1926 Gimbel Brothers Magnet ZR-66 Repair and Restoration

In 1926 Gimbel Brothers Department Stores offered a unique ornate TRF radio that was limited to 1000 units. It was believed to be produced by Chelsea Radio Company in Chelsea Massachusetts by a number of Radio Collectors mainly because the ZR-60 was produced by Chelsea, and likely the ZR-70. It may not be a Chelsea Radio product as we once believed. We will delve into that history, and then take on several challenges as we work through this repair and restoration. This radio had a faded and running lacquer job on it so clean-up was a challenge. We will be creating a decal for the second AF transformer after replacing the coils. With the parallel output tubes, the radio does produce a nice clear and loud audio signal. It is as functional as elegant. This radio is a truly rare and delightful example of 1920's craftmanship.