Regina music box FAQ

Question: when was my Regina music box made?

Answer:

Regina music boxes were manufactured between 1894-1919.

Question: What is my Regina music box worth?

Answer:

Values could range between $300 and $15,000, depending on the style, size and condition of the machine.

Question: What size discs were made for the Regina music box?

Answer:

Metal records came in 8 inch, 11 inch, 15.5 inch, 20 3/4 inch, and 27 inch sizes.

Question: Can I play other brand discs on my Regina music box, or does it only work with Regina discs?

Answer:

In general, it will only play Regina discs. However, 15.5 inch Polyphon discs are interchangeable with 15.5 inch Regina discs.

Question: How many times should I wind my Regina music box?

Answer:

There is no set number, because this will depend upon how much tension is on the mainspring. Wind it enough to play through a single record until you get the feel of the spring.

Question: Should I run my motor all the way down when I am not using my Regina music box.?

Answer:

Leave some tension on the mainspring. If you run the motor all the way down there is always a chance that the spring may slip off its arbor.

Question: Do I need to oil my Regina music box?

Answer:

You can lightly oil any moving parts in the motor or elsewhere, but do not oil the star wheel gantry. Dirt can build up in the oily gantry and you may wind up breaking teeth.

Question: How do I turn on my Regina music box?

Answer:

On most models, swing the start switch to the right, wait a few seconds, and push it back. This will stop the record at the end of the tune.

Question: Can I clean the metal records?

Answer:

You can clean the bottom side of a corroded disc with a wire brush and a solvent such as WD40. If the projections are rusty you should throw away the disc. Broken projections can jam the mechanism and cause broken teeth.

Question: Can I get new reproduction discs?

Answer:

The metal records have been reproduced over the years, particularly in the 15.5 inch size, with mixed results. Most collectors consider the reproductions from the Porter Music Box Company to be of excellent quality.

Question: Is ebay a good place to buy a Regina music box?

Answer:

Regina music boxes can take wear over the years in the comb, star wheel gantry and damper assemblies, degrading the sound and musical experience. Restoration can expensive, far more than the purchase price on ebay. Purchase your Regina from a reputable music box dealer.