Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Bob K on April 20, 2005, 01:31:52 pm I got a call on my ad for soda machines last week, and the first thing the lady said was "I don't have any soda machines, but I do have an old gumball machine".
I'm not well versed in gumballs, but I went for a look since it was a few miles from my house. It wasn't anything great looking to me but when I got home I researched ebay and it seems they go for a few bucks. It is exactly like this one except it is red: http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=6167778056 I was surprised to see a plastic (square) globe, I would have thought the old ones were all glass. The plastic is broken - I have no idea if you can get a replacement globe. It has two slots. A penny gets you one turn, a nickel gets you five. I put a penny in but it seemed to be jammed up. No keys for the two locks. It was half full of 30 year old pistachio nuts . I offered $10.00 (she didn't accept) as I didn't think it was worth much, but seeing this one on ebay makes me think I should call her back. Any info on this machine and whether replacement parts can be had? Also, what should I offer? Thanks, Bob Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Eric on April 20, 2005, 02:37:48 pm Oh yeah.... Just bought a 1940 Northwestern Gumball machine this past weekend
that's why I road tripped. I have about 6 differnet ones now. Cheaper than soda machines and cheaper to restore.....something to do between soda machine finds. Try www.crowriver.com I bought a Simpson Jr. this past winter... $250 sold on eBay $1800 it was from the 1920s...... You gotta love coin-op stuff...... Ask her for more information.... Let her know you didin't know it was old then ask her what she'd take then offer a little higher..... $75 ...$100 Some of the plastic globes go back to the 1940s.... Crow River Trading may have a replacement if not call them they may be able to send you in the right direction. I've bought from them.... I'm new to these but with the price some of them bring they are good investments too and still pop up at swap meets and flea markets. There's a guide book/price guide I don't have it here handy but I got it off eBay best $20 I spent (I had it with me at the auction when I bought that Simpson) Otherwise I would have past on it. I'll let you know.... Good Luck Eric Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Eric on April 20, 2005, 04:36:27 pm Hmmm.... didn't sound right... I meant ask what she'd take... IF she doesn't
know offer her more than last time ( $50-$100) NOT ask her what she wants, she gives a price then you offer her more.... She'll think you're crazy?!!?? Sorry..... Nice machine... I need one of those too........ then I'm done. Eric Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Kilroy on April 20, 2005, 05:12:22 pm I've ordered parts, and received good service from Antique Gumball Co.
I'm partial to the Ford Gumball machines.... Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: dr galaga on April 20, 2005, 05:16:34 pm This is the Northwestern De Luxe. It was first produced in 1936 and didn't stay around long because it had a complicated mechanism (which is why it seemed jammed). They came in red, yellow, white, black and green porcelain. A 1995 price guide says it is worth $125. Probably a little over $200 would be realistic today.
Here's another picture http://www.arcade-museum.com/game_detail.php?game_id=1850 Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Eric on April 20, 2005, 06:23:29 pm Here's one of those books on eBay now #6172587911
Handy little book, Pocket Guide to Coin-Op Vending Machines.... If you like the machine offer her $50... Eric Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: dr galaga on April 20, 2005, 06:42:15 pm
Is this a nice book? My price came from the price guide that was included with Silent Salesmen Too http://www.gameroommagazine.com/bk_silentsales.htm Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Eric on April 21, 2005, 07:56:16 am Yeah it's a great little book.... and of course I can't find it!!!! I had it with my Walters book
......anyway...... great color images, prices, it was done in 2002. The author also recomended that Silent Salesman book (which I've seen and that book has a lot more machines) This little book is just the right size to carry with you from shop to auction. Eric Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Bob K on April 25, 2005, 11:10:48 am Thanks guys, I ended up paying $45.00.
I'm disassembling it to clean it up and get it working. Turns out the coin mech works perfectly. The vending wheel seems really tight - too tight to be turned by the crank handle. It does turn if I tap the sprocket with a hammer and screwdriver. Any advice on how to free it up? Looks like it has white calcium/lime buildup going on in there. I'm not sure how to get the vending wheel mechanism out. Eric or Dr galaga, any words of wisdom... Bob Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Eric on April 25, 2005, 12:22:24 pm The price guide I was talking about.... I found it... You should buy one you'll get hooked.... anyway....the author has a phone number in there if you have questions about
machines 414-768-1076 his name is John Carini and he's from out of Wisconsin. That's the number in the book. That machine books here at $200 and came with both a plastic and glass globe. from the 1930s..... I wanna see a image of your new find. There's a cleaner called CLR you can get it ACE Hardware and a few other places I'm sure....It will clean that white/greenish calium right out! It'll foam up and be gone then just rinse and clean 'er up! That's a classic looking machine good score! Eric Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: dr galaga on April 25, 2005, 08:38:42 pm I'm really not sure how you would get it out. Teh mechanism seems a lot different than the ones that I have (60's).
Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Bob K on April 25, 2005, 09:31:12 pm Well after I eyeballed it for a while, it turns out the entire vending mech comes out by removing two wingnuts - D'oh!
I submerged it in CLR. Hopefully it will loosen up. Thanks guys, Bob Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Eric on April 26, 2005, 09:34:37 am Don't leave it in CLR for long. It should do the job though.
That stuff is probably salt and oils from the nuts that where in it. CLR and hot soapy water........ Eric Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Eric on April 26, 2005, 09:35:15 am Don't leave it in CLR for long. It should do the job though.
That stuff is probably salt and oils from the nuts that where in it. CLR and hot soapy water........ Eric Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Eric on April 26, 2005, 10:28:02 am Bob...
Also check out: www.gumballkingsdecals.com Your machine could use the decal #132 I believe for the penny nickel combo. Eric Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Bob K on April 26, 2005, 11:00:18 am Thanks Eric. That's the decal alright. However, finding a replacement globe (or any parts for this machine) will be a problem according to Roger at Crowriver.
Eric, although this machine was being used as a nut vendor, I could still vend small candy or gumballs, correct? I figure if it can vend pistachio nuts, it can vend PEANUT M&M's . Or does the vend wheel limit you to what you can vend? Thanks, Bob Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Eric on April 26, 2005, 12:25:51 pm If it can fall throught the product wheel it can vend it. Gumballs, M&Ms it can do it.
Call that number (414-768-1076) and ask John about a globe.... I'm sure there's one out there. I'm sure there's a club too that could direct you. I'll email a couple guys tonight when I get home... and get them on the look out too. Eric Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Bob K on April 27, 2005, 11:14:22 am Thanks (again) Eric.
I called John and he is going to have a new batch of my style globe made in a few weeks. Thanks for the tip. I'm enjoying working on a restoration where I can't electrocute myself Bob Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Eric on April 27, 2005, 11:30:01 am Wow!.. He makes them?.... plastic or in glass?
Yes I agree they are much, MUCH easier than restoring a 81! Post images..... Oh yeah.... you're getting hooked! I find myself searching eBay for odd candy machines now...after a hour of hunting soda machines! Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Bob K on April 27, 2005, 12:45:32 pm He has them made in plastic by a small company. He's done batches of these before and is down to his last one, which he needs to use as the template for the new batch.
