Machine Age Silvertone 'Rocket' 6109 Radio Brown Bakelite

Striking example of 1930's Machine Age design designed by Clarence Karstadt

Ref: RA468

1938 Silvertone Model 6109 in Marbled Brown Bakelite.  This incredible radio is referred to by collectors and design addicts alike as the 'Rocket', and is a particularly striking example of 1930's Machine Age design. Designed at the height of the Art Deco era by Clarence Karstadt, it is clear that it was inspired by the streamlined locomotives of the time.  The radio's styling is unsurpassed, and it has been cited in a numerous books and articles as a highlight of the Machine-Age design movement. Even though it was prominently featured in all of the Sears catalogs of the time, it was not a strong seller and is extremely rare and difficult to find.

The condition of the radio is as close to perfect as you will be able to find, as this set is very prone to damage and few have survived in this great of a condition. The chassis is heavy and the case is closed on all sides. This design often caused heat build-up and eventual cracking for many of these radios thus limiting their survival.  The flawless brown Bakelite cabinet is beautifully marbleized with some lighter shades of brown as can be seen in the photos. Cabinet + trim has no chips, warping or repairs and still retains its original grill cloth and all manufacturers sticker and tags.  The matching back or side panel, by which the chassis is removed, is held on only by a single spring and often is missing or broken -- this one is perfect, with no cracks, warping, chips, or repairs. The original large Bakelite tuning dial that takes up the entire end of the radio is perfect with no cracks, chips, burns or repairs and still has the original Bakelite retaining screw also un-cracked. The 6 Bakelite push buttons on top are all original and in great condition as well, call letter papers are exact replacements.

Radio measures approximately: 12" Wide by 6.5" High by 6.5" deep.This set is sold "as-is + untested", the chassis seems complete. Set is being sold as a "non-working" vintage electronic device that should be gone over by a qualified technician.