Cylinder Music Boxes
Beginning in the early 1800's, Swiss masters began producing small cylinder music boxes, starting with "sectional comb" pieces and graduating to large and orchestral varieties.
Virtually all were produced in the St. Croix or Geneva regions, and one can only wonder in amazement that they were produced without the benefit of any electrically operated machinery or lighting!
The music boxes that you will see on this and the next several pages fall into several categories, but all have one thing in common: they were top-quality when produced and remain so today.
Mermod Freres Sublime-Harmonie Piccolo
This very large music box (about 36” long), was made c.1895 in St. Croix, Switzerland, and features three interchangeable cylinders, each 18” pinned length. The solid oak case, with integral drawer, is very impressive, with bronze lifting handles at either end.
#4007
Sublime Harmony Music Box
A large and spectacular Swiss music box by Paillard, playing as beautifully as it looks. The movement, with double spring motor, and three combs playing on an 18” cylinder in a sublime harmony format.
#4005
“Hidden Orchestra” Music Box
This fine c.1870 Swiss music box, attributed to LeCoultre Freres, comprises the bells, drum and castanets of an orchestra piece. However, and quite unusually, is that they are hidden beneath the bed plate. Only a few of this variety were made; music box makers quickly learned that their customers wanted the visual accompaniment (“en vue”) and subsequent orchestra boxes were made with the orchestra above for all to see. A rare and historical piece.
#495
L’Epee Music Box
This is certainly a rare and unusual piece. Made by "L’Epee of France, c. 1885, and playing only four tunes. In virtually perfect, restored condition, with beautifully inlaid lid and bright comb and cylinder. Listen and watch here: video
#4001