He said my machine was fairly common - nothing too special. I'll post a BEFORE picture when get home tonight. It's totally disassembled now. Soaking in soapy water . Hopefully that wheel will loosen up. Bob Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Eric on April 27, 2005, 02:30:33 pm It's funny..... in “His” (Gumball Machine) World they may be... but I've yet to find one...
It's like our “Soda World” where Westinghouse Coolers are common.... Yet when someone starts to collect you can't even find a picnic cooler. Glad you're able to bring this one back..... A nice machine for your first small coin-op vending machine. Eric Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: johnieG on April 27, 2005, 05:41:34 pm Neat! I've got a friend mentioned in another post that is retiring soon from the coinop business & he has a (I belive it to be any way) a Victor-Topper penny gumball that he want's me to auction off on ebay & I'm trying to get an Idea of a price/value range, the globe (he said is original from when his dad bought it.) is square glass instead of the typical round.. have a look see..
Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: johnieG on April 27, 2005, 05:46:45 pm he also has a "Columbus" model "F".... it's really nice! again, any help to be had would be appreciated...thanks! John
Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Bob K on April 27, 2005, 06:02:54 pm Way cool, johnieG!
As promised, here is the BEFORE picture of mine: It was really filthy and the nut oils jammed things up pretty tight. The soapy water is doing the trick, though. Bob Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: dr galaga on April 27, 2005, 07:21:11 pm johnieG- I'll check my books, but will not be able to until tomorrow.
Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Bob K on April 27, 2005, 08:58:06 pm I just received my book
John, the Columbus F is pictured. Per the book, it's a 1910's peanut vendor and the price range is $750-950 (add $40-60 for an original Columbus barrel lock). I can't find the one with the big square globe. Bob Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Eric on April 27, 2005, 09:50:38 pm Hmm.... That Columbus looks like a Model A (Carini book pg.53 -UL )The F is wider at the bottom.....
The Victor is late 40s early 50s the different globe looks like a 3 or 4 lb globe (how much product it can hold) The Pocket Handbook I have doesn't show that style globe.... But it being smaller, glass and a unquie neck I bet it could bring $150-$200. The Columbus model A shows in the book to be worth less ($200-350 I bet it would bring more. ) It's been painted which really won't hurt it and it had the embossed globe...which is good. Book prices doesn't matter in eBay world.... What someone is willing to pay. Good luck Eric Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Eric on April 27, 2005, 09:52:10 pm I bet that's a 5 lb globe on the Victor.... it is wide.
Very cool..... Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Eric on April 27, 2005, 09:56:44 pm Columbus will go higher .... check this one out...eBay # 6173174895
Eric Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: johnieG on April 28, 2005, 07:02:57 am
Thanks everybody for the info,as I have some Idea what gumball's go for, but very little in this area of collectables. I've double checked the model no. on the Columbus & it is indead a model "F" with it's original cast iron stand. the Victor-topper also has it's original stand, I've already listed his Adams 6-column gum machine as he wanted it listed, (http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=6173262128&ssPageName=ADME:B:LC:US:1) if anybody wants to take a peek , I personally think his reserve is set too high, but I'm only listing it on my Ebay acct. it's his stuff & he's really helped me out over the years with his spare parts bins for my soda-machines a very nice guy! Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Eric on April 28, 2005, 10:00:13 am Not that this matters... I'm no expert on these, I just bought this book 3 months ago and only have a few so far.
But the book says a F model is cast iron with two front feet. Does It say F on it somewhere? Just want to know these better.... They can bring good money. If I could scan this I would. That F looks different than the F model in the book.(Book could be wrong or there could be differnet versions of this model. Anyway... He'll have a few gum machine know-it-alls asking him and telling him more than he'd ever want to know about that machine when he places it on eBay. He should offer the option of with or without the stands. Some won't bid because of the price to ship the heavy stands. That's how I won a set of 1950 Acorns They where on the stand and nobody wanted it (They had a set shipping price of $50 So I asked if I bid and won would they take them off the stand and reduce shipping? They did and I won.... Just a thought. Eric Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: dr galaga on April 28, 2005, 07:19:42 pm The Victor Topper with extra capacity globe has a price of $80 in my 1995 Silent Salesmen Too book.
That Columbus looks like a model A to me too. Model F has a price of $600 and the A is just marked Rare. (sorry for the crappy pics) Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Eric on May 07, 2005, 12:10:58 am Hey Bob hows the Northwestern Coming?
Eric Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: sodaworks on May 07, 2005, 09:40:29 am Hello Eric,
I have an old Regal products 1 cent gum ball that you insert the penny and slide the handle across the front towards the left. The glass cylinder resembles that of a visible gas pump cylinder. Does your book show any info. on this? I can post a picture if you need to see it. Thanks Terry Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Bob K on May 07, 2005, 11:20:45 am Hi Eric:
Coming along well. It's cleaned and assembled and vends like it's 1936! I'm waiting for the globe to be made, and I also have Roger at Crowriver sending me some locks. There's one just like mine up on ebay right now: http://cgi.ebay.com/ws....MEWA:IT Looks nice and doesn't need a thing. Last I looked it was at $66.00 and holding - but has not met reserve. Terry, I looked in my book and it shows three Regals with the cylinder shaped globes. One is cast iron and prices at $75.00-$150.00, and the other two are aluminum at $75.00-125.00. I'm new at this so Eric may have more info. Bob Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Eric on May 07, 2005, 09:36:09 pm No... I'm a check the book kinda guy too.... I'm just as new. I do know that the cylinder is the older model...
Then they went to the pear shaped in the mid 40s... Hang on to that one......... And yes post a image....love to see it! I have 3 of my Acorn machines stripped gonna do some Hammerite Painting when the weather good! Eric Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: sodaworks on May 08, 2005, 01:57:20 pm Thanks Guys,
Will post pictures soon. Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Eric on May 16, 2005, 10:26:51 am Bob...
There's another 36 NW on eBay no globe... BUT... he says he has a glass globe that he will be selling also on ebay I don't have the item number but it's (machine) is on now. Eric Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Bob K on May 16, 2005, 10:52:53 am Eric, I saw that and scrambled to find the globe but someone had already "bought in now" at $150.00.
Bob Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Eric on May 16, 2005, 11:06:14 am I hate that! It must have already been sold as of last night cause I couldn't find it either...
I thought he hadn't put it on yet..... But see they do pop up and the one you were watching a while back went, I think, at $12X.XX...... Will keep looking...... Eric Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Bob K on May 16, 2005, 12:10:47 pm Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: on May 21, 2005, 03:04:27 am I went out garage sale shopping this morning (Friday) for two hours and I found and bought 5 gumball machines!
