Bidsquare Picks: Hit the Switch

When this satellite shaped radio launched its first electronic transmission through the air, America had just entered The Great Depression. It carried melodic waves by song birds such as Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holiday and Louis Armstrong across the country to soothe, entertain and inspire listeners. 

Lot 452, Walter Dorwin Teague; Sparton Co., Peachbird Radio, Jackson, MI, 1930s; Estimate $1,500 - $2,000

As one of three vintage radios in Ragos upcoming sale, Property from the Collection of Seymour Stein, Founder, Sire Records (01/20) this throwback comes directly from the man who helped put new wave and punk bands like the Ramones, Talking Heads and mavericks like Madonna on the map. Once given a little spit shine, this charming Peachbird might feel a bit shocked by the current songs it chirps out!

In this edition of ‘Bidsquare Picks,’ were switchin it up with mechanical makes that boast adjustable abilities, pluggable personalities and operational otherness.

Lot 22, Jennings 25-Cent Golf Ball Vendor Slot Machine; Estimate $4,000 - $6,000

The ideal accessory for a retro miniature golf course, this ‘Birdie’ of a different kind sends a line of golf balls rolling down its shoot once one deposits a coin and gives the lever a yank! Click here to browse all upcoming slot machines from Pook & Pook, Inc, Americana & International sale coming up on January 27th. 

Lot 228, Superstudio; Poltronova, Adjustable Gherpe Table Lamp, Italy, 1960s; Estimate $2,000 - $3,000

This 20th century gem brings the meaning of adjusting the lights to a whole new level. Thanks to six acrylic arches that revolve and retract around a central pivot, the stylish Gherpe lamp presents a variety of changeable shapes that continue to make this fixture an icon of Italian space age design. Click here to preview all upcoming lamps.

Lot 267, Kyser & Rex Lion and Two Monkeys Mechanical Bank, Late 19th century; Estimate $1,000 - $1,500

This cat has a monstrous taste for money. Simply, place a coin in the monkeys hand, press the lever on the tree to lower its hand and open the lions mouth to a deposit coin! Click here to browse all mechanical banks coming up at Cowans Auctions, Cleveland Winter Auction - Session II, Toys on January 26th. 

Lot 279, Gino Valle, Monumental Wall Clock, CIFRA 12, Italy, c. 1955; Estimate $1,000 - $1,500

Look, no hands! This classic time keeper from Wrights Art + Design sale on January 18th retains the simple and understated invention of modern design. The flap display, opposed to a hand clock, is uniquely tied to Italian architect Gino Valle and is recognized all over the world for its ultra chic aesthetic. 

With new auctions added daily, were always ripe for the pickin! Be sure to check into Bidsquare Picks each week for a speedy look at our upcoming selections!

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Jessica Helen Weinberg | Senior Content Editor at Bidsquare

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