Seventeener III "New-Matic"

[Don Lindsly]

The line rate was actually 5,000 per week. There were derivitave models with a single rod antenna and plain handle. The set then evolved to 19 inch and followed with a 19 with 2 IFs. The 2 IFs had as much sensitivity as the three IF models so there was no performance loss. The 2 IF model used new hi gain IF tubes and a slightly more sensitive tuner. The handle-antenna combination remained a feature on top line models throughout the briefcase-style product life cycle.

Similar, but not identical models, were offered through different distribution channels so shoppers could not make direct price comparisons.

Overall, the product was a money maker for Philco.

[peverett]

One of mine has a single antenna coming out of the side and only a handle on top. Must have been the cheap model.

I also have a 19 and a 19 inch parts TV. These are in much worse cosmetic shape than my seventeeners. I am not sure how restoreable these are yet.

If you wonder where I got all these TVs, I cleaned out an old TV shop where the guy had a problem. He had been in business since 1945 and pretty much saved all the sets that people did not pick up. He also got sets from other repairmen.