Cylinder Music Boxes
Beginning in the early 1800's, Swiss masters began producing small cylinder music boxes, starting with "sectional comb" pieces and graduating to large and orchestral varieties.
Virtually all were produced in the St. Croix or Geneva regions, and one can only wonder in amazement that they were produced without the benefit of any electrically operated machinery or lighting!
The music boxes that you will see on this and the next several pages fall into several categories, but all have one thing in common: they were top-quality when produced and remain so today.
LeCoultre “Bells & Drum” Orchestral Music box
A spectacular Swiss music box, elegant in every regard, playing ten beautiful selections. The six tuned bells (seemingly being held in place by two bronze mermaids), and a six beater drum, are both accompaniments to the main music with on-off levers. The beautiful burl walnut case, with beautiful inlay on top, has cast bronze lifting handles at either end. The 16” cylinder plays on a triple comb, and is in perfect playing condition., with a unique, original tune card present.
#4004
Swiss “Orchestra” Music Box with Organ
We are pleased to announce the arrival of a very special music box, from the estate of a major collector who wanted only “the finest”.
Featuring seven (7) interchangeable cylinders, the musical works has a drum, bells, castanets, and an organ. The matching, original table houses the cylinders not being used.
#494 (sale pending)
“Hidden Orchestra” Music Box
This fine c.1870 Swiss music box, attributed to LeCoultre Freres, comprises the bells, drum and castanets of an orchestra piece. However, and quite unusually, is that they are hidden beneath the bed plate. Only a few of this variety were made; music box makers quickly learned that their customers wanted the visual accompaniment (“en vue”) and subsequent orchestra boxes were made with the orchestra above for all to see. A rare and historical piece.
#495
L’Epee Music Box
This is certainly a rare and unusual piece. Made by "L’Epee of France, c. 1885, and playing only four tunes. In virtually perfect, restored condition, with beautifully inlaid lid and bright comb and cylinder. Listen and watch here: video
#4001
Paillard 4-comb “Quattor” Music Box
A large and rare 4-comb music box made by Charles Paillard in St. Croix, Switzerland, c.1880. The unique and heavenly sound is the result of complex arrangements being played on a large 18" cylinder employing multiple combs, resulting in what seem to be several diverse instruments playing simultaneously.
The richly inlaid cabinetry, ornate gilt bronze handles and double-spring motors are indicative of what was made to be, and remains, a top-of-the-line instrument seen only in the finest of homes.
Click here to see and hear this music box
#448
Nicole Freres “Two Per Turn” Music Box
Dating to 1877, this is an “original” Nicole, the premier maker, playing 12 tunes.
#498
“Oratorio” Music Box
A rare "Oratorio" music box by Nicole Freres, c. 1875, playing 12 airs on a fat cylinder, 2-per-turn format, featuring Handel and Mozart. This is another example of the original standards of workmanship of the Nicole family business.
Fully restored, in perfect condition.
Click here to see and hear this music box
#419