I've never seen even one at a grage sale before and today I found 5. I paid $10 - $15 each for them! The ones with the stands were just $10 each (including the stands)! Now I know the two with stands are probably more for home use, but you can't beat the price, especially with the stand. I know nothing about gumball machines, but it was fun to get these today. The other 3 will clean up nicely, I haven't even started cleaning them, but I took a few pics. Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: on May 21, 2005, 03:05:35 am I love the firm price they set for selling it:
Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: on May 21, 2005, 03:07:04 am And finally a close up of the other three:
Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: dr galaga on May 21, 2005, 08:33:49 am Those Komet's are nice machines. I have one myself http://www.arcade-museum.com/game_detail.php?letter=K&game_id=3340
Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: on May 21, 2005, 08:39:52 am Doc,Thanks for the link. Only the one on the far right is missing the little barrel lock (on the very top) and key. I assume I can find one on eBay?
Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Kilroy on May 21, 2005, 09:30:45 am 'Kito finding a lock on Ebay shouldn't be a problem at all. I've picked up parts for my Ford Gumball on Ebay, Or Google for gumball parts, there are many suppliers out there - bulk gum new decals, etc.
and hey,, a gumball machine or 2 or 4 in the gameroom is almost a requirement Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: dr galaga on May 21, 2005, 10:26:44 am
Some machine locks are a little different from each other. Let me see if I might have an extra one that will fit the Komet. Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Bob K on May 21, 2005, 12:18:39 pm Way to go, 'kito!
Just think of how many gumball machines you can fit it your minivan!! Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: on May 21, 2005, 02:15:03 pm Hee hee! Thanks guys!
Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: dr galaga on May 21, 2005, 09:13:50 pm Looks like I have a lock. PM me your address Markito.
If you ever make it down to the Chicagoland Show, there is a lady that sells decals and I think I saw some Komet ones before. I think it's still the widow of the Gumball King (Marshall Larks) - one of the nicest guys I have ever met. This guys store was totally unbelievable. Two storefronts and a few basements of almost any part that you would need and all of the rare machines was just shocking (that's how I was able to get my NOS Titan globes). He passed away awhile ago and I heard that they sold off everything. Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Bob K on May 22, 2005, 07:32:38 am Eric pointed me to this site for the decal for my Northwestern 36. I think this is the late Gumball King's site. A LOT of decals to choose from .
http://www.gumballkingsdecals.com/ Bob Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Eric on May 23, 2005, 07:07:47 am Way to go on the Komets - 3!!!! What was the price for those?
Yeah! they're great finds when soda machines don't pop up (and something to fall back on) While waiting for that Soda find. And about a fourth of the price!!! SWEET!!!!! Oh yeah your hooked! The two on the stand are nice... But the other three! Yeah great score!! Eric Bob K there was another 36 like yours on eBay finished out at $27X.XX Did you see the Atlas machine someone turned into a lamp!!!! Ahhhhh!!!!! Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Eric on May 23, 2005, 10:28:10 am I'm begining to believe you need 2 gumball machines to every 1 soda machine
so I need four more.... then I feel the ratio will need to be higher They are just as fun to hunt.... there are 100s of different models and vintage..... And again..... when you can't find that soda machine..... a little machine like these makes you feel better... Happy hunting! Eric Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Bob K on May 23, 2005, 11:05:09 am Eric - I saw that Atlas!
Gumball machine are SOOOO much easier to get into my basement... I think we some pictures of yours, Eric Bob Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: on May 23, 2005, 11:05:20 am Thanks Eric, I got the 3 Komets for $15 each! And then the red one on the stand was $15 and the copper one on the stand was "$10 firm". LOL!
Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: on May 23, 2005, 11:08:24 am
Thanks so much Doc! Just FYI, I don't need the long metal threaded piece that runs from the top of the machine to the bottom. I only need the barrel shaped lock at the very top and its key. Please let me know what I can pay you back. Thank you SO MUCH! I'll PM you right now. Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Bob K on May 26, 2005, 03:34:29 pm I picked up the new globe today - the plastics guy did a great job, it looks like glass.
So here's a couple of "after pictures": Bob Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Bob K on May 26, 2005, 03:43:08 pm Oh, and those are DARK CHOCOLATE peanut M&M's. Yeah, life is good...
Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: on May 26, 2005, 03:56:45 pm Bob, it looks perfect!
By the way, I don't normally like dark chocolate, but I LOVE the new dark chocolate M&M's! Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Creighton on May 26, 2005, 04:23:13 pm Great job, Bob!!
Off to the store to try and find M&M's, didn't know they came that way. Creighton Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: johnieG on May 26, 2005, 04:24:20 pm Sweet! (literally!) ...Nice job! PS... if you're hooked on these now...I just relisted that Victor-Topper on Ebay again for my buddy...he's lowered the price & is included the stand too!
Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: dr galaga on May 26, 2005, 06:48:36 pm Nice machine!
(I must really be out of the loop - dark chocolate M & M's?) Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Eric on May 26, 2005, 06:51:11 pm WOW!!!! You gotta be hooked now!!!!!
Bob that looks awesome! Aren't you glad you went back and got that! It really turned out great! Big swap meet here in St. Louis over the Holiday weekend! Gonna be looking for these littles guys (since the V56 these will be about all I can afford). I'm gonna save that image to my candy machines folder. That is a classic looking machine. Anybody else got cool candy machines?.... Eric Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Bob K on May 26, 2005, 08:09:55 pm johnieg, what is the item number on your buddy's machine?
Bob Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: dr galaga on May 26, 2005, 09:09:14 pm I think this is it: http://cgi.ebay.com/ws....me=WDVW
I came across it by accident, of course I won't mention the key word spamming in the listing! Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: on May 27, 2005, 03:12:05 pm Wow! The "1934 Adams Gum Vending machine" just sold early for $450.00 via Buy It Now!
Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Creighton on May 27, 2005, 06:28:07 pm OK,
Well I feel left out, so going to fix that :-) I've had a couple of cheapo GB machines for years. Time for a couple of good ones. What is the pro's take on this one? Victor Baby Grand Also need a Ford chrome anything to watch out for on those? Thanks! Creighton Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: dr galaga on May 27, 2005, 07:56:30 pm Looks like a nice little machine. Isn't the Chicle gum a little expensive though?
Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Creighton on May 27, 2005, 08:30:00 pm He he,
Thought the same thing :-) I remember "Bazoka" was a 2 cents and you got a goofy mini comic book to boot. Have a bid in on a clean Ford. Mom started me putting money in the bank when I was 6. The teller would always give a penny for me to run through the Ford for a gumball. Things sure have changed. Creighton Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: johnieG on May 27, 2005, 09:49:39 pm
Here it is...I've been told that it's unusal that it has such a tall/large "throat" (where the Globe meets the round-base/collar) & the globe is glass... opps lets try again!... http://cgi.ebay.com/ws....IT&rd=1 Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: johnieG on May 27, 2005, 09:56:54 pm
Yep! he's a happy camper...last time around it didn't get above $225.00...I'm just listing his stuff for him as he's been a real mentor into the addicting hobby of soda-machines! he lets me paw through his parts bins an dshares his contacts & leads too, & he's trying to gather up all of his old manuals to donate to me...in which case I can make them available to the site too...he getting ready to retire soon, probably by the onset of winter...he's even selling off his old 60's T-bird... Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Eric on May 28, 2005, 08:18:49 am Creighton....
