Self-playing instruments have a fascination that attracts people of all ages and have done so for many years.

The origins of the familiar cylinder musical box exists in early clocks where the music was provided by a pinned cylinder activating a series of bells. At the end of the 18th century and early 19th century, technology allowed the bells to be replaced with a tuned steel comb. Consequently, the music could be much more elaborate.

Technical developments throughout the 19th century reduced the cost of these machines to such an extent that many households could afford this form of entertainment. By the late 1880's, engineers had developed a more robust system where the musical information was provided via an easily interchangeable disc rather than a more vulnerable cylinder. This system had many advantages, including the opportunity to allow the manufacture of an increasingly large repertoire of music.

The early 20th century saw the introduction of many marvellous technical advances. Recordings of live music and the introduction of the wireless made the musical box redundant. Consigned to the attic or outhouse the damp and neglect of many years punishes mechanical items until they fail to function as intended, if at all. Any mechanical device, be it a car, clock or musical box will need a degree of conservation/restoration that will enable it to provide an acceptable level of performance. Interest in antique musical boxes has increased over the past 50 years and restoration techniques have been developed to enable a musical box to provide a performance equal to that when first produced.

The intention of this web site is to invite you to view the finished item at Rye or at other events during the year (see 'News'). Buying is not compulsory, understanding the difference between 'as found' and fit to enjoy, is. Having been buying, selling and involved in the restoration of musical boxes for over 30 years, we have plenty to discuss.