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Posted 10 months ago
TGBWC
(185 items)
I figured....since Daddy_Nobucks just bought a vending machine, and I've seen a few more recent posts, I would post my baby on here. Don't know why I never posted it earlier....
The Vendo 44 is Vendo's smallest/skinniest machine. It only occupied 1.57 sq. ft. Measurements are: 57 and 1/2" high, 16" wide, 15 and 1/2" deep. This beauty is from the early 1950s.
I bought it around 1995. All original, unrestored condition, as far as I can tell. Still runs, still cools. Very cool to get an ice cold Coca-Cola from this machine. Takes me back. Oh wait, I never remembered this machine as a kid. But it still takes me back. I think I bought this for $1,200. Now, these are worth around $4,000.
Personally, I think an unrestored one is far more valuable than a restored machine. Too many times I cringe when I see restored machines. Basically sand-blasting all of the history and character away, repainting, replacing new parts and in most cases, adding pin-striping, Spriteboy decals and other decorative decals that never were on originals. IMO, you have a brand new, shiny red metal box with no character anymore.
There are two totally different markets for these machines: the collector market and the "game room" market. The die-hard Coca-Cola collector will choose an unrestored, original machine over a restored one. Whereas, the guy looking to buy one for his game room, doesn't care about historic significance. He just wants a shiny, brand new looking machine and doesn't mind plunking down $6,000 for one.
Which market are you?
Coca Cola MachinesIn the early part of the 20th century, most corner grocery stores kept thei…
What a gem.
Love the originals, but very very hard to find an original in this condition, very impressive!
Totally agree Ray. To me, they're like old rare coins or a quality antique piece of furniture. You don't touch'em, just look at all the history in every dent or blemish. Refinish it and you've erased all that. I would never refinish or restore any of my Coke items for this reason. Now dirt? That's something else altogether.
Very nice, Love it. What if it was an old classic car...wouldnt you restore it? I'd rather see a restored machine than a worn out rusty one...well usually..unless I'm the owner.LOL
Yes, cars are different Ed.
EJW: Yes, I would restore a car...exactly to the vehicles original style. Unfortunately, too many Coca-Cola machines are being "restored" with added bells and whistles that were never on the original. That's like restoring a classic car but then adding different side mirrors, running boards and embellishments that were never on the classic car.
That's a beauty!!! When I had one of my machines out on the deck, all the neighbors loved buying a Coke for 65 cents. Classic and ice cold
Here's a good (or bad) example of someone taking an original Vendo 44 and pretty much ruining it. http://www.ebay.com/itm/Vendo-44-Coke-Machine-/271020853532
Who could NOT love this machine!?
I am helping restore this exact machine with the paint work and decals....we are looking for the "Union Made" oval decal on the back. I can reproduce it though, if I can find out exactly what it says but will pay almost anything (reasonable) to get this sticker asap!! I live in waterloo, ontario, canada so if you even know a dealer or someone around here that would have an idea of where to research this that would be of trememdous help!!!
Thanks!!
I have one of these with rare factory option handle and caster wheels on the back of the machine. Original condition as well, Great Machine!!!