H.W.Clarke,after import restrictions came in, in 1936, asked Collier & Beale to supply them with radios. So they made chassis that Clarkes could fit into their own cabinets. In 1937 the Cromwell name was introduced in place of the earlier Radion.

This is a 6 valve broadcast chassis, although there are only 5 valves in it. When plugged in, it just has a loud hum, which doesn't change with volume control movement etc. I have an idea it may have been converted to solid state rectification, but won't know till the chassis is pulled out. The dial cord to the needle is broken, although the part to the tuner is still OK. It would appear to be of about 1947 manufacture. Obviously, the "lovely" grill cloth has been replaced at some stage. But it has been done pretty well. The name plate is taped on the front, but at least it is there!

It now runs quite well, still with only 5 valves. It has been converted at some stage. Unfortunately the dial needle is missing. The name plate has now been put on properly.

Click on pictures below for large versions.

Note the different types of wood which are not noticeable in the Before view.

This 1936/37 dual wave 5 valve radio was not working when received. I wonder why? Maybe the fact that there was a mouse nest under the chassis might have had something to do with it! There were droppings, of course, and a huge amount of hay or grass husks etc. Plus there was a hole in the electro-mag speaker of about 2 square inches, on the outer rim area. When plugged in, the 80 rectifier valve glowed red all through, indicating a probable short in an electrolytic capacitor. Sure enough, someone had replaced one of the electros, but it was faulty.  I removed the incorrect 32 mfd and replaced it with a 10 mfd and the short disappeared. I also replaced a couple of other caps at the same time. However there was now an almighty hum and scream! At least this confirmed the amplifier and speaker were working. After cleaning the screen covers around the valves and ensuring they were earthing properly, especially the 6D6, it settled down nicely.

On the electrical side of things, this just left the dial restringing, tuning and repairs on the 8 inch electromag speaker to be done. It is now working pretty well, and looking real good.

Click on pictures below for large versions.  

This 1936 radio, model 7AW, has a 7 valve, plus magic eye, chassis. It is all wave, 1 broadcast and 2 shortwave bands. It has a 12 inch Operadio electromag speaker fitted. The cabinet was made by G. C. Goode & Co Ltd. The dial has a "second hand" as well as the double ended main hand. This makes it easier to tune to the correct position next time. Especially on shortwave. The Eye is on the left, and works very well, which is a bit unusual these days. To balance that is a similar place on the right. It is labeled "Quality" on the left, "Volume" on the right, and "Band" down the middle. This lights up and shows the position of the tone, and volume controls, and which of the 3 bands is selected. This can be seen more clearly on the large picture of the dial.