05-20-2013, 03:49 PM
I do think Zeniths have gotten over-rated over the years, expecially the 38-39 models and of course the Walton sets. That said, I have found my 'Brand Z' collection actually growing. A little tip a Zenith collector I know gave me last night: Look for the 1942 and possibly even the 1941 models as these are being largely ignored by the more fanatical Zenith collectors and often go dirt cheap. These are the years I keep finding and I aimed towards the even less wanted radio-phono consoles. I just picked up a nice 8-S-661 console at a rummage sale a couple weeks back for $50 and it's a nice performer and the Zenith guy pointed out that it is just as good as any high priced 38-39 model of the same tube count. Currently I have five Zenith consoles (inluding an odd and rare prewar transformerless model) and they have been about as cheap as a nice Philco in price around here.
No matter where you go, there you are.