case with ornate floral carving and a decorative grille fabric. The radio features a large, glass-covered tuning dial, typical of 1930s American radios. The Truetone brand was a private label used by Western Auto Supply Company, and these radios were produced by several major manufacturers. The combination of the curvilinear dial window, carved details, and construction techniques suggest production in the mid-1930s.
Curator Questions
Curated by Jade
Assessment:
A classic example of American Art Deco radio design. The ornate floral carvings and the large Truetone dial offer strong period character. Collectors value these radios for their design and nostalgia, though value is heavily dependent on originality and operational condition.
Individual Images:
- The detailed image highlights the characteristic Truetone dial
- with some yellowing and minor internal spotting expected from age. The wood case shows surface wear and some minor scuffs but retains its carved detail. Grille fabric appears original and displays typical wear patterns; minor sagging or discoloration is visible.
Provenance:
No documentation or provenance materials provided.
Condition:
Good (shows typical wear, some oxidation on dial bezel, grille fabric age-appropriate, not tested for function)
Identification Score: 98%
The distinctive Truetone dial, ornate case, and styling make the identification highly certain as an Art Deco Truetone wood radio from the 1930s.
Authenticity Score: 90%
The wear, patina, and materials indicate a period-authentic piece. Some restoration or replacement of fabric/grille may be present, but primary parts appear original.
Image Memory Note
This is a mid-1930s Truetone wood radio, recognizable by the ornate dial and floral carvings; overall good original condition shown, with minor expected wear.
Keywords
Truetone, Art Deco radio, American radio, tube radio, 1930s, Western Auto, wooden radio, collectible electronics, United States
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