The world was changing in the 1930s and 1940s, particularly along America's highways. In the days of the old American "Mother Roads" through the Midwest, all sorts of new businesses were springing up: motels, biker bars, petrol stations and even car garages. It was not uncommon to find a jukebox in a garage to entertain customers and pass on the sometimes exaggerated bills.
It was a golden age and these jukeboxes simply offered the best sound of any commercial music player available.
Founded at the end of Prohibition in the United States, the Rock-Ola company quickly became almost synonymous with jukeboxes, while at the same time laying down the main principles of their design. With their illuminated panels, warm woodwork and luxurious interface, these machines were impressive and instantly recognisable.
This example is a G1426, marketed under the slogan "The phonograph that sells music". These models were particularly renowned for their easy selection system. The 'line-o-selector' made selecting and playing a record simple, easy and responsive, with kinetic movement framed by a theatre curtain motif and an Art Deco-style control panel.
These 20-select machines were designed for 78rpm records, but became obsolete with the arrival of 45rpm records in the early 1950s. However, these older models are undoubtedly among the best and most distinctive in the Rock-Ola catalogue.
This example of the 1426 is in very good condition, with no cracks on the plastic parts, and the wooden panels are in excellent condition. The interior is clean and well cared for, with perfectly preserved impressions and designs. It has apparently been restored in the past, but a quick inspection shows how close it is to its original specification.
We are informed that the machine is in good working order, and nothing seems amiss inside the case.
BEFORE YOU BUY This sale is subject to Car & Classic's terms and conditions. By bidding and/or making a bid, you also agree to the following: ✓ If the seller is registered as a private seller, consumer rights under European consumer protection law do not apply. Car & Classic's returns policy applies. ✓ A non-refundable deposit will be payable if you are the winning bidder at the auction or if your bid is accepted, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for details. ✓ Buyers are responsible for delivery. Postage must be paid to the seller privately at the buyer's expense, unless other arrangements are agreed between buyer and seller. VAT is included in the deposit paid by the buyer. VAT may or may not be included in the final price of the offer or quotation, as specified in the advertisement.
Car & Classic's secure payment system protects buyers and sellers. At the end of the auction, the winning bidder transfers payment into a third-party escrow account. Once the transfer of the vehicle is complete, both parties confirm they are happy with the sale and the money is released to the seller.
More about buying with us
1946 Rock-Ola 20-Select Jukebox F1426R
Make an offer
This seller is open to offers. Enter the amount you'd like to pay and if your offer is accepted, a member of the team will be in touch.
Under offer
This seller has accepted an offer.
Click the star to watch the listing and keep an eye on it in the favourites section of your account, or search for something similar.
