Overview
A classic example of mid-century American hi-fi engineering, featuring a distinctive 'graph paper' grid faceplate and a warm wood cabinet. This tuner represents the transition from mono to high-fidelity FM broadcasting in the post-war home.
Preliminary identification
Photo reference
1 uploaded photo
Overview
A classic example of mid-century American hi-fi engineering, featuring a distinctive 'graph paper' grid faceplate and a warm wood cabinet. This tuner represents the transition from mono to high-fidelity FM broadcasting in the post-war home.
Story
In the 1950s, Paragon was a boutique New York brand catering to the first generation of 'audiophiles.' This tuner brought the concert hall into the living room with a clarity that AM radio simply couldn't match.
Maker / Origin
The Paragon Radio Corporation was a smaller player in the massive New York electronics scene, often overshadowed by giants like Fisher or Scott. They focused on stylish, reliable components for the burgeoning home stereo market before the transistor revolution changed everything.
Condition & Value
The faceplate shows some oxidation and surface wear consistent with age; the wood cabinet appears intact but could use a light polish. The power cord is original and should be inspected for safety before plugging in. Non-working condition reduces value by 50%.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.