Original Wurlitzer 1015 78 RPM Juke Box

Step Back in Time with an Original Wurlitzer 1015: A Restoration Dream!

For collectors of vintage Americana, music enthusiasts, and anyone captivated by the golden age of jukeboxes, an extraordinary opportunity has emerged: an original Wurlitzer 1015 78 RPM Jukebox awaiting restoration!

This isn't just a piece of furniture; it's a tangible link to a vibrant era of music and design. Imagine the crackle and warmth of 78 RPM records filling the air, selected from this very machine. This Wurlitzer 1015, a true icon, is a complete unit ready to be brought back to its former glory.

A Glimpse into Jukebox History

The Wurlitzer 1015, affectionately nicknamed the "Bubbler" for its mesmerizing display of colorful, bubbling tubes, debuted in 1946. Designed by Paul Fuller, it became an instant sensation, symbolizing the post-war optimism and the burgeoning popularity of recorded music. Its Art Deco-inspired design, with its illuminated cabinet and visible record selection mechanism, captivated audiences in diners, malt shops, and gathering places across America.   

The 1015 was a technological marvel for its time, capable of holding and playing 24 different 78 RPM records – offering a diverse soundtrack to the era. Its visual appeal was just as important as its sonic capabilities, making it a centerpiece of any establishment lucky enough to house one. The "Bubbler" wasn't just a jukebox; it was an experience.   

This Survivor: A Canvas for Restoration

This particular Wurlitzer 1015 is a beautiful survivor, retaining its original finish cabinet with tight veneer and good plastics – a testament to the quality of craftsmanship of the era. Even now, when plugged in, the box and amplifier lights illuminate, offering a tantalizing glimpse of its potential. It even retains its original coin mechanism and coin grinder, hinting at the countless nickels and dimes it once collected, providing the soundtrack to countless memories.

However, this grand machine is ready for its next chapter. It currently does not accept coins and will not select records, and the keys are missing, presenting an exciting project for a dedicated restorer. This is a chance to delve into the inner workings of a legendary jukebox, to bring its mechanical heart back to life, and to witness the magic of its record selection process firsthand.

An Opportunity for the Discerning Collector

Measuring 60″ tall, 33″ wide, and 25″ deep, this Wurlitzer 1015 is a substantial and impressive piece. Once restored, it will be more than just a jukebox; it will be a stunning centerpiece, a historical artifact, and a working testament to a bygone era.

This is a rare opportunity to acquire an original Wurlitzer 1015, a true icon of American design and musical history. It awaits the skilled hands of a restorer to once again fill spaces with the warm sounds of 78 RPM records and the captivating glow of its bubbling lights. Are you ready to bring this beautiful survivor back to life?

This item will be Lot #2086 in our upcoming Spring Classic Auction on May 29-31 at Donley Auctions.