Author Topic: Model T Birthdate?  (Read 2909 times)

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Offline bluetom00

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Model T Birthdate?
« on: March 02, 2006, 03:03:10 pm »
Hi everyone,

   I own a Model T that I'm trying to dig up some information on, as I'm interested in selling it and trying to gauge the market value.  I'm pretty sure it's a pre-1970 model, but other than that I don't know exactly what year model it is.  The serial # is A 05247.  Recently a supposed 1973 model sold on EBay for $1275 that had a serial number around 44000, which would indicate to me that mine is significantly older (and thus more valuable?).  Whereas the one sold on EBay had a colorless front panel, the adjustment knobs on mine have small red faceplates and the Sunn logo is a dull orange color.  If anyone can tell me more info about this model, that would be great.

Regardless of age, the thing is still the loudest thing I've ever played through, and I use a Mesa now.  In a perfect world, I wouldn't be selling this thing.  

Thanks.

Offline JoeArthur

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Model T Birthdate?
« Reply #1 on: March 02, 2006, 04:01:54 pm »
I don't know of any pre-1970 Model T's.

But with the red thingies on the knobs... do you have a switch under the middle control?

Offline bluetom00

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Model T Birthdate?
« Reply #2 on: March 02, 2006, 04:22:45 pm »
Yep, there is a mid-select switch, which originally led me to believe that it was a mid-1970s model as opposed to a pre-1973 or so.  But at the same time, I've found far more pictures of the "colorless" model on the web and virtually no pictures of this one and, coupled with what seems to be a low serial number, my assumption was that it was at least older than 1973.  

Perhaps the serial numbers were reset with the addition of the mid-switch?

Offline JoeArthur

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Model T Birthdate?
« Reply #3 on: March 02, 2006, 05:31:15 pm »
Can't answer your serial number question.  It could have even been a change in company ownership affecting the serial numbering.

With the mid switch, your amp couldn't date any earlier than 1975-1976... and I think 1976 and up is more likely.  It's what I call a "second generation" Model T.

1976 or late 1975 is when the mid-switch model appeared, and I believe with the red knob cosmetics.  At least I haven't seen a red knob without the mid-switch.

Offline Bottomfeeder

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Model T Birthdate?
« Reply #4 on: March 02, 2006, 09:05:12 pm »
Pull the amp out of it's cabinet.  There should be an inspection/test sticker on one end of the chassis.  It will have a date on it.

This is the closest I think you will be able to get.
Bottomfeeder

"If Your In Control--You're NOT Driving Fast Enough"   Parnelli Jones

Offline bluetom00

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Model T Birthdate?
« Reply #5 on: March 02, 2006, 09:20:42 pm »
Great, thanks for the info.  Now I guess it's time to find a buyer.

Offline Isaac

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Model T Birthdate?
« Reply #6 on: March 02, 2006, 10:40:57 pm »
Likewise, I've never seen red knobs without the mid switch, but my T has the mid switch without the red knobs. Who knows, maybe it's the first ever second generation T.
Isaac