Columbia AT Cylinder Phonograph — Rare First Version (1897–1898) • Fully Restored • Early Columbia Showpiece

Offered here is a beautifully restored, first‑version Columbia AT, one of the most visually striking and mechanically refined early cylinder phonographs ever produced by the Columbia Phonograph Company. Manufactured only through 1897–1898, the AT predates the more common Model A and enjoyed a short, limited production run — making surviving examples genuinely scarce, especially in this level of completeness and presentation.

This machine represents the earliest and most ornate version of the AT. Its distinctive cabinet profile, decorative front pillars, and elegant Columbia banner decal give it a refined, architectural presence that immediately sets it apart from later models. Columbia also equipped the AT with several thoughtful innovations, including the clever “pull‑out, slide‑down” lid latch, designed to secure the lid during transport and protect the mechanism inside — a charming and practical feature unique to this early design.

This particular example has just undergone a museum‑quality restoration, performed with strict attention to historical accuracy. The motor has been fully serviced for smooth, reliable operation, and the cabinet has been carefully restored to reveal the warmth, depth, and character of its original finish. The machine is paired with a reproduction nickel horn that complements the period aesthetic beautifully without distracting from the authenticity of the piece.

The nickel‑plated bedplate remains original, showing only light, age‑appropriate marks that speak to the machine’s long history without detracting from its crisp, clean presentation. Visually, the phonograph displays exceptionally well — bright, elegant, and ready for display in even the most curated collection. Columbia AT machines rarely surface, and first‑version examples in restored, ready‑to‑play condition are even harder to find. For collectors seeking an early Columbia with strong visual presence, mechanical integrity, and genuine historical significance, this AT is a standout opportunity. A beautiful piece of late‑19th‑century sound history — restored, preserved, and ready to enjoy for decades to come.