Music Box Collecting: A Fun and Unique Hobby for All Ages
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Music boxes have a rich history and charm that can bring joy and nostalgia to many collectors.
If you’re new to collecting music boxes, you might feel unsure about where to start. Should you collect vintage pieces? Do you focus on a particular type of box, or simply go for what catches your eye?
This post will guide you through the basics of collecting music boxes, helping you make informed decisions and enjoy your new hobby.
Why Collect Music Boxes?
Unlike coins or stamps, music boxes are often overlooked by many collectors, which makes them an interesting niche.
They come in various styles, from antique pieces that date back centuries to modern designs with clever mechanisms. Each music box has its own story and personality, which is part of what makes collecting them so enjoyable.
But why collect them? Here are a few reasons:
- Emotional Connection: Music boxes often have a sentimental value. They can remind you of childhood or special memories with loved ones.
- Variety of Designs: From simple, wooden boxes to ornate ones with intricate designs, there’s a lot of diversity in the world of music boxes.
- The Music: Each music box plays a different tune, and discovering rare or beautiful songs is a thrill for collectors.
If you’re still on the fence about whether music box collecting is for you, consider that it’s a hobby that doesn’t require a massive investment and doesn’t take up too much space.
Types of Music Boxes to Collect
There are several types of music boxes you can collect, and choosing one type to focus on can make your collection more meaningful. Here are a few categories you might want to consider:
1. Antique Music Boxes
These are older music boxes, often made in the 19th or early 20th century. They can be made from wood, brass, or other high-quality materials. Many collectors find antique boxes appealing because of their craftsmanship and historical value.
2. Modern Music Boxes
Modern music boxes come in all shapes and sizes. They often feature more contemporary music or pop culture themes, like Disney or movie characters. They can be a good choice for younger collectors or those who want to mix nostalgia with modern influences.
3. Cylinder Music Boxes
Cylinder music boxes are the oldest type of music box. They use a rotating cylinder covered with small pins that pluck the teeth of a steel comb, creating sound. These are often considered valuable because they are the earliest form of music box.
4. Disc Music Boxes
Disc music boxes use flat, interchangeable metal discs to play tunes. These boxes became popular in the late 19th century, as the discs allowed collectors to change the music without having to buy a new music box.
5. Novelty Music Boxes
These are fun, quirky music boxes that often have moving parts or unusual designs. For example, you might find a music box shaped like a car or one that has a small figurine that spins while the music plays. Novelty music boxes can be a fun way to add variety to your collection.
6. Reuge Music Boxes
Reuge is a famous Swiss manufacturer known for their high-quality music boxes. They’ve been around since 1865 and are still making beautiful pieces today. Collectors value Reuge boxes for their craftsmanship and clear, melodious tunes.
How to Identify Valuable Music Boxes
If you want to collect music boxes as an investment, it’s important to know how to identify valuable pieces. While some music boxes are purely sentimental, others can be worth a lot of money. Here are a few factors to consider when determining the value of a music box:
1. Age
Older music boxes, especially those made before the 20th century, tend to be more valuable. This is especially true for antique cylinder and disc music boxes.
2. Maker
Music boxes made by well-known manufacturers like Reuge, Mermod Frères, or Polyphon are often more valuable due to their reputation for quality.
3. Condition
The condition of the music box is important. Look for boxes that are in good working order, with no missing parts or significant damage. Music boxes with their original mechanisms intact are more valuable than those that have been repaired or modified.
4. Rarity
The rarer the music box, the more valuable it is. Limited edition or one-of-a-kind boxes tend to be worth more, especially if they are in good condition.
How to Care for Your Music Boxes
Music boxes are delicate instruments, and taking care of them properly is essential if you want to preserve their value. Here are a few tips to keep your collection in top shape:
1. Keep Them Clean
Dust can accumulate on music boxes, especially on intricate designs. Use a soft microfiber cloth to wipe down your boxes regularly. Avoid using water or cleaning products, as these can damage the finish.
2. Store Them Properly
Store your music boxes in a cool, dry place. Avoid exposing them to direct sunlight, which can cause the wood to fade or the metal parts to rust.
3. Display them in Protective Cases
There’s no point having an amazing music box collection if they’re not on display right? That doesn’t mean you have to have them front and centre in your living room – they may just be in your spare room for your eyes only. Nevertheless, there are some great ways to display your prized possessions.
