Early Keywind Musical Swiss LeCoultre Music Box An Heirloom Musical Treasure GREAT Holiday Gift!!! Start Price USD 1,599.00 Current Price USD 1,599.00 Time Left - Bid Count 0 Buy It Now Price USD 1,799.00 Reserve Price - Start Time Sunday, November 30, 2008 End Time Wednesday, December 10, 2008 Location Davie, FL See more about 'Early Keywind Musical Swiss LeCoultre Music Box' Description KeyWind Swiss Music BoxThis is an excellent example of an early "keywind" music box, made in the 1845-1850 period after sectional combs but before the invention of the 'lever wind" system.A few features of this early, rare beauty:10" long x 2" diameter cylinderComb is stamped "LB" (LeCoultre Brothers)Serial #24502Control levers for stop/start, instant stop, and change/repeat on the left sidePlain fruitwood case with string inlayThis fine music box is in remarkably good shape for it's age.  The mechanism was restored a few years ago and it plays great, with no damper squeaks or other issues.  There is no tune card.Going back in time to the early 1800's, the Swiss created the music box industry and enjoyed a virtual world-wide monopoly for many years.  They produced magnificently engineered music boxes, that today, almost 200 years later, are still playing and providing great music.  This is one of them.Produced in small workshops, without the benefit of electricity, they accomplished what today few, if any, makers can or care to duplicate - devices that create real, intricate music that bring life to your home.  Back in the times when this piece was produced, this was available only to the wealthy, not the masses.  Later on, when the manufacturing became more mechanized and efficient, costs came down and more people throughout the world could enjoy them as well.  The earlier ones had the plainer cases as all the effort and expense was put towards the ultimate goal, music.   SHIPPING:  After payment is received, I will take this to "The UPS Store" for professional packing and fully insured shipping.  They will contact the buyer with exact shipping costs and payment for this is made directly to them.This early example is but one of many dozens that I take great pleasure and pride of owning.  You will find cylinder music boxes in my inventory that range from the simplest to the grandest; incorporated in clocks, automatons and many other items that may surprise you; all are a treat and a joy for young and old.  TAKE A LOOK!  PLEASE NOTE: This music box, as are all of my offerings, are not "fix-me-uppers", problematic, or otherwise in need of anything but a new home.  Indeed, my entire house is filled from top to bottom with music boxes, phonographs and clocks, every one of which is in perfect order and enjoyed regularly.  For many years, my musical collection has expanded and tested the space limits of my home and the patience of my long-suffering wife, who occasionally demands space to display items from our other collections.  You can be assured that whatever your purchase, your complete satisfaction is my one and only goal.  All are offered with 100% return privileges as well.  Place a Bid!