Zenith Radio, The Glory Years, 1936-1945: History and Products (A Schiffer Book for Collectors) Paperback – Large Print, July 22, 2003

I have to start by saying I have been a collector of antique radios for over 25 years, so this book is right up my alley.I had the pleasure of meeting Dr Harold Cones at a radio swap meet several years ago, and heard a talk about the research that went into this series of books on Zenith.Zenith radios are some of the most collectable antique radios. From the radio made famous (and expensive) by the Walton's Television series, to the more common table radios, and the large console radios with the big black dials and funny green "Magic Eye" tubes. This is from an era where worldwide communication was not instantaneous, and television was but a dream.These authors had the opportunity to go through the archives of the Zenith Radio company prior to its dissolution. Zenith was the last American radio and televison manufacturer. It was eventually purchased by LG Electronics of Hong Kong.The radios of the mid to late thirties seems to be the culmination of both the woodworking art and the art of hand made electronics. This book focuses on the story behind the company and the people who designed and made the radios.There are some beautiful photographs of many of the Zenith radios made during this period. Each photograph is accompanied by a rarity value and an estimated value range. The photography is exceptional.In addition, the book has many reproductions of advertisements of the time, and many other documents that give insight to the company during this ten year period.One section that I found very interesting was composed of several drawings of possible designs for radios that were never made. These were provided by the family of the designer (Mr Budlong), and I see these designs from the early 40's look like the designs of the late 50's and early 60's, indicating that he was way ahead of his time.All in all, this is a great book for anyone who has ever had or still has a Zenith radio, or is just interested in the story of a great American company that has since faded into history.

This book is a first class production all the way, and is certain to delight any fan of Zenith radios. The high quality glossy stock supports the best reproduction of illustrations. The early B&W photos shine with stunning clarity, and the 160+ color photos (mostly of Martin Blankinship's superb collection) have a glorious fidelity and a level of detail seldom seen.This is the second volume of a two book series and focuses on tube radios from 1936-1945. (The first volume is "Zenith Radio: The Early Years: 1919-1935.")Zenith corporate history is well presented, complete with annual company reports and financial statements. Of particular interest to me were the several Zenith print ads from the era and the cabinet sketches from the engineering department of unrealized designs.Fully worth the price of admission are 41 wonderful pages of color portraits of Zenith radios. Most of the 160+ photos have a caption listing the approximate value range of the model presented.[Note: Although the Amazon description (12/09) refers to a "Database which is the most complete listing of Zenith products," the database is not included in this volume. (I assume it is in the earlier volume.) I personally would have loved to have tables in this book showing the models produced by year with some descriptive information and info on quantities produced. If needed to make room for this data, I personally could do without the chapter on Zenith hearing aids.]Bottom line: This delightful volume presents glorious documentation of a bygone era. With a list price of $35 (2009) and superb printing, it is an amazing bargain. Anyone with an interest in the subject will marvel at the delights of this volume.Tip: No value guide can account for all variables. However, if you are looking for a single-volume source of data and price information on Zenith and wide variety of other brands, I recommend the latest edition of "Collector's Guide to Antique Radios: Identification and Values."

Good book with lots of illustrations. Could have eliminated the company financial records. The landscape format of the book make it difficult to hold and read. Disappointed that more history of the Trans-Oceanic was not included. I realize there is a separate book on the T-O by the same author but there is important history that could have been repeated regarding the early Zenith Corporation. Also the T-O were a big part of Zenith sales.

Don’t count on current values as the book is outdated but great pictures, original ads and stories for an antique or vintage radio collector.

"The Quality Goes In Before The Name Goes On." Time has certainly proved this statement used by the Zenith Corporation to describe their products, at least those that were made in the United States, before the Company began outsourcing in the 1970's and the final years of the 1980's.I have a 1939 Zenith Console Radio with the "Magic Green Eye" and a Shutter or Robot Dial. It has worked well over the years with only minimal maintenance over the last 70 years. The finish on the wood is still very good, but most importantly, the Radio Chassis still works very well, with a sound quality that rivals any electronic device for sale today. And to top it off, the Radio looks back at you with the "Magic Green Eye" when you listen to the Radio, and is especially impressive at night with low lighting.

New to antique radios, book appears to be full of information.

Excellent ! If you love old Zenith radios, get this book. Lots of ads and history. From the golden age of radio...made in U.S.A. !!!

Another wonderful radio book. Some beauties in here.