Dazzling 1938 Zenith 6-S-223 Big Black Dial Radio, Fully Restored, Works Great!

Description

There are two reasons antique radio collectors prize Zenith radios so highly: They look fantastic, and they sound just as fantastic. Indeed, Zenith’s big, back airplane dial is so iconic that it emblazons t-shirts to this day! Many people don’t realize, though, that Zenith only used that dial for a few years in the 1930’s, which is why those sets, in particular, are so highly prized. Most of those are consoles or tombstones; but this one – well, this one is really special.
It’s a Zenith model 6-S-223 from 1938, and as you can see, it’s no tombstone. In fact, it’s not much like any other set Zenith ever made, and it’s not often found, even in the largest collections. As you can see, Zenith put a lot of effort into this set’s design, from those two wide vertical inlay bars to that marvelous off-kilter grille that looks like a Calder mobile. I had admired this set for years in the pages of radio books, but had never actually seen one until I pulled this one out of an attic in central Maine years ago. I couldn’t believe my luck – not only finding such a rare radio, but finding it in such wonderful, all-original condition. Even the band-switch decals are all there, and as bold as the day this set was made. That big black dial itself is pristine, with no fading, cracking or flaking – a rarity in and of itself. It also lights up beautifully, as you can see.
The chassis and speaker were so clean that I knew this set would be a great candidate for restoration, and it has been restored, meticulously, playing loud and clear on both Standard Broadcast (AM) and shortwave; it’s also highly sensitive, clearly picking up stations from as far away as Toronto and Charlotte. Cosmetically, this set is all-original, including the finish and knobs, and as you can see, it’s just gorgeous. I have had it on display in my library for years, and have played it virtually every day; visitors are drawn to it like a magnet, for its sound and performance as much as its striking appearance. (It’s a big set, measuring 19.5”w x 11.75”h x 9.75”d.) After enjoying it for so long, now, I’m running out of space, so I’ve decided to pass it on to another collector who will cherish it as I have. If you’ve always wanted one of these but feared you’d never find one – never mind one in such wonderful, completely restored, condition – this is your lucky day. You will search for years and not find one half as nice. Best of all, I offer it here with NO RESERVE – high bidder takes it!
I will ship this item ONLY within the United States. If you live elsewhere and are interested in it, please contact me before bidding so we can discuss the shipping charges, which can be very expensive outside the U.S. I ship once a week (whenever possible). Having received, over the years, some items that did not survive shipping, I always take care to pack very carefully. If you prefer, I will be happy to drop it off at a nearby UPS store and have it professionally packed and shipped at your expense. I reserve the right to raise or lower the shipping charges should they prove to be significantly different than those determined by the shipping calculator. I reserve the right to refuse sale to anyone with excessive negative feedback or an otherwise suspicious history. Payment is due within three (3) days of the auction's close. Due to its age I am selling this item without any warranty. All sales are final. I am not a dealer, and don’t have a big operation with a staff, so I would appreciate your patience while I take the time to pack your items with the care they deserve.
Be sure to see all the pictures! I'll be happy to answer any questions you may have, but please try to ask as early as possible, as it sometimes takes me a while to get to my email. Please see my other listings, as I am running out of space and am thinning out my collection considerably. I have several fine items up on Ebay right now, and will be listing many more in the weeks and months to come, so please keep checking. Good luck and happy bidding!