
(click on picture for high
resolution image)
This set was made by the Western Televison Co. in Chicago in 1929. It
uses a 45 line disk, with triple interlace. Western
Television was the first company to produce a commercial
television receiver (The Visionette) in 1929 with a 17 inch scanning
disk. It was available as kit for $88.25 minus the Kinolamp and
cabinet. The cabinet was an extra $20.00. The Visionette cabinet
contained only the scanning disk assembly. Separate receivers for
sight and sound were necessary to make up a complete television
receiver. A companion receiver and consolette table were available
from Western Television for an additional $85.00 and $20.00
(information courtesy of Peter Yanczer).
This set is in excellent condition. The only defect is that the
veneer has separated from the front panel, which has warped somewhat.
It can be easily repaired. The synchronous motor works nicely.
The set was acquired from the grandson of the original owner, who was
an executive with Western Television. We hope to have more
information soon.
Between 250 and 300 of these sets were manufactured, probably more
than any other mechanical set in the U.S. The serial number of this
set is 190. Click here for a Western
Television Bulletin describing this set.

The rear with the back off