Pathé Molded Cylinder Record • No. 3585 / Transfer 60118 • Early 1900s French Issue

Step into the sound world of early‑20th‑century France with this original Pathé molded cylinder, carrying the embossed numbers 3585 and 60118 along the rim. Produced during Pathé’s influential 1902–1910 period, this cylinder represents the company’s signature dubbing process: a performance captured on a large master cylinder, then transferred into commercial molds for distribution across Europe.

Collector’s Description

This is a genuine French Pathé standard cylinder, created during the era when Pathé dominated the European market with operatic selections, popular chansons, vaudeville numbers, and salon repertoire. The 3585 marking corresponds to the original Pathé master‑series number, while 60118 identifies the specific transfer mold used in production — a hallmark of Pathé’s unique manufacturing system. It has marked “Our Stores” by “Harry Bluff”.  Pathé cylinders were never widely imported into the United States, making surviving examples far less common here than Edison or Columbia issues. For collectors, they offer a distinct sonic character: warm, resonant, and unmistakably European.

Historical Notes

Pathé’s early catalog is known for its rich French vocal tradition, featuring artists from the Parisian music halls, opera houses, and touring theatrical companies. While Pathé documentation is famously incomplete, cylinders in this numbering range typically fall within their mid‑catalog French repertoire, making this an evocative artifact of the company’s golden age.

Condition & Playback

This cylinder presents excellent for its age, with the usual signs of handling expected from Pathé’s early molded issues. Playback is compatible with machines equipped for standard‑size Pathé cylinders using a proper sapphire stylus. As with all antique media, gentle handling and correct equipment are essential for best results. Recorded in Pathé’s standard 2‑minute format (approx. 160 RPM), compatible with machines equipped for Pathé sapphire‑stylus playback.

Why Collect Pathé Cylinders

• Distinctive French repertoire not found on American labels
• Scarcer in the U.S. market
• Unique manufacturing history and numbering system
• A rewarding addition for collectors seeking international cylinder recordings

Pathé Cylinder Speed & Format

• Standard Pathé cylinders (the common black molded type) → 2‑minute format (≈160 RPM)
• Pathé never made 4‑minute wax or Blue Amberol‑style cylinders
• Their only “long‑playing” cylinders were the large Stentor and Salon cylinders, not the standard size