You can go for a standard display cabinet, a carousel display cabinet or choose between a variety of display stands.
Why not display your collection in a way that makes you feel joy when looking at them?
4. Handle Them With Care
When handling your music boxes, be gentle. Don’t over-wind the mechanism, as this can cause damage. If the music box has moving parts, make sure they’re properly aligned before winding the box.
For an indepth look at music boxes for serious collectors it’s worth reading the book Music Boxes: The Collector’s Guide to Selecting, Restoring, and Enjoying New and Vintage Music Boxes. Click on the image below to find out more!
Where to Find Collectible Music Boxes
Finding the right music box for your collection can be part of the fun. Here are some places where you can look for collectible music boxes:
| Place | Description |
|---|---|
| Antique Stores | A great place to find rare, vintage music boxes, especially in older towns or cities. |
| Online Marketplaces | Websites like Amazon or Etsy have a wide range of music boxes. You can find everything from modern to antique pieces. |
| Flea Markets/Garage Sales | These are hit or miss, but if you’re lucky, you might find a hidden gem at a good price. |
| Auctions | For serious collectors, auctions can be a good way to find high-quality, rare music boxes. |
How to Spot Fake Music Boxes Online
While buying online can be convenient, there are also risks, especially when it comes to antiques. Some sellers may try to pass off reproductions as originals. Here are a few tips to avoid getting scammed:
- Check Reviews: Look at the seller’s reviews before purchasing.
- Ask Questions: Don’t be afraid to ask the seller about the music box’s history, condition, and authenticity.
- Look for Signs of Aging: Antique music boxes should show some signs of aging. If it looks too new, it might be a reproduction.
How to Start Your Own Music Box Collection
Now that you know the basics, it’s time to start building your collection. If you’re not sure where to start, here are a few tips:
1. Start Small
You don’t need to spend a fortune on your first music box. Start with something affordable and work your way up to more expensive pieces.
2. Set a Budget
It’s easy to get carried away when collecting, so set a budget for yourself. This will help you avoid overspending and keep your collection manageable.
3. Focus on What You Love
Collect pieces that resonate with you. Whether it’s the tune, design, or sentimental value, choosing music boxes that you love will make your collection more personal and enjoyable.
How to Connect With Other Music Box Collectors
Collecting music boxes can be even more fun when you connect with others who share your passion. Here are a few ways to connect with fellow collectors:
Facebook Groups
One of the best places to find other collectors is on Facebook. Groups like Music Box Collector’s Buy/Sell/Share and buy/sell/trade antique music boxes have active communities where you can ask questions, share photos, and trade or sell music boxes.
Reddit Communities
Reddit also has a community for music box collectors, r/musicbox is a great place to find advice, share your collection, and learn more about the hobby.
Common Mistakes New Music Box Collectors Make
If you’re new to collecting, it’s easy to make a few missteps. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them:
1. Buying Too Much Too Soon
It’s tempting to buy a lot of music boxes right away, but this can lead to clutter. Instead, take your time and only buy pieces you truly love.
2. Ignoring Condition
Always check the condition of a music box before purchasing it. Even if it looks nice, it may not be functional or worth the asking price.
3. Not Doing Enough Research
Before buying a music box, do some research. Learn about the different types, makers, and price ranges so you can make informed decisions.
Why Music Box Collecting is a Unique Hobby
Music box collecting is unlike many other hobbies. While it might not be as common as stamp collecting or coin collecting, it offers a unique blend of history, craftsmanship, and nostalgia.
Each music box tells a story, not just through its design, but through the tune it plays. This makes each piece a little window into a different time and place.
For collectors, the joy is not just in the collecting, but in discovering the perfect box that plays a tune that resonates with them. It’s a personal, and sometimes sentimental, journey that can bring a lot of happiness to those who pursue it.
Conclusion: The Beauty of Collecting Music Boxes
In a world full of mass-produced items, collecting something as unique as music boxes feels special.
Whether you’re drawn to their history, the melodies they play, or their artistic designs, music boxes offer a wonderful blend of beauty and craftsmanship.
For collectors, it’s not just about owning items, but about cherishing a piece of history and art that’s both personal and meaningful.
So, if you’re looking for a hobby that’s a bit outside of the norm, collecting music boxes might be the perfect fit for you. There’s a whole world of music boxes out there just waiting to be discovered.
