You are looking at a rare and very unique 1930's era Western Electric Crystal D 173069 model microphone. This classic bullet mic was intended for use as general purpose mic. Great for dispatch work at hospital's police stations and other work environments. It's 100% complete with the original element inside
I have to be honest that this is the first mic in this model I have ever come across so it seems that Western Electric didn't sell many of these or there weren't many that survived. I don't know anything about these other than it was made in the USA and is quite old.
It should also be noted that while the mic does still work...the signal is very low and I would rate it it around 20% to 25%.
It's an all metal construction with a polished chrome finish and very durable. Appx 2 1/4 inches across X 2 1/4 inches deep X 4 inches tall. With the mic on the stand it's appx 12 inches tall X 5 1/4 inches across.
This would make a nice piece for any vintage mic collection or great as a prop for a movie set or T.V series.
This D 173069 is in pretty nice shape. The body is free of any fractures, corrosion or dents. Just a few lite scuff marks and scratches. The front grill has a very modern look. The grill is free of any dents and the inner black cloth screen is perfect. All original screws are still present. I would rate the cosmetic condition of this mic an honest 7 on a scale of 1 -10.
It should be noted that the cable is appx 10 inches long. The cable is soft, pliable but has dry rot and noticeable cracks. The cable comes with a standard 1/4 male end connector. You can always replace the cable but that will be your choice to make. I have left it alone for historical purposes.
The mic will screw onto any desk or floor stand you have but a period stand is provided in which to display the mic.
The stand is a period model unknown. Possibly sold by Western Electric? It has a cast iron base with a polished chrome cover plate and 7 inch chrome riser. The stand is quite heavy and makes a very good, stable platform for this mic making it very hard to tip over. The stand has a bit of wear located mostly on the cover plate in the form of pitting and scratches. Still a very nice example and the physical condition is a true 7.
It has a nice green felt gasket / liner on the bottom to keep the stand from scratching any surface it sits on.
This is going to be a very piece anywhere it's displayed.
And as always...
I can promise you will be happy with it for the price paid. If not...I have a no hassle return policy. The shipping will be on you as I believe that's fair but the purchase price would be refunded. Simply return in the same nice condition...period. Check my rating. International buyers are welcome as well. Buyer must pay within 24 hours or an unpaid case will be opened and item relisted. Domestic buyer will get priority shipping.
If you have any questions feel free to ask and...thanks for looking.