Name/Title
Wax Cylinder Shaver for the Smallest Phonograph in the WorldEntry/Object ID
204Description
Wax Cylinder Shaver, Custom-Built with Spring Motor and Two-Speed Gearbox ca. 1900
Description and Function
This extraordinary device is a unique wax cylinder shaver – a machine designed to shave down and smooth out wax cylinders for reuse. It was custom-built specifically for the smallest phonograph in the world (Exhibit No. 108 at the Edisonium).
What makes it truly special: Unlike most shavers of its kind, this unit operates fully independently. It features an integrated spring-driven motor, which is exceptionally rare – most known shavers were manually operated by hand crank or driven by an external phonograph. Even more remarkable, it includes a two-speed transmission, operated via a side-mounted gear lever.
Technical Features
Drive system: Integrated spring motor (no cranking required during operation)
Speed selection: Two-speed gearbox
Housing: Solid oak with cast metal top and black metal base plate
Marking: Round brass “Laboratory Label” affixed to the front panel
Historical Significance
Shavers with their own spring motor are extremely rare – this particular example is, to date, the only known machine equipped with a two-speed gear system.
It was custom-engineered specifically for the smallest phonograph in the world, with exact dimensions and proportions tailored to match the miniature machine. The brass laboratory plaque suggests it was likely built as a workshop prototype or demonstration unit, possibly used in a laboratory or technical setting.
Uniqueness
World’s only known shaver with gearbox and integrated spring motor
Custom-built for the smallest known phonograph
A rare fusion of precision engineering and technical innovation
A mechanical gem – and a fascinating witness to the experimental pioneering era of sound recording.
