This 1890's K&R Gramophone doll is one of two known to have been made as prototypes. K&R was hoping to cash in on the talking doll craze that had started with the Edison in 1890 and Jumeau talking doll 1894. However, due to the complexity and poor sound reproduction, a Gramophone was just not able to function beyond the prototype stage. This doll was found in the US in March 2010 and is the most complete and fully working of the two. The 8cm record is also one of two. We have now had the record transfered by modern technology and save for posterity.
Amazing doll. I have been looking for a video of this toy.
electronic4evr 2 months ago