Preliminary identification
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Overview
This is the legendary RCA Victor 630TS, the first mass-produced television set sold after World War II. Housed in a rich mahogany-veneered cabinet, it features the iconic 10-inch picture tube that brought the world into American living rooms for the first time.
Story
In 1946, this was the future. While families previously gathered around radios, this 'eye' changed human history by making visual news and entertainment a shared domestic reality. It was the gold standard of early television engineering.
Maker / Origin
RCA (Radio Corporation of America) was the titan of the airwaves, led by David Sarnoff. Their 630TS chassis was so well-designed that it was licensed to almost every other manufacturer, becoming the blueprint for the entire TV industry.
Condition & Value
The cabinet shows significant veneer wear and surface scratching, and the screen mask appears darkened by age. The presence of the period-correct 'rabbit ear' antenna is a wonderful bonus, though the electronics likely require a full professional overhaul for safety. 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.