1938 Crosley Radio
This 1938 Crosley radio was rescued just in time, saved from a fate in the dumpster. Many vintage radios like this, when neglected, end up stripped for parts and dumped. This one was well on its way—until I stepped in.
The original finish was stripped away and replaced with three fresh coats of lacquer, restoring its rich luster. The knobs and speaker cloth were replaced, and basic wiring was completed to illuminate its stunning, polished face. Crafted from elegant walnut veneers and solid brass, this radio is now a true showpiece.
While it retains its classic charm, a hidden Bluetooth speaker inside the cabinet gives it a modern touch. The music resonates beautifully within its wooden frame, much like an acoustic guitar, producing warm, rich tones. Whether it's Glenn Miller’s swing or Pink Floyd’s psychedelic rock, this timeless beauty delivers every note with soul. It will be treasures for many years to come.
The Crosley Super 11 was a high-end radio model produced in the late 1930s by the Crosley Corporation, known for its powerful performance and elegant design. It was part of Crosley’s push into more advanced and feature-rich home radios, offering premium sound quality and a stylish cabinet to appeal to radio enthusiasts of the era.
Key Features of the Crosley Super 11
11-Tube Superheterodyne Circuit – The Super 11 was built with an advanced 11-tube design, providing strong reception, excellent selectivity, and clear audio across multiple bands.
Multiple Bands – It could receive AM broadcasts, shortwave, and sometimes police band frequencies, making it a versatile radio for international and local listening.
Elegant Cabinet Design – The radio was housed in a beautifully crafted walnut veneer cabinet, often with intricate detailing, a glossy lacquered finish, and a stunning illuminated dial.
Push-Button Tuning – Some versions featured preset station buttons, a luxury at the time, allowing users to quickly switch between favorite stations.
Large Speaker for Rich Sound – With its well-designed acoustic system, the Super 11 delivered deep, warm sound quality, making it a top-tier choice for music and talk radio lovers.
Why It’s Special Today
The Crosley Super 11 is a highly sought-after collector’s item. Its combination of craftsmanship, technical sophistication, and rich sound makes it a prized restoration project for vintage radio enthusiasts. Fully restored models can fetch a premium, especially those with original components intact.
Crosley Radios have a rich history dating back to the early 20th century, playing a significant role in making radio technology accessible to the masses. Here’s a look at their evolution:
Early Beginnings (1920s)
Crosley Radios were founded by Powel Crosley Jr., an American entrepreneur often called the "Henry Ford of Radio." In the early 1920s, radios were expensive and out of reach for many households. Crosley set out to change this by producing affordable and reliable radios, launching the "Harko"—one of the first low-cost consumer radios. This innovation helped popularize home radio listening.
Boom of the 1930s
Throughout the 1930s, Crosley became one of the largest radio manufacturers in the U.S. The company introduced stylish wooden cabinets, Art Deco designs, and advanced tuning features. Many Crosley models from this era, like the "Fiver" and "Ten", were prized for their affordability and quality. Crosley also owned WLW, one of the most powerful AM radio stations in the world, broadcasting at 500,000 watts.
Wartime and Post-War Innovations (1940s-1950s)
During World War II, Crosley pivoted to producing military equipment, including field radios and aircraft parts. After the war, Crosley radios embraced the post-war boom with sleek, futuristic designs and vibrant color options. They also expanded into televisions and appliances.
Decline and Revival (1950s-Present)
By the 1950s, competition from larger electronics brands led to Crosley exiting the radio business. However, the brand was revived in the 1980s by Crosley Radio, a company dedicated to producing vintage-inspired radios, turntables, and jukeboxes. Today, Crosley is best known for its retro-style radios and record players, blending nostalgia with modern technology.
Crosley’s Legacy
Crosley revolutionized radio by making it an everyday household item. Their vintage radios remain highly collectible, with restored models prized for their craftsmanship and historical value. The company's early innovations paved the way for modern home entertainment.