The Baby Grands are ok but that has too much damage to the wood, I think..... You can't go wrong with the classic Topper/Victor and the work horse of the 40s /50s Oak (Acorn machines) these models don't go crazy ( unless you're bidding on that rare one that has that funky globe and neck that johnnieg relisted for his friend, That one is pretty unique)... Also there are the Northwestern models. Oak machines you can still find on routes.... Though common... I still love that machine. I have 4 (one with the acorn embossed on the globe) the embossed globes are reproduced and bring somewhere around $45 dollars themselves.... The one I bought via eBay I got for, I think, $35... a little elbow grease and a little paint and you have a new little vending machine friend for you soda machine to talk with. Crow River carries a lot of repro globes and the are attached sites in this thread for decals and I think that crow river site (I think crowriver.com) I'll have to look it up. Anyway another vending type machine that affordable and brings back memories of the trips to the barber and the old 5 $ dime store on the corner of town for me. Good luck... Eric Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Bob K on May 28, 2005, 04:32:31 pm I remember the Oak Acorns as a kid, so they are pretty cool to me .
I can believe they are still out there, what a workhorse!! Gotta get me one if I'm ever goin to meet Eric's 4 to 1 ratio . I've got a ways to go, as I currently have 8 Coke machines and ONE gumball!!! Bob Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: loman4ec on May 28, 2005, 05:20:37 pm I just got my first gumball machine a few days ago. It is an old topper that my father had started working on a long time ago and never finished. It is completely taken apart but all is there but who knows if I can get it together. Does anyone know if they make manuals for these machines?
Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Eric on May 28, 2005, 07:16:17 pm loman.... call that John I had Bob K contact his number in on this thread he could talk you through it...
They are pretty simple.... A Topper?!!?? Great score.... gotta remember him on fathers day! I have a Topper coming...I did a deal with a retired vender (answered to one of my ads) bought a '33 Northwestern machine and I had him hold the topper he had a long with some old Acorn parts he has in his garage.... He knows what he has, which is cool, just gotta save up and go back down to his neck of the woods and pick this stuff up. 8 to 1 ain't bad considering you got such a cool machine Bob..... Again it turned out really nice. Eric Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Creighton on May 29, 2005, 01:20:09 am Eric,
Thanks for all the info!! Think I'll pass on the baby grand and study up a bit. There will be another. Do want a Ford. Take it they are common and no big deal. Nice to shop for new toys that aren't $1000.00 plus. Creighton Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: on June 01, 2005, 12:06:05 am
galaga M.D., The little lock and key arrived in the mail today and upon opening the envelope I ran straight to my machine. It fits absolutely perfectly and holds it all together. Thank you so much for your thoughtfulness and generosity. You have made me very happy. I love our helpful family here. Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Eric on June 07, 2005, 01:14:25 pm Hey JonhieG...
What did your friends Columbus F (A) sell for ?..... I missed it! Did he do well?...... Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: johnieG on June 07, 2005, 05:43:38 pm he didn't make his reserve, I can ask him if he's still going to market it if you'd like...I think it's an "A" model myself
Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Eric on June 07, 2005, 07:02:21 pm Too rich for me I'm a find 'em and fix 'em up kinda guy.... I still have to pick up a Topper
I have waiting for me so I can get some images for Josh..... Just painted two Acorns with Hammerite Blue and the other Rustoleum Red this weekend (between the Honey-Do list)... will get some before and afters after the decals come in. That paint is great!... hides screw ups and it's tough! Thanks though! He should put it on again.... Only bad thing is that model was repro'd probably hurts it a little. Try without the stand .... most don't want to pay extra for the shipping of the stand. And most collectors I know have them all lined up on a shelf anyway... just a thought. Eric Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Bob K on June 07, 2005, 09:06:53 pm Eric, I picked up an old Acorn recently that needs a paint job. Is the Hammerite a spray bomb application? I'm not familiar with that brand paint.
Ever think of powdercoating the Acorns? Or is that overkill? Bob Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Eric on June 08, 2005, 07:12:24 am Ha! Yeah it's a spray bomb “Do-It-Yourself” in the back yard application.
I have 4 acorns and sandblasted them at a friends shop I then bought a light blue and a mint green in this brand (Hammerite brand get it through www.eastwood.com) It gives a texture, has resin and glass in it.... TOUGH paint!!!!!! and gives a super finish. (Ace carries a simial brand just as good but the light blue looks more grey) But this type paint looks like the original finish though the colors aren't quite the same. I did spray one with a red rustoelum and it was a “bomb” the spray paints in a can just don't do it.. Not enough hardener I guess... So I will strip that one and two tone it mint green and silver Hammerite Brand. I'll post a few pics. there's a guy on eBay (seller: luvgum) that Hammerites his machines Great finish I just don't care for some of the color combo's ... He two tones them all. Powder coating would be great just kinda pricey as these are so available... But I would like one done in classic red or two tone red and a cream...... I want to get a 1 cent 5 cent combo acorn... I'd powder coat that red and cream and get that cool decal acorn with the 1 & 5 cent on it! Anyway the all light blue one turned out nice ...it's close to the original and I'm going to need to get a few decals but I'll try and put up some images tonight so you can see the finish... It's hot right now in Missouri (92°) so I paint them and leave them outside for a week to bake! Eric Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Bob K on June 08, 2005, 07:35:38 am I know the decal you are talking about - that big ol' Acorn with the 1c/5c instructions on it. Super cool!!
Do you have to prime before you spray Hammerite? Bob Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Eric on June 08, 2005, 08:10:20 am No primer.... straight on...... course mine are sandblasted and have a little “tooth” to them
and since these are aluminum it won't rust...... so I didn't. Eric Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: on June 08, 2005, 10:51:16 am Eric,
Is was your Hammerite in spray cans? What is the Ace brand called? Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Eric on June 08, 2005, 12:32:04 pm Yeah it come in spray cans I think it's Rustoleum brand at ACE the other is
HAMMERITE also in spray (www.eastwood.com) I think Central Hardware use to carry this brand too. They make a Bronz/Gold too, There's also a Red that's good I tried another type red just doesn't hold up though... I'll stick to these hammertone paint for these gumballs (unless I get a 1&5 cent then I'm gonna powder coat.) I think powder coat would be cheaper than taking it somewhere and getting it painted. Theres a hammertone silver that a lot of guys use to paint there Soda Machine liners with.... looks good. Eric Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: on June 08, 2005, 03:09:45 pm Thanks for the info.
