[Aage]

Zenith made a lot of great radios, and they seem to carry higher prices for similar models of other makes of their period. Their designs were often ahead of the competition, and some styles, such as the "shutter dial" models are satisfying sets to own and just look at, and even more fun to operate.

A shutter dial is hard to miss: round dial with a black background, and when you switch bands, the dial scales move like a camera shutter. Quite impressive.

Addison made a lot of catalin radios, but their wood and plastic models are often highly desireable too.

If you want to buy a selection from your local seller, might be good to decide now (if you can!) whether you want to specialize right away in some style or type of radio, or have a wider sampling of the many different types that were sold back then.

I agree with your comment on consoles (floor models): they eat space. I managed to get five into the house before I realized that the future of continuing in that direction would force me to start moving furniture out. Wife and I agreed that while they were lovely, it was necessary to be able to sit down.

Portables can be fun. Interesting styles, often more colourful. Many times they didn't get the use of a table radio, since they would only be taken out on holidays or vacations. They can be made to play on modern batteries without a lot of work. Plus, they're smaller...

I would be tempted to ask the seller what he would buy in your place. After all, who knows the collection better than him?