Recessed Bell, Marine Band Bell, Marine Orchestra Bell, Four-Bell Savoy, University Chimes Bell

Recessed Bell, Marine Band Bell, Marine Orchestra Bell, Four-Bell Savoy, University Chimes Bell 

Images from The Alan G. Bates Harmonica Collection (6)

Recessed Bell Harmonica, ca. 1895

NMM 7848.  Recessed Bell harmonica, ca. 1895. A rare example with one bell recessed into the cover plate on each side.  Alan G. Bates Collection, 2000.

Marine Band Bell Harmonica by Hohner, Trossingen, after 1897

NMM 8884.  Marine Band bell harmonica by M. Hohner, Trossingen, after 1897. Most bell harmonicas have two bells mounted on top, like this Hohner model. The bells were played more for rhythm than for musical effect. 10 holes, 20 reeds. Alan G. Bates Collection, 2000.

Marine Orchestra Bell Harmonica by M. Hohner, Trossingen, ca. 1920

NMM 8397.  Marine Orchestra bell harmonica by M. Hohner, Trossingen, ca. 1920. Bell harmonicas were the rage from 1890 to 1930. A rare variety with tulip-shaped bells, not listed in any catalog. Alan G. Bates Collection, 2000.

Four-bell, Savoy Harmonica, Germany, ca. 1910

NMM 7734.  Savoy harmonica, Germany, ca. 1910. This is the only known example of its kind with 4 bells. Although it is stamped, Made in Germany, the maker's name is unknown. 16 holes, 32 reeds. Alan G. Bates Collection, 2000.

University Chimes Bell Harmonica, Klingenthal, Germany, 1910-1931

NMM 7736.  University Chimes bell harmonica, Klingenthal, Germany, 1910-1931. This double-sided harmonica, with 48 reeds on each side, was offered for sale in Sears catalogs from 1910 through 1931. A metal arch runs along the center line between the two reed covers. Under the center of the arch are two cup-shaped bells, one above the other. A finger-operated lever on either side of the arch allows the bells to be rung while playing the harmonica. It carries the "Beaver Brand" name, and was probably made in the Klingenthal area of eastern Germany, near the border of the Czech Republic.  Alan G. Bates Collection, 2000