I've read all the discussion on hammerite for the soda machines, I just wish it were sold more locally rather than ordering online and waiting. Thanks so much. Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Eric on June 08, 2005, 03:21:35 pm Check with a Lowes or Home Depot if you have one in your area.... They should carry it also Ace Hardware... If they carry the spray can or can they should be able to order you the
other.... Also look up Hammerite on the web that's how I found that brand... and their service dept. found who carried it in my area..... The seller on eBay (luvgum) buys it by the case (a case is 6 cans) when he goes to the Chicago Show up North... There's a chain of Hardware stores there he buys it at (Lowes type) so maybe it's a “Up North” type chain/store cause I had to order the Hammerite Brand (which of course I like better) 'kito good luck! Eric Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Eric on June 08, 2005, 09:00:20 pm Here are 3 of my Acorn machines before...
Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Bob K on June 08, 2005, 09:05:51 pm Eric, you've inspired me. I'm converting my Acorn to a 1c/5c combo. Now I've gotta order that honkin decal...
Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Eric on June 08, 2005, 09:07:01 pm And here are 2 of them painted with the Hammerite paint...
The third I painted with a red rustoleum....ughhhh so I will strip it and give it a 2 tone job..... This paint is really great and you can ask anybody using the silver to paint their liners of their soda machines it really holds up! Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Eric on June 08, 2005, 09:08:52 pm Here's the two 2-tone color combos I like...
Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Eric on June 08, 2005, 09:14:32 pm Now there's a 1 & 5 cent acorn on ebay right now but watch it... It doesn't have the debossing of
the 1 and 5 on front of the mech... Also the 2-tone machine on the left of my examples... if you look close it has a embossed acorn in the globe.... these are around $65 themselves (I think) sold on crowriver.com So when bidding on one on eBay watch for those... I bought my 4th on eBay for $37.XX and it had an embossed globe. The 1 & 5 cent Mechs seem to be hard to find by themselves but if anyone finds one (or 2) I can't speak for Bob K... But I'd like one...... Thanks Eric Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Bob K on June 09, 2005, 07:16:15 am Eric - I'm sure you've run across an ebay seller by the name of mikecoinop. I've got two of the penny/nickel combo coin mechs coming from him. Strangely enough, he had no other denomination mechs - just the combos. I would check with him as I got the impression that he had more. He charged me $19.95 apiece, which I was fine with.
Those Acorns you painted look FANTASTIC!! The green is outstanding. Really nice job, Eric. Bob Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Eric on June 09, 2005, 07:33:08 am Wow... I think he's the one I email last night looking for one... yeah I'd pay $20..
really would like one. Thanks Bob... Just painted them in stages in the back yard....Yeah I like the green....it looks like that mint green that was so popular in the 50s... I think I'd like to try and 2-tone one that green and silver I think that would look killer. Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Bob K on June 09, 2005, 03:17:14 pm Hey look at that - another topper with the huge globe like johnieg's buddy's:
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws....94&rd=1 Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: on June 10, 2005, 10:47:44 pm I was at a garage sale today that had 5 cool old gumball machines! A round Ford one plus acorn, etc. I was so excited, but most were around $100.
I didn't have that kind of money to spend, but if they were cheaper I would have grabbed all 5. Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: johnieG on June 11, 2005, 05:44:36 am
Interesting, figures though, when one sells successfully on Ebay, more come out of the woodwork! he made one error in the listing, it's not "all cast Iron" this vendor is cast zinc/potmetal & sheet steel, only the base is Iron, sometimes the base will be filled with plaster to add weight, but you are correct, it the same model with that giant 3-pound globe & the large throat...this one has a counter-top stand/base (a "shoe" , or so I've heard it called) mine had a flate plate with a pipe flange screwed onto it for the stand) Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Eric on June 11, 2005, 05:59:32 pm Hey 'kito check eBay prices then go back... Yeah he probably won't sell them at those prices at a yard sale (unless a collector comes by) Maybe he'd do a all for one money deal.... Check the Acorn for embossed glass globe and if
the mech is a penny & nickle combo.... Ford if it's painted and older or if it has a Marque on top is a plus... Tell them you have someone interested (me) and see if they'll let to take a photo and you'd get back to them.... I (and a few others here ) could tell what they're worth ... you maybe could make some money on them (it's all about saving and barganing for that ultimite find.) These are good little machine to resell... Heck he may have a rare one and not know it... I got all excited about a garage sale in the paper this morning that said gumball machine but it was one of these newer ones... Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Bob K on June 11, 2005, 09:58:19 pm Eric, did Mike get back to you on the penny/nickel coin mechs? I got mine yesterday - very nice.
I keep going back to your picture of the green Acorn. I'm deciding what color to do mine. That green is killer. If I don't powdercoat then it's Hammerite green for sure... Bob Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: on June 12, 2005, 03:32:43 pm I know at least one of them was a 1 & 5 cent machine.
I'm not sure if I remember which location, but I'll try to remember. Thanks. Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Eric on June 12, 2005, 03:58:59 pm Bob...
It was the same guy I contacted... Mike... I have one coming now too Thanks....and I have decals coming from Barbara Tucker there in Illinois... So it won't be long till these guys are put backtogether. I still need to strip that red one and 2-tone it. 'kito hope you can remember.... get images if you can... Man cool garage sale in your area... neatest one I ever went to was when I was just out of college and hadn't started collecting (lack of cash) a couple was having one and it happened that the guy was a Coca-Cola collector he took us throught their home... He had a lot of Cardboard signs and metal signs throughtout his house and he had a pool table, ping-pong table, pinball machine, Astroids arcade game and a Cavalier 72... I thought he was the coolest guy. Eric Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: on June 12, 2005, 04:54:00 pm Right now I just drove back to where I thought it was and there was no garage sale. I then went up to the house I tought it might have been and rang the bell. An old lady answered and honestl said that they didn't have a garage sale this weekend. Then I drove all around and can not remember.
So now I am about to check the newspaper and see if they listed a garage sale ad this weekend. Now I want to own these machines really badly. I'll let you know if I can track them down. Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Eric on June 12, 2005, 07:03:23 pm Ha! Sounds like a bad dream...... Hang in there.......
It happens to us all..... If it's meant to be... it'll happen. Eric Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: keithm on June 15, 2005, 07:33:33 pm Does anyone know anything about Victor Eagle candy machines ? This guy is vending golf balls and I was just interested to see if this machine is a nice one or anything else you guys may know ?
Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Creighton on June 15, 2005, 08:20:58 pm That's funny!
