A beautiful Canadian Serenader Model 852S vacuum-tube radio, dating from the late 1930s/1940s era.
Serenader was a Canadian radio brand associated with Robert Simpson Company (Simpson’s) department stores. These radios are an interesting part of Canadian broadcasting and department-store history and are becoming increasingly difficult to find in attractive restored cabinet condition.
This example features a beautifully refinished wood cabinet with rounded corners, horizontal accent lines, an Art Deco-inspired geometric speaker grille, and an illuminated multi-band dial.
Condition & Operation
The radio is working and receiving stations along the dial, with the warm, distinctive sound that makes vintage tube radios so enjoyable.
The radio has been inspected:
Cabinet
The wood cabinet has been carefully stripped and refinished using a premium wax blend containing natural waxes and high-quality essential oils.
Unlike modern lacquer finishes, this traditional finish will not peel, chip, or flake. It enhances the natural wood grain while helping preserve the authentic character and warm appearance of the cabinet.
The restored cabinet presents beautifully, with attractive wood grain and period detailing throughout.
Please note: There is some unevenness/a small raised area on the paper dial face. Please review the close-up photos carefully. This does not detract significantly from the overall appearance of the radio.
As expected with an approximately 80-year-old radio, minor signs of age and use may remain and are part of its vintage character.
Video Available
A video showing the radio operating is available so you can see and hear it in action:
https://youtu.be/jnuYz59Z2O8?si=PwFZ1a7tVB3c0YQq
Dimensions
Approximately:
16.5" W × 10" H × 7.5" D
420 × 255 × 190 mm
Shipping
The radio will be professionally packed with great care to help ensure safe delivery.
International buyers are responsible for any applicable customs duties, taxes, brokerage fees, or import charges.
A Piece of Canadian Radio History
With its warm wood cabinet, distinctive geometric grille and illuminated multi-band dial, this Serenader is a wonderful example of Canadian radio design from the early tube-radio era.
It would make an excellent addition to a vintage radio collection, Art Deco or early mid-century interior, office, library, or period display—and unlike a purely decorative example, this radio can still be turned on and enjoyed.