Sunday, April 24, 2011

1918 Century Electric Company Brass Bladed Fan

St. Louis-based Century Electric Company began manufacturing ceiling fans in the late 1880s.  After the turn of the century, they expanded their line of fans to include desk models, and this is one excellent example.

This fan features 10" diameter solid brass blades with a steel cage, and the motor housing and base are also steel.  The fan is a non-oscillating model with two speeds (high and low) and dates to between 1915-1918. 

Over 90 years old, the fan is in very good original condition.  There is some minor paint loss to the cage, and some light scratches and scuffs on the motor and base.  The fan operates smoothly and quietly and both speeds.  The cord has been replaced with a modern rubber cord for safety.

The fan stands 16" tall, and is 13" wide.

The nice example is ready to use and enjoy.

$95

Note:  Century Electric Company was acquired by Hunter Fan and Motor Company  around the Great Depression.  Hunter has remained in business to this day (located in Memphis, TN), and is one of the last American companies still manufacturing fans.





1950s General Electric Streamlined Oscillating Fan

In the 1940s and 50s most General Electric fans continued to reflect the streamlined design aesthetic that first surfaced in the 1930s.  This fan is an late example of that design influence, having been manufactured in the late 40s through early 50s.

The long and narrow streamlined motor sits atop a graceful curvelinear steel support that is affixed to the base.  The angle of the fan can be adjusted up and down by adjusting the support shaft to the base - a wingnut on the underside of the fan makes this easy.  The side profile of the fan is particularly impressive, as it shows off the curved support and streamlined motor.

The fan is a one-speed model and can run stationary or oscillate.  A small knob on the top of the fan motor easily engages the oscillator.  The blades are 10" in diameter.

The fan is in remarkable mechanical and cosmetic condition.  The chrome cage is bright and shiny, and the original paint is nearly completely intact with only very minor scuffs.  The four rubber grommets on the bottom of the fan - which are nearly always missing - are present and in excellent condition.  Best of all, the fan runs smoothly and very quietly and disburses a nice, gentle breeze.

An excellent example of streamlined fan design that is ready to use and enjoy.

$75





Saturday, April 23, 2011

1912 General Electric Brass Electric Fan

A fine example of an early General Electric fan, in outstanding original condition.  General Electric manufactured these fans from roughly 1910 through 1915.  This fan is a three speed (high, medium, low) non-oscillating model.  The motor may be adjusted up or down. 

Brass blades and brass cage, each with wonderful patina.  Brass fittings include cage struts, screws and nuts, oiler, trunnion bolts, and motor tag.   Gorgeous brass medallion in the center of the cage with the "GE" script logo.  The base and motor housing are cast iron.  Blade diameter is 16".  Overall dimensions are.

All parts are original expect for the cord, which has been replaced with a contemporary rubber cord. 

The fan is in a remarkable state of preservation.  There is some very minor paint loss around the base - as well as some scrapes and scratches - but apart from that the original paint is outstanding.  The fans runs strong on all three speeds.

The fan is ready for display and use.

SOLD.  Thanks, Bob @ Austin, TX!