Vintage Sounds: 1958 Blaupunkt Stereo Console and Martini Bar
Posted on 20 September 2011 by Chris
My recent travels landed me at an old friends house in Miami. Roger, known to me as “Papino”, is a Porsche owner and enthusiast of over 30 years. He’s had this 1976, 911 Targa for nearly two decades. We’ve lost count how many engines he’s gone through. Actually he just got the call a couple days before my arrival that his newest engine is installed and the car is ready for him, again!
But Porsche cars aren’t Papino’s only love. In a world of Ipods, Surround sound systems, subwoofers and God only knows what else for sound systems. Papino has a passion for vintage stereo systems. A handful of German cars built in the 50′s, 60′s and 70′s and onward came from the factory with Blaupunkt radios. But what some may not know, Blaupunkt was offering household Stereo Consoles many years prior.
This late 1950′s Blaupunkt Hi Fi Stereo System was sold new in Cuba. It made its way to Miami in the 70′s and when Papino found it, it was on its way to the dump. Papino quickly stepped in and the stereo was given to him. It did need some fixing. $50.00 later it was back to producing beautiful sounds only found in German stereo systems.
The styling just screams James Bond-007 and Steve McQueen. I love the glass sliding door in the lower center section. This was the spot where one would keep their favorite Martini glasses ready to entertain. Some models also offered a fold out serving table.
Look at the original wood. It has such a deep glass like shine.
Of course the most impressive part is the magnificent sound. The original speakers are still crisp and put out beautiful tones.
The turntable adds to the vintage appeal. Papino has a stack of 45′s that will take you way back.
If you’re looking to buy one of these units they can be had at a fairly inexpensive price. I’ve found pricing anywhere from $50.00 to $500.00 depending on where you’re located. This makes a great conversation piece and definitely something you won’t find in the next guys house. I want one.
Tags | Antique, Blaupunkt, Console, Hi Fi, Stereo, Turn Table, Turntable
January 21st, 2012 at 9:23 pm
I have one of these almost identical mine must be newer. the turntable and tuner are on opposite sides and instead of having glass sliding doors it has two solid doors. it also has legs but one is damaged . I got it at an estate sale from a slovic lady who died . I thought it was the only one in existence. its cool to see another one huh
March 26th, 2012 at 6:19 pm
I have one of the exact stereo listed above however mine has leg on it.