In a Nutshell
Victor's early top model 2-spring gramophone, every collector's dream

Introduction:
Introduced by Victor Talking Machine as a high-end high-performance model in 1901, the first Monarch M was a front-mount machine, but as most of Victor's outside horn gramophones over time adopted a rear-mount design with straight or tapered tonearm. The canvas trim for the "M" is an egg and dart design and the square corner columns normally are fluted with 3 grooves. Mine has extremely rare plain corner columns with small up and down pedestals, very similar to late "D" and early "V" models. Paul Edie (Victor-Victrola) talks about a "considerable design overlap" and the 1904 factory fire to be responsible for the numerous variations within specific models (ref.1). If the columns have been restored by a former owner, it was an excellent job, since the finish looks absolutely the same as the rest of the cabinet. The "M" has a double-spring all-brass bevel-gear motor, heavy 10” turntable, and a Victor Exhibition sound box. Mine has an optional black and brass model J horn with 16½" bell diameter. The Monarch was followed by the very successful higher class model III, when in 1905 Roman numerals were introduced. Like the larger model MS, the M has the black back bracket with ornate blue-gold pin striping. About 58'000 "M" were produced, compared with 158'000 Victor II (ref.2).

Additional information:
 ref.1: http://www.victor-victrola.com/Victor%20III.htm,
 ref.2: http://www.victor-victrola.com/Production%20Volumes.htm
 ref.3: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BQD2gvBboHo


About my gramophone:
With the possible exception of the columns (see above) my gramophone is in original and excellent cosmetic and working condition. The finish is original, the speed control and bullet brake are original and rust-free. The correct black-brass data plaque with the then new dog logo shows type M and serial number 051119. The back bracket's original pin striping is in acceptable condition. The reproducer and the motor have been fully serviced. The double-spring bevel-gear motor can be fully wound up. A youtube video with the gramophone playing Lu Watters 1942 "Daddy Do" shows the strong volume dependence on the position with respect to the horn opening (ref.3). Please e-mail me (Kris) for any questions or make me an offer; ich spreche Deutsch, je parle Français.

Here are the specifications:

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