Classic music boxes are often passed down as an heirloom from one generation to another; despite the modern day CD players, music boxes have retained their charm and elegance. A novelty in 1796 when they were invented, these music boxes were inspired by the carillon bell towers seen all across Europe. These bell towers used the same music generating technology which comprised of a rotating barrel with cogs that helped to strike hammers on tuned bells, creating a melody.
The history of classic music boxes
The classic music boxes were made possible after the introduction of the tuned steel music note also known as the tooth; the tiny device was invented in the 18th century and made it possible for the watchmakers of Switzerland to use their creativity to fuel an entirely new industry, that of music boxes. The sector grew rapidly as the the demand for music boxes increased across Europe and the United States.
The tiny melodious creations were used for a plethora of purposes; some were small enough to fit into a gentleman's pocket and were designed to hold snuff while other were large enough to house hats when not in use.
However, the vast majority of them were show pieces that would make their way to the tabletops of the rich and elite of the time.
The unprecedented progress of the industry led to a hiring spree and at one point almost 100,000 workers were devoted to manufacturing classic music boxes for patrons on both sides of the Atlantic. Some of the popular manufacturers of music boxes included Nicole Freres, Reymond Nicole, George Baker, Paillard Vaucher Fils P.V.F, B.A. Bremond, L' Epee, Heller and Baker-Troll among others.
The offerings includes a myriad of objects with a musical heart at their center such as the sublime harmonie, bird boxes with mandoline and orchestra cylinder music boxes. However, the cylinder music box industry experienced a set back in the 1880 that it could not rise out of when the interchangeable disc box was introduced to the world.
Patrons would not longer had to resign to listening to the same tune over and over again. These interchangeable disc music boxes, as their name suggested, made it possible for the purchaser to go out and buy multiple disc for the music box, a new disc could easily replace the old one changing the melody.
The classic music boxes of today!
Today, only one Swiss maker still manufactures classic music boxes while a Japanese company Sankyo dominates the market with a large range of products that includes jewelry boxes, toys and other novelty items. So, it goes without saying, that if you own one of the classics, you have an expensive piece of musical history in your hands which should be cherished and maintained. Here are some tips that will help.
Maintaining classic music boxes
Keep them away from moisture and direct sunlight. Depending on the material that the music box is made if, it would be best to shield it from environmental elements.
Metal boxes should be wiped regularly, you can also use a mild cleanser to keep the surface clean and bright.
The musical moment will corrode if not operated. So, ensure that you regularly use the music box.
Oiling the moment is another way to ensure that it stays working as good as new.
If you are interested in purchasing classic music boxes, your first choice should be a cylinder box and then one with interchangeable discs. There are several small companies that offer an assortment of items such as crockery, jewelry holders and time pieces with a musical movement in them; these make fabulous gift items.