Set'em up right next to the water trap/woods :-) Creighton Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Eric on June 16, 2005, 06:27:50 am There where two like that on eBay a few nights ago... Seemed to being
bringing good money for such a bulky squared off machine... But it is a good idea to put out on a course and that's probably what they're thinking. Was originally for the .25/.50 capsul type toys but a golf ball is perfect for that product/wheel. I like the Oak (Acorn) machines... also the Northwestern 33, 49 and 60 models, Regals, Toppers... All cool and not too crazy money .... for now.... But there are models that go up to $2000.00+ Eric Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Bob K on June 16, 2005, 07:16:43 am Eric,
I see these Universals pop up from time to time: http://cgi.ebay.com/ws....IT&rd=1 Obviously make by Oak for the private label, right? Do you think an Acorn glass globe could be installed on one of these? These seem a bit more tricked out, with the chrome base and the neat flapper with the Americas design. Sure would look nice with an Acorn embossed globe Bob Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Eric on June 16, 2005, 08:21:50 am Yeah the body and neck (I am 99% sure) are the same piece though I think
I'd leave these the way they are cause of the chrome corners holding the plexi glass pieces. Cool and different, there's also one with a Liberty Bell on the flap..... Would make a nice red, white and blue machine. Save that embossed globe for a penny nickel combo! Eric Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: on June 16, 2005, 11:50:21 am
Well, after many days, I finally narrowed it down to a house and then rang their doorbell. They said that they did have a garage sale and that they were selling the gumball machines. About 5 of them sold at the sale, but the guy collects them, so he still has a lot of them. He invited me in and showed me the ones that he has displayed around his home. This guy is as obsessed with GB machines as we are with soda machines! Anyway, he was willing to sell, but I just don't have money to buy any right now. I sneaked a bunch of photos for you guys with my phone as he was showing them to me. He had no idea I snapped the shots. I'm so sneaky. So I will not be buying any, but if any of you guys are interested, I'm sure he'd sell. I got his name and phone number. Unfortunately he doesn't have email. His prices aren't dirt cheap because he sems to know a lot about the machines and collections. But I don't know anything about GB machines, so maybe his prices are alright. Here are the photos: Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: on June 16, 2005, 11:51:04 am Next:
Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: on June 16, 2005, 11:51:47 am Next:
Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: on June 16, 2005, 11:52:28 am Next:
Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: on June 16, 2005, 11:53:12 am Next:
Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: on June 16, 2005, 11:54:02 am Finally:
Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: on June 16, 2005, 11:54:40 am Oh, and I forgot to mention, none of the glass globes had embossing.
Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Eric on June 16, 2005, 12:08:07 pm Yellow one with the pear shaped globe is a regal, the chromes with round globes are
Fords (The red Ford one is older), the tall yellow/red is a Vendorama, the three on the table, middle is a Oak (Acorn) with Victor Vs on either side.... Most should be around $100 (Per eBay prices I've been watching with the Vendorama being the cheapest. I'd be interested in the Victor Vs on the table and the Yellow Regal.... I've seen the Victors a couple nights ago restored for BIN $99. Way to go 'kito..... By the way there's a yard sale I'm going to preview tonight that has 2 soda machines. One Pepsi Vendolator squartop looks to be the size of a 81 and a shorter Coke can machine (I think 4 push button on the front) wood grain, with a COKE plastic sign on the upper half VERY early 70s.....$75 each...... Finally a 'kito yard sale in my area...... Eric Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Bob K on June 16, 2005, 03:21:22 pm I'm restoring one of those Vendoramas as we speak. I think they are very cool machines, but only with the glass globe. I'm not crazy about the "half-cabinets" with the plastic fronts.
Bob Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: keithm on June 16, 2005, 08:10:57 pm
Eric, When you say good money, what are you talking about ? The guy is selling it for $60 including golf balls . Thanks, Keith Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Eric on June 16, 2005, 10:19:36 pm That's good money for such a generic, bulky (ugly look'n) machine. they usually bring $10-15 (golf balls is probably
what they're after! Columbus', Simpsons and several little machines from the 1920s bring the bigger money This little Simpson of mine... I paid $250 got $1800 as is on eBay. I need about 10 more of them so I can get a Pepsi 81 round top...... Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Eric on June 16, 2005, 11:05:59 pm I guess I should have been more clear on “good money” in the gumball world.... sorry.
To me, (And I just started collecting these since December) it all depends on what you like (same with soda machines) These squared off machines are cool with the right decals and color combos.... but when they look like the one with golf balls... without the golf balls most would pass it up looking like that. It needs a paint job and a little TLC. As with soda machines I'm more a 1950's model like'n guy... Love the Oaks and Northwesterns! “Good-money” to me on a swap meet find $50-$100... “Big-money” on these little machines $500-$900 “Too much money to burn they gotta be crazy... It's just a little gum machine-money” $1000.00+ Check out a collector I met while selling my Simpson Jr... This is just a corner of his collection room. There's about 4 grand sitting on this corner table... Beautiful.... It's what you like and how much you can pay... to me $60 bucks is a lot for a newer machine... Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: on June 16, 2005, 11:18:24 pm Wow! A whole different world to me.
Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Bob K on June 17, 2005, 07:17:34 am Wow, what a collection...
Eric, you must have been downright giddy when your Simpson sold for 1800 balloons... What a score! Bob Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Eric on June 17, 2005, 07:44:45 am All thanks to that little guide book on gumball machines I bought... I had it in the truck when I went to the auction.... Whew!.... Best $19.95 plus shipping and handling I ever spent! Ha
Eric Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Eric on June 23, 2005, 10:54:57 am Hey Bob K!
Just got my 1 & 5 cent mech from Mike ... nice condition.... also got the decals from gumballkingsdecals.com .... When I get these together I'll post some after images.... Josh my Topper machine is on it's way! I'll post images of it soon as it gets here! Bought a decal for it too.... But will need a new lock for it. Does anyone know where to get a lock for a Topper machine? Thanks Eric Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Bob K on June 23, 2005, 11:57:58 am That's great, Eric.
Does your combo mech have the spring on it to snap it back into position? Mine does not. Seems strange to have to turn the handle counter clockwise a bit before you put in a coin. I don't remember doing THAT as a kid... Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: on June 23, 2005, 12:47:03 pm Does anybody know anything about this gumball machine? I got it from my Grandparents estate. My grandpa had a store back around the 50's.
Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: on June 23, 2005, 12:48:01 pm Sorry the picture did not get attached
Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Eric on June 23, 2005, 01:00:09 pm I'll have to look it up when I get home in my book!
Very Cool though!!!!!! Looks to be in Great Shape too! Bet that caught a lot of kids eyes when they walked into the store... Bob I'll have to check... don't remember... I two-toned the machine silver and light blue hammertone (Rustolium brand from ACE Hardware) I'm gonna try and sell a couple on eBay then I think I want to get a 1 cent and a 5 cent both oak/acorns then I'll have all three versions.... Sounds like something a 40 year old guy needs right?..... Eric Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: on June 23, 2005, 04:38:32 pm Wow! Great rocket!!!
Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Kilroy on June 23, 2005, 08:29:14 pm Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Eric on June 24, 2005, 06:59:23 am BC...
According to my book you have a CARLTON ROCKET - 1950s gumball vendor. “This large plastic machine is shaped like a space ship. The price for this machine varies greatly depending on quality of the plastic. A very popluar machine, even with non-gumball machine colectors. $75-$175.” -John CArri, author “The Pocket Guide to Coin-op Vending Machines.” 2002 And thats a 3 year old book. Very Cool.... Looks to be in good condition with original decal/label. Nice keep sake from the store. Eric Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Bob K on June 24, 2005, 07:21:10 am That rocket machine is the bomb!! Straight out of the "Atomic Age". If Elroy Jetson ever bought a gumball, that was the machine...
