Edison Idealia Phonograph, circa 1907

Visually stunning and extremely rare, the Idelia is the ultimate Edison phonograph among today’s collectors. Introduced in late 1907, it was an attempt by Edison to break into the luxury market. (Edison phonographs had strong appeal in rural areas but were less popular among affluent urban customers.) The Idelia was priced at a lofty $125 (versus $25 for the immensely popular Edison Standard), a sum which represented nearly three months income for an average white collar worker. The cabinet was made of heavy mahogany, and the bedplate and other metal parts were finished in copper, with free-form oxidized patterns which lend it a very unusual, elegant appearance. Although sales were very small it remained in the line until 1910, by which time the even more expensive Amberola 1A was available. Very few Idelias have survived, and of those that exist even fewer remain unrestored.