Rare Musical Keywind Swiss Overture Music Box c.1840 Start Price USD 15,999.00 Current Price USD 15,999.00 Time Left - Bid Count 0 Buy It Now Price - Reserve Price - Start Time Sunday, July 20, 2008 End Time Wednesday, July 30, 2008 Location Davie, FL See more about 'Rare Musical Keywind Swiss Overture Music Box c.1840' Description  "Overture"  Music BoxLeCoultre Brothers, GenevaThis is a special type of music box that rarely, if ever, is offered for sale on eBay.  Those of you that are familiar with the genre need no explanation, but others will be asking "why so expensive", so let me explain a few things:This is a custom-made music box of the highest quality when madeThe four extended-length tunes are all overtures from famous operasNo expense was spared during manufacture to produce the finest musicOverture music boxes are considered by collectors to be the most desirable type and many are priced upwards of $50,000.A few features of this early, rare beauty:Large, 11.5"  x 3.5" brass cylinderComb has extremely fine tooth spacingSerial #12391 dates to approximately 1840Case measures 20" x 8.5" x 6"Keywind with left-side controls Engraved tune cardThis music box has been fully restored and is in superb condition.  There are no broken teeth, no damper squeaks, or other issues.  The lid, as is common with most music boxes of the vintage, is slightly warped and does not close evenly.  This neither distracts from the music or overall appearance.Going back in time to the early 1800's, the Swiss created the music box industry and enjoyed a virtual world-wide monopoly for many years.  They produced magnificently engineered music boxes, that today, almost 200 years later, are still playing and providing great music.  This is one of them.Produced in small workshops, without the benefit of electricity, they accomplished what today few, if any, makers can or care to duplicate - devices that create real, intricate music that bring life to your home.  Back in the times when this piece was produced, this was available only to the wealthy, not the masses.  Later on, when the manufacturing became more mechanized and efficient, costs came down and more people throughout the world could enjoy them as well.  The earlier ones had the plainer cases as all the effort and expense was put towards the ultimate goal, music.  However, the intricately inlaid lid on this music box indicates it was a custom-made piece of exceptional quality, destined for sale to a special client.This early example is but one of many dozens that I take great pleasure and pride of owning.  You will find cylinder music boxes in my inventory that range from the simplest to the grandest; incorporated in clocks, automatons and many other items that may surprise you; all are a treat and a joy for young and old.  TAKE A LOOK!WANT TO "BUY IT NOW?"  CONTACT ME FOR A SPECIAL PRICE....!!!  Place a Bid!