A beautiful 1937 Detrola Model 136 featuring an exceptional Art Deco wooden cabinet, oversized multicolor dial, and distinctive waterfall styling.
The cabinet is one of the highlights of this radio. Rich walnut veneers, softly rounded front corners, and sculpted fluted side speaker grilles give it a striking architectural appearance.
At the center is the radio's most eye-catching feature—its large illuminated Detrola dial. The warm amber illumination, detailed multicolor markings, gold-tone bezel, and classic Detrola graphics create an impressive display, especially in lower light.
Manufactured by Detrola in Detroit, Michigan, the Model 136 dates to approximately 1937. It is a six-tube superheterodyne receiver designed for both broadcast (AM) and shortwave reception.
Working Condition
The radio is working and picks up a couple of local stations on the AM broadcast band; however, static is present during reception.
The shortwave band is not currently picking up stations.
Cabinet Features
* Original wooden cabinet
* Original dial plate
* Original grille cloth
* Original factory labeling
* New dial cover
Cabinet Restoration
The original wood cabinet has been carefully stripped and refinished using nitrocellulose lacquer, the traditional type of finish used on wooden radios of this period.
The restored finish beautifully emphasizes the different grain patterns throughout the cabinet.
The front features warm, flowing wood grain framed by softly rounded waterfall corners, while the sculpted side sections incorporate deep vertical fluting around the speaker openings.
The lacquer provides a rich, period-appropriate gloss that highlights the natural beauty of the wood while maintaining the character of this nearly 90-year-old cabinet.
Design Highlights
Oversized Illuminated Dial
The large multicolor dial dominates the front of the radio and features intricate broadcast and shortwave markings, classic Detrola graphics, and warm illumination.
Figured Walnut Top
The top displays particularly attractive figured walnut grain, creating beautiful variations in pattern and tone as the cabinet is viewed from different angles.
Art Deco Waterfall Styling
Rounded front corners flow smoothly into the sides, giving the cabinet the streamlined appearance characteristic of 1930s Art Deco design.
Fluted Side Speaker Grilles
Deeply sculpted vertical side grilles are one of the radio's most distinctive design elements and give the cabinet an architectural quality when viewed from an angle.
Specifications
Manufacturer: Detrola
Model: 136
Year: Circa 1937
Country: United States
Manufactured in: Detroit, Michigan
Type: Vacuum-tube table radio
Bands: Broadcast (AM) and Shortwave
Current Reception: AM receives a couple of local stations with static; shortwave is not currently receiving stations
Cabinet: Wood / walnut veneer
Dimensions:
14" W × 7" D × 10" H
As an authentic vintage radio dating to approximately 1937, it shows signs of age and use consistent with its history.
Shipping
• Professionally packed with great care to help ensure safe delivery
• Local pickup available in Oakville, Ontario, Canada
• International buyers are responsible for any applicable customs duties, taxes, brokerage fees, or import charges