Marilyn : Mid-Century Modern
Marilyn Presents
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Presentation Script
Ladies and gentlemen, prepare to be transported back to the golden age of rock and roll with this magnificent Mid-Century Modern Seeburg Select-O-Matic 100 M100B Jukebox. This isn't just a music player; it's a vibrant piece of American cultural history, a true icon of the 1950s diner and soda shop. Introduced in 1949, this particular model holds a special place in history as the world's first commercial jukebox mechanism designed exclusively to play 45 RPM records. This technological leap revolutionized how we consumed music, making it a pivotal artifact from the dawn of the vinyl era. Crafted with a robust wood cabinet, it's adorned with a striking blue marbled laminate and gleaming chrome accents. Peeking through the clear dome, you can admire the intricate 'Select-O-Matic' mechanism, a marvel of mid-century engineering, ready to pluck your chosen tune. The sturdy construction and mechanical complexity are hallmarks of Seeburg's commitment to quality. While showing some honest wear consistent with its age, particularly on the nameplate and cabinet, these signs of use only enhance its authentic vintage charm. The dust and cobwebs visible are simply a testament to its journey through time, not a detraction from its inherent value. Based on the clear model identification, serial number, and the historical significance of its 45 RPM mechanism, I confidently assess this Seeburg Select-O-Matic 100 M100B Jukebox as 95% authentic. In today's auction market, a piece like this, in good, unrestored condition, would likely fetch between $3,000 and $8,000. It's ready to bring some classic tunes and a whole lot of nostalgia to its next owner!
Item Report
Mid-Century Modern Seeburg Select-O-Matic 100 M100B Jukebox
By: Seeburg Corporation
Style: Mid-Century Modern
Origin: United States
Materials: Wood cabinet, laminate, chrome-plated metal, glass/plexiglass, steel, various electronic and mechanical components
Age: Circa 1949-1950
Condition: Good (visible wear to cabinet and nameplate, some dust/cobwebs, but appears largely intact and functional; not officially graded)
Value: Authentic: $3,000 - $8,000; Reproduction: N/A (reproductions of this complexity are not commonly made)
Maker's Marks / Writing: SELECT-O-MATIC 100, MODEL M100B, SERIAL NO. 7414, THE WORLD'S FIRST COMMERCIAL MECHANISM DESIGNED EXCLUSIVELY TO PLAY 45 RPM RECORDS, U.S. Patent Numbers RE23501, 2411614, 2425974, 2481548, 2323965, 2386595
Date: 2026-06-30 23:36:49.267342
Description:
A classic American coin-operated jukebox, the Seeburg Select-O-Matic 100 M100B, introduced in 1949. It features a distinctive blue marbled laminate cabinet with chrome accents, a clear dome showcasing the intricate 'Select-O-Matic' record-changing mechanism, and a front selection panel for 100 45 RPM records. This model is historically significant as the world's first commercial mechanism designed exclusively to play 45 RPM records.
Curator Questions
Curated by Jade
Assessment:
This is a highly iconic and historically significant jukebox, representing a pivotal moment in music technology with its exclusive 45 RPM mechanism. Its design is quintessential Mid-Century Modern, making it a desirable collectible.
Individual Images:
- whole jukebox front view
- whole jukebox three-quarter view
- detail of 45 RPM mechanism
- detail of Select-O-Matic nameplate
- back of jukebox
Provenance:
N/A
Condition:
Good (visible wear to cabinet and nameplate, some dust/cobwebs, but appears largely intact and functional; not officially graded)
Identification Score: 100%
The model name 'Seeburg Select-O-Matic 100 M100B' and '45 RPM' designation are clearly visible on the unit and its nameplate, leaving no doubt as to its identity.
Authenticity Score: 95%
The presence of the original 'Select-O-Matic 100' mechanism, the 'M100B' model number, serial number, and U.S. Patent numbers on the manufacturer's plate strongly confirm its authenticity as a period piece. The visible wear and patina are consistent with its age.
Image Memory Note
None None
Keywords
Seeburg, Select-O-Matic 100, M100B, Jukebox, 45 RPM, Mid-Century Modern, 1950s, American, Coin-operated, Vintage
Comparables (Similar Items)
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