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Mid-century RCA Victor “Stetson” portable transistor radio, model 8-BT-8JE, dating to the mid-1950s. This compact early transistor set has a wonderfully period design, with an ivory case, circular tuning dial, perforated metal speaker grille, and RCA Victor’s red “His Master’s Voice” Nipper medallion.
Made in the United States during the first years of commercially available transistor radios, it is a handsome piece of early portable-electronics design with plenty of atomic-age character.
Details
Manufacturer: RCA Victor
Model: 8-BT-8JE “Stetson”
Date: Circa 1956–1957
Country of Manufacture: United States
Type: Portable transistor radio
Band: AM
Transistors: 4
Case: Ivory molded case with metal speaker grille
Dial: Circular analog tuning dial
Branding: RCA Victor / His Master’s Voice Nipper emblem
Controls: Side tuning/control wheel, on/off control, and earphone jack
Power: 9-volt battery
Additional Details
Distinctive compact rectangular design with V-shaped trim separating the tuning panel from the perforated speaker grille. The original red RCA Victor Nipper badge remains present and displays nicely.
A particularly appealing example for collectors of early transistor radios, RCA advertising and electronics, mid-century industrial design, or 1950s Americana.
Condition
Good vintage cosmetic condition with age-appropriate wear. The ivory case shows scattered light scratches, marks, and discoloration from use and storage. Metal grille and trim show surface wear and some oxidation/tarnish. Dial face shows light age spotting and wear. RCA Victor and Nipper branding remain clearly visible.
Radio has not been tested for operation and is offered as an untested vintage electronic item. Please review photographs closely for condition and completeness.
Subject
Vintage Electronics; RCA Victor; Transistor Radios; Mid-Century Design; 1950s Americana
Topic
Early Portable Radios; Atomic Age Design; RCA Victor Collectibles; His Master’s Voice; Vintage Audio
