Philco Briefcase 19
 

Wasn't someone in the forum looking for one of these briefcase sets a few months ago? If not, never mind . . . and sorry for the crummy phone-cam pic. Rotating handle with telescoping antenna is in good shape, nice gold finish around the cabinet sides and bezel. Stand somewhat worn around the places where you would expect wear. Current price $60 at a local mall. Too high to tempt me, but if you're itchin' for one, I could put you in touch.

Phil Nelson

I thought I recognized that set...
 

Phil, I had a Briefcase 19 portable about 35 years ago. When I saw your post it reminded me of it. Mine was a trash-day find, but it worked--and quite well, all things considered. The built-in antenna was gone, but the handle was still there and still rotated; however, I used rabbit ears and had very good reception from all three Cleveland network stations (channels 3, 5 and 8 from Cleveland at the time, early 1970s). I used that set quite a bit, especially from 1973 to 1975 after my 1964 Sears Silvertone roundie color set went bad (video output circuit board cracked when I tried to replace the 6AW8 video output tube :no:).

That $60 asking price at your local antique mall does sound high to me as well, considering that the Briefcase 19 was new in 1961--forty-six years ago. I wouldn't have paid more than $25 for that set. I don't know whether the TV works or not, but if it has problems or it won't power on at all, it may not be worth the high price that antique mall is asking for it.

Where is that set located -I'm interested. James

It's located in Snohomish, Washington (small town near Seattle).

Looking back at my first post, I don't remember months later whether the price was $60 or $160. Could have been a typo. I'm a cheapskate, but for $60, I might have just gotten it.

It's still sitting there as of a few days ago, anyway. A lot of the dealer stalls have discount signs up this time of year, so if you wanted to haggle, this could be a good time.

If you want further details (their phone number, whatever), you can send me an email via http://antiqueradio.org/contact.htm .

Regards,

Phil Nelson