In the early days of consumer radio, new radio models were usually introduced to the public in June, unlike decades later when new products (automobiles, appliances, and electronics) were introduced in the Fall. Also, the “model year” idea had not yet caught on. The radios Philco introduced in June 1929, for example, were considered 1929 models.

In June of 1929, Philco introduced two new radio chassis in three new console cabinets, plus a revised table model. Model 87 was the final revision to Philco’s series of “Neutrodyne-Plus” radio chassis which had first arrived a year earlier with the ‘511 Series” of colorful metal table model radios and wood console models. The 87 used eight tubes and the Hazeltine-designed Neutrodyne circuit.

I have long admired the 1929 Philco highboy and highboy de luxe console cabinets but had never owned one. The tapestry grille cloth and the fleur-de-lis cutouts on the sides are very attractive styling cues.

Recently a friend of mine decided to sell his model 87 highboy. I mentioned to him that I had never owned a 1929 highboy, so on a visit here the other day, he brought along his 87 and left it here.

This 87 is in excellent shape. The finish is original and looks great, especially considering it is 91 years old. I am really happy to have it in my collection.

I sent my friend Paul home with a working Philco 53-960, a huge table model radio, and he seemed happy to get it.

With chemotherapy starting again soon, plus a commitment I have to repair a Philco 38-690 as I am able, I do not know when I will get around to getting this 87 playing again. Most likely, it will be sometime early next year. One thing about the Philco 87 – they weigh a lot, but they are generally very easy to service. I have had model 87s cross my workbench in the past, and I am always amazed at how sensitive these sets are to be so primitive.

Primitive?

Yes – only a few years removed from three dial radios which only ran on batteries, radio of 1929 had made great advances but still had a way to go. Radios could now be powered by AC, had single dial control, and much better speakers. But it would take RCA to release their superheterodyne patents for licensing by other manufacturers (they were forced to do so by court order in 1930) to make radio truly modern.

This is not to say that a Philco 87 is not a good radio. Quite the contrary, in fact – the 87 is a very good radio. Properly restored and operating with a good longwire antenna, an 87 will outperform many later, low tube count superheterodyne radios. It lacks automatic volume control, a feature which Philco began to use later in 1929 in the new model 95, so when you tune an 87 you run the risk of having strong local stations blast out at you as you tune across the dial. But if you keep one hand on the volume control as you tune, all will be well.

I wish to express my sincere appreciation to Paul for passing the 87 on to me. I hope to give it a good home for a long time.