The De Forest RJ-4 Audion Control Box | Serial No. 1251
An Artifact of Atomic Significance featuring the Original Spherical Audion
We are privileged to present a foundational cornerstone of the electronic age: an authentic De Forest Audion Control Box, preserved in a state that commands the attention of the world’s most discerning collectors. This is not merely an instrument; it is a tangible link to the laboratory of the "Father of Radio," Dr. Lee de Forest, and a masterwork of early 20th-century American engineering.
A Distinguished Pedigree
Manufactured by the De Forest Radio Telephone & Telegraph Co. in New York, this specific unit, Serial Number 1251, represents the pinnacle of the "Improved RJ-4" lineage.
Dating to post-August 1914, this later-production iteration is distinguished by its refined five-step "B" battery voltage selector and the coveted late-version brass identification nomenclature.
The Heart of the Instrument: The Spherical Audion
Central to this acquisition is a genuine, period-correct De Forest spherical Audion tube. In a rarity for components of this vintage, the filament remains intact and demonstrates excellent continuity (measuring 0.9–1 Ohm). The presence of this delicate, functioning glass vacuum represents a singular opportunity for the connoisseur of scientific history.
Curated Versatility
This particular cabinet features a rare and fascinating architectural detail: a dual-configuration mounting system. Equipped with the original bolts where the upper binding posts for a tubular Audion would reside, the unit was engineered for exceptional versatility, allowing a seamless transition between the earlier tubular glass and the advanced spherical Audion included here.
Provenance & Aesthetic Condition
* The Cabinet: The hand-finished wood housing retains a deep, evocative original patina. The minor marks and character lines acquired over the last century serve only to authenticate its journey through history.
* The Appointments: The original brass components remain in superb condition, offering the warm, authoritative luster sought by collectors of fine scientific brassware.
* Interior Artifacts: Nestled within the cabinet are three original Type 703 batteries—rare historical survivors that complete the narrative of this machine.
The Acquisition Process
We recognize that an instrument of this magnitude requires an uncompromising commitment to stewardship. To ensure its continued preservation:
* White-Glove Preparation: The fragile Audion tube will be meticulously decommissioned from its socket and double-encapsulated for transit.
* Secure Transit: The shipment will be dispatched with full valuation insurance and professional-grade architectural packing.
This is a definitive opportunity to secure a primary artifact of the wireless revolution. We invite you to examine the accompanying gallery, which serves as the final word on the exquisite condition of this piece.
Should you require further technical clarification or bespoke arrangements, we remain entirely at your disposal to ensure this is a seamless and fabulous addition to your collection.
We will do our best to make this a fabulous acquisition. If you have any areas of concern, please drop us a line.
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Original De Forest RJ-4 Audion Control Box S/N 1251 w/ Spherical deForest Audion Tube (filament across socket measures 0.9-1 Ohm)
Offered here is a truly remarkable and authentic piece of radio history: an original De Forest Audion Control Box, Serial Number 1251, complete with a genuine deForest spherical Audion tube. This is not a reproduction. Manufactured by the De Forest Radio Telephone & Telegraph Co., in New York, this unit represents a pivotal moment in the dawn of the electronic age.
This particular example is a desirable later production model, distinguished by its 5-step "B" battery voltage switch and the late-version brass identification tag.
Advertised as the "Improved RJ-4" type, dating it to post-August 1914. Critically, the filament in the Audion is good and has continuity.
A unique and fascinating feature of this cabinet is the presence of two bolts where the upper binding posts for a tubular Audion would have been located. This configuration made the unit exceptionally versatile for its time, allowing an operator to easily switch between using an earlier tubular Audion and the more advanced spherical type included here.
This is an exceptional opportunity for the serious collector of early wireless apparatus, scientific instruments, or technological artifacts to acquire a cornerstone piece from the laboratory of "the Father of Radio," Lee de Forest.
Key Features & Details:
Item: Audion Control Box
Manufacturer: De Forest Radio Telephone & Telegraph Co., NY USA
Serial Number: 1251
Authenticity: Guaranteed original, not a modern reproduction.
Version: Later production model, identified by: 5-step B+ voltage switch. Late-style brass ID tag.
Included Audion Tube:
Type: Spherical Audion
Condition: The filament is tested and is GOOD.
Unique Cabinet Feature: Equipped with bolts for mounting the binding posts for either a tubular or spherical Audion, allowing for dual use.
Included Accessories: Three (3) original Type 703 batteries are present inside the cabinet. Please note this is short of a full complement.
Condition:
This is an antique collector's item, well over a century old, and is being sold in "as-is" condition. The wooden cabinet shows a beautiful original patina with minor scuffs and marks consistent with its age and use. The brass components are in excellent original condition. The unit is untested beyond confirming the filament continuity of the Audion tube. Please examine all photos carefully as they are a primary part of the description.
Shipping:
This historic and fragile instrument will be packed with extreme care, with the Audion tube removed and packed separately within the same shipment to ensure its safe arrival. Shipping will be fully insured.
Do not miss your chance to own this foundational piece of electronics history. Please feel free to ask any questions before bidding.