The PHILCO Phorum
Model 90 serial number - Printable Version

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Model 90 serial number - Jon G - 12-22-2010

I am restoring my first model 90 and in researching it before starting , I read numerous posts regarding the serial number of the set. Mine has the labels on the tube shield but none on the chassis or cabinet. Where was the serial number listed? Mine is the single 47 output type and a date on the bottom of the cabinet of Aug. 26 193?
Thanks,
Jon

Re: Model 90 serial number - Ron Ramirez - 12-22-2010

Hi Jon

The serial number was stamped into the metal chassis in two places: one, underneath the tuning condenser; and two, on the rear of the chassis pan to the left of the speaker socket.

The number should be higher than 237001. It was around July of 1931 that Philco changed the Model 90 from using two 45 output tubes to a single 47 output tube. That date under your cabinet would be AUG 26 1931.

I assisted Ron Boucher in a serial number survey of 1931 Philcos several years ago. Chuck now has the story on his website:

http://www.philcorepairbench.com/cathedralid.htm

I now have a 90 cathedral that was rescued from the trash! A kind fellow emailed me, told me about it, and said I could have it, free. I paid for the shipping, of course. It needs new veneer on the front arch, grille cloth, and the top/sides need to be glued back onto the front arch. Also, the rear arch needs to be glued back on, and the chassis needs restoration. All basically easy fixes. It's a single 47 type also, with the later type bottom molding and a bakelite escutcheon.

Re: Model 90 serial number - Jon G - 12-22-2010

Ron,
Thanks so much for the fast reply and information. I will wear my reading glasses tonight to see the serial number. Your website's depth of information is truely awe inspiring. This model 90 is one of those stories I hear about but never experience for myself. Answered a Craigslist ad for a Philco mod. 90 without any pictures. After several days of waiting for an answer to my email(figuring it was long gone) a very nice gentleman gave me directions to his house-he still had it. Bought it for the advertised price of $75.00 and ran. All original with all globe Philco tubes. The 47 was very weak and replaced after recapping. Plays like a dream. I will need to replace the bottom trim piece as half of it is broken and missing. There is finger nail polish spilled all over the cabinet but I dont think it will be a problem to remove. Thanks to all at this site and at Nostagiaair for their help with cap values.
Jon.

Re: Model 90 serial number - TA Forbes - 12-22-2010

Hello, Jon: THAT is a great story! You would be amazed at the number of parts available for the 90. By "trim" do you mean the base moulding? Dick Oliver sells complete sets and other cabinet parts. They are pretty good.
Tom