I didn't really need yet another Vibroplex, but this one was simply too good to pass up — a 1942 Vibroplex Original in mint condition for less than $50. This included the original Vibroplex case and the wedge cord. This was an estate find from northern Indiana.
The key is mint because it apparently spent time in its case when not in use. The previous owner replaced the finger pieces, and it looks like the circuit closer switch was chewed on by a pet. It's about half missing, but replacements are readily available.
The key came with three weights, one of which doesn't look like a Vibroplex weight. It looks like something off another company's bug.
The case is in fair shape. It needs a little rehab, but its complete and in solid condition. The exterior is pretty worn. It's not worth $100 as-is, but it's still a nice addition, and one of the best ways of compactly storing a key.
I found the crinkle texture paint I need for repainting the base of my Speed-X 501 bug (the one that I made the damper for). The base has some bare metal spots and I plan to repaint the base. Right now its my favorite key, so I've hesitated to tear it apart. With the weather so crummy, I'm not sure I want to try to spray paint outside, and I'm not real crazy about doing it inside. This may be a project for warmer weather.
This key has the chromed T-bar pivot frame; I have another Les Logan Speed-X on the desk that also needs refinishing; it has the painted pivot frame. I may spray that one first. I like the feel of both keys, and Lord knows I've got no shortage of keys to run.
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I'm going to begin work photographing and documenting the keys I have. I don't know exactly how many I have, and its not much good having a collection you can't share with others. There are some really nice online key collections, and that might be something I could try too. Eventually.
I did find out that a rare key I've owned for several years is not the rare key I thought it was.
I have an very old Vibroplex knock-off appearred to be one made by the A to Z Co. of Chicago. They made a carbon copy of the Vibroplex Original and had the guts to call it “The Improved Vibroplex.”
My example was missing the ID plate — not uncommon among the unlicensed keys, because once Vibroplex began enforcing its patents, the company made it clear that owners of unlicensed keys and their employers were both liable.
The key I have was made about 1919 by the Leach Relay Co. of San Francisco, Calif. After locating several photos of original Leach keys — known as “Leach Speedoplex No. 2 keys” — I've matched mine with those.
The Improved Vibroplex is also a match with the exception of one detail — how the damper wheel is attached. My key didn't match any Improved Vibroplex I had seen to date, but it matches the Leach Speedoplex No. 2 perfectly. Interestingly, the Leach company is still in business, though they haven't made telegraph keys for 40 or 50 years.
That's it for this time …. 73 es cul de KY4Z ….. sk …. dit dit …..