Hey Eric, good advice on keeping an eye out for ebay Acorns that have the embossed globe. I recently picked one up. Is the small 6 lb. globe the only one that was embossed? I guess I'm pretty much an addict now. I dropped off two machines at the powdercoater yesterday. This can't be good... Bob Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Eric on June 24, 2005, 07:54:20 am Morning Bob!
Hmmm don't know.... crow river sell a embossed 6 lb.... I'd bet they 'd know..... Ahhhh you'll think not good till you see these little guys restored... Want to see the how they come out powdercoated! That may sway me to do a couple in colors you can't get in Hammertone colors. What colors are you doing them in?..... Eric Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Bob K on June 24, 2005, 11:19:22 am Quite honestly I think the colors I used are going to suck. I ordered 1/2 pound containers of Olive Green and Cream from Eastwood. I thought that would make a great looking two-toner. When I got the powders I sort of changed my mind, but I used them anyway since I had spent the dough. That will be a 1c/5c combo machine.
The other machine getting coated is a Vendorama glass top. That will be red and yellow as they all seem to be. I was pleased that he's charging me only $50.00 to coat everything for both machines. Sounds reasonable but this is my first experience with powdercoating so what do I know... I'll post pics when I get them finished. Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Eric on June 24, 2005, 12:58:31 pm Really... that's a deal on powder coating... The minimum here is $75
That vendor I bought my Northwestern 33 has a garage full of Oaks (I'm guessing 50+) but I think he's a little high $65 a piece he also has about 5 Vendoramas but I think they where all plastic globes But I like the looks... very 50's... But I think he wanted around $50 for one unrestored. I'll get caught up in these Oaks like I did with 302 Western Electric telephones and end up with about 30! Ha I'll need to narrow this down... But there are so many neat little machines....... Eric Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: on June 27, 2005, 09:27:28 am Thanks for everybodys information about the Carlton Rocket gumball machine.
Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Eric on June 29, 2005, 07:57:34 pm Well here's the Victor Topper that I just got...
Paint is a back yard 2 cans of spray paint special.... But it'll do for now.... I think.... Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Eric on June 29, 2005, 08:02:03 pm Bob...
Here's the two Oaks I backyard specialed with Rustolium Hammertone Paint and applied decals. One in two tone silver and light blue the other light blue from Hammerite the blue are slightly different. And a Northwestern 49 NOS.... Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Eric on June 29, 2005, 08:08:51 pm And here's my Northwestern 33 porcelin
nice clean original. Then my Vendo Coin Changer and just a couple of my pre-war phones. These phones haven't been restored yet..... All these phone have matching numbers on their parts... hard to find as phones when serviced often had parts replaced. The 302 on the bottom shelf with no dial is a metal bodied 1941 Western Electric phone (I only collect WE as I work for Bell) ...all dates are Dec. 5 1941... 2 days before Pearl Harbor........ Anyway... some pics for you all to see.... Someday I'll get around to getting images of all my stuff.... Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: dr galaga on June 29, 2005, 08:18:03 pm I like the changer!
Looks like the shelving unit is as old as the stuff that's in it! Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Bob K on June 30, 2005, 06:54:49 am Very nice, Eric!!
That 1c/5c in the middle is how I'm going to assemble the machine that's getting powdercoated. I like your color scheme better. Olive green and cream - what was I drinking?? So do you have a preference as to Hammerite vs. the Rustoleum Hammertone? Also, is the combo mech spring loaded? Bob Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Eric on June 30, 2005, 07:14:20 am Bob no spring in the 1 & 5 mech (another mech I have on the green one doesn't have one either... it's a .25 mech)
The paints seem the same. I just liked the blue and Mint Green from Hammerite... I can't find a light green in Rustoleum brand they have a dark green, gold, silver, grey and a bronze though.... The colors you picked out sound very 50s so don't be down on it... It'll stand out from all the red Oaks out there. Yeah the shelving was from a old radiator shop... it had a price I couldn't pass up....free A good friend gave it to me... Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Bob K on June 30, 2005, 03:23:30 pm Eric, do those phones take digital pictures?
Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Eric on July 01, 2005, 08:49:22 am No but I wish they could talk... The stories that went over those lines......
Eric Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Bob K on July 04, 2005, 07:39:10 am I got the two machines back from the powdercoater and they're assembled and ready to rock. The lock that you see on the Vendorama is for a drawer that pulls out to access the money. It also exposes the wing nut to disassemble the machine. Very nicely designed. The globe is THICK and very heavy.
Don't laugh at my military issue Acorn . I feel like I should stencil MASH 4077 on the side. I actually managed to pick a powder coat that has no shine. My wife loves the color combo, I'm wondering where my head was at . Sorry about the size of the picture. I'm having trouble with my Adobe Photoshop. Bob Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: dr galaga on July 04, 2005, 10:59:42 am Looks nice. Mind if I ask how much it cost you to get them painted? Did you have to do all the prep work?
Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Bob K on July 04, 2005, 12:43:53 pm Dr. G,
I had them sandblasted first, then I had them powdercoated (not painted). Powdercoating all the parts for the two machines was $50.00. Bob Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Creighton on July 04, 2005, 03:06:58 pm Bob,
Those look great! Creighton Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Eric on July 04, 2005, 11:05:56 pm Hey Bob they look great! The Vendorama chrome... was nice to start with? It all looks like a new machine!
I gotta get one of those now! Oak looks good to!Price was good too for Powder coating! What is the era of the Vendorama?..... So what's next?... Another Oak... Different model? Eric Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Bob K on July 05, 2005, 07:21:59 am Eric,
The Vendorama chrome was toast when I got it. The coin mech was a disaster and missing half its handle. There's also a neat chrome strip that runs horizontally under the coin mech - that too was corroded. I found a real clean coin mech on ebay for $6.99(!). Roger had a box of Vendorama parts and was able to come up with a clean lower chrome piece. He stocks the rubber feet also. I was told it is a fifties machine, but it looks more sixties to me. Very well made. I stripped the paint off of another Acorn yesterday, I may go with that Hammerite green you used. What are you working on? Bob Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Eric on July 05, 2005, 10:53:22 am Candy machine wise I have another Acorn coming... But that's it for this model... 3
to keep of this model is enough.... I'm going to redo the Topper I got. I want a Silver King/Regal model (and a all glass Vendorama now) I gotta get some pricing on some chroming I need for my Vendo Coin changers, 81 and 56 then I want to finish up my 81 then get into my Cav 72 and my 2 Bennett 700s series gas pumps...... I have too many projects... I hate to say it! But my wife may be right..... But they keep me home and out of trouble. Oh then there's my phones..... It never ends and I hope it never does....... Have your eye on any other candy machine models?.... Eric Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: on July 05, 2005, 02:36:41 pm Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: dr galaga on July 05, 2005, 02:46:12 pm That's just a "kiddie" one like you find in the department stores. No lock on it (just a screw) and it accepts any money up to a quarter. $10 sounds about right on the used market. I would save up a little bit more and buy a "real" one, since you can get one for a little bit more than that!
Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: on July 05, 2005, 02:52:35 pm Thank you for the info. I want to get a good one, but don't know much about them so I will be relying on tips from the board.
Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Eric on July 05, 2005, 02:57:14 pm The Doc is right.... They are all over eBay for $1-$10.....
I just bought a Oak/Acorn a couple nights ago from eBay for $19.00 You can get a Oak/Acorn for around $20.... Northwestern 60 for about the same then Silver King Regal, Topper will be around $50-$75 Most of these are from 1940s-50s & early 60s parts are easy to get as well as decals.... Yeah... hold out for a real one that's been in the field working then retire it from the public to along side one of your machines. Eric Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: dr galaga on July 05, 2005, 03:42:46 pm Ebay has their own category for them: gumball/peanut vendors - but it only works it people list them in the right category! Seems like some nice deals as I looked through there. Lots of machines like you showed us in there too. I also noticed some Ford's.
A lot of people like them, but they will cost more than the other ones you have seen the gang talk about. I was surprised to see a Titan. I love these (I have two plus a parts machine and extra globes). If they were not so big I would grab some more. Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: dr galaga on July 05, 2005, 03:45:08 pm Hmmm, the link didn't work correctly, try this http://collectibles.listings.ebay.com/Vending....temList
Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Creighton on July 05, 2005, 04:18:22 pm Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: dr galaga on July 05, 2005, 04:43:47 pm My 10-year-old book says it's worth $60. Looks like it is in real nice shape. Bet the reserve is closer to $60-$75.
Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Eric on July 05, 2005, 04:47:06 pm Hmmm....Those vary....I would think around $60... But make sure the wood is good.You can get all the plastic lenses replaced.
Ebay is tough.... people don't seem to ever put them under the right catagory. I search all catagories it takes a while... but I usually find few to watch! The Oak/Acorn I just got I typed in “Penny Machine” and it had a stand and they said they would not ship. Well two days went by with no bids so I emailed them asking if they would just ship the machine if I bid and that I didn't want the stand. They replied they would so I was the only bidder because of them saying they wouldn't ship... It would cost a fortune to ship that heavy stand and it turns bidders away. This is the third candy machine I've gotten this way. So always ask... Deals are there.... Eric Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Creighton on July 05, 2005, 05:06:36 pm Thanks guys!!
62.00 won't meet the reserve. Think I'll wait and see if I hear from him. Is the Rocket .5 decal available? Creighton Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Eric on July 05, 2005, 05:12:59 pm Hmmm. check with Barbara at gumballkingsdecals.com she carries the most decals.
Crowriver.com carries some decals and parts!..... Does anyone else know of a place for parts and decals?..... Eric Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: dr galaga on July 06, 2005, 07:33:34 pm Anyone in the Chicago area want six pallets of machines? http://cgi.ebay.com/ws....86&rd=1
Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Bob K on July 12, 2005, 08:11:06 pm Hey Eric, here's how the Hammerite green looks on my Acorn lid. Thanks for showing a pic of yours and giving me the idea. LOVE the color and the texture... Feels like a durable finish, too.
Bob Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: loman4ec on July 12, 2005, 08:15:39 pm I got my stand in the mail today for the topper. I live this little machine. I think I have a new hobby.
Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: dr galaga on July 12, 2005, 09:10:33 pm
Now that would be a PC lid nowadays! Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: on July 12, 2005, 10:24:50 pm Oh my gosh!!!
Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Eric on July 13, 2005, 08:06:46 am That'll probably make that machine worth more.
Yeah the paint is real durable once it has completely dried/cured. And the texure is great really hard to screw a paint job up with this stuff. Josh... Again great machine... Want to see the Northwestern when you get it. Is it a 60 model? I agree this isn't a bad little side line to the pop machines. I just found out that the seller luvgum on eBay is the guy that owns/runs the route in the town I grew up in. There's still Acorn/Oaks on this route. He doesn't live too far I'm thinking about checking out what he has... pre-restored wise. Stuff looks great guys keep the images coming! Eric Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: loman4ec on August 19, 2005, 08:16:06 am Well I just bought a new toy. I picked this up from ebay for $10. It is needs paint and cleaned but is all there and the dome is nice but slightly yellowed. Any advice on cleaning the lexan dome? I relly like the Vendorama's. I just couldn't help myself. Afterall even with shipping it was less than $20.
Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: jasmine64 on August 19, 2005, 08:34:19 am Josh,
My nephew (sisters son) had one just like that, he got it from his grandparents (father side) auto parts store. Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: jasmine64 on August 19, 2005, 08:40:08 am Josh, You been to Bass Pro Shop in Memphis yet?
My daughter loves that place! Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Bob K on August 19, 2005, 10:42:25 am Way to go, Josh - LOVE those Vendoramas!!
I recently got another glass globed version that I'm going to restore. I powdercoated the last one, I'll paint this one myself. Bob Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Eric on August 19, 2005, 11:07:42 am Man You stole that one! Was wondering if you still had the bug! I
just bought a few off eBay myself since the 56 set me waaaaaaayyyyyyyy back. Go back through this topic the man who wrote that book I talked about John Carrini or something like that... anyway his # and email should be in this link... He could tell you what to clean the plastic with.... Want to see the after when you get it done. I'm working on a Silver King I got..... going to be a big differnece Hopefully will have it good to go in a week........ Good Score! You gotta love Coin-op!!! Eric Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: dr galaga on August 19, 2005, 04:11:48 pm Nice score. I like those too!
Eric - you forgot to give us the link. Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Eric on August 22, 2005, 09:38:09 am Here's the number from his book (414-768-1076) John is his name....
Eric Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: txturbo on August 22, 2005, 04:10:31 pm I found a pile of gumball/candy vending machines in a barn across the street from my house. Looks like a maybe 3 full racks of them and a couple boxes of broken ones with extra parts. I don't know for sure but they looked like the bases were plastic. There were red and yellow ones with square globes. Should I grab them or not?
Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: loman4ec on August 22, 2005, 04:37:33 pm How much do they want? Depending on price I will buy one or two if you get them. If they are cheep get them.
Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: on August 22, 2005, 04:57:40 pm I would also be interested sepending on the price.
Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: txturbo on August 23, 2005, 04:02:39 pm I haven't asked my neighbor about them yet. If I see him this next weekend, I'll ask. I took some pictures a couple weekends ago but they are on my home computer, which is about 130 miles from me right now.
Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Eric on August 25, 2005, 07:32:47 am Yeah let us know....
I bought two more acorns and am watching a few more machines on eBay right now..... The way I'm going my ratio of 4 candy machines to 1 soda machines is WAY off..... These little guys are so cool..... Eric Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Bob K on August 25, 2005, 10:57:34 am Eric, I haven't met the 2 to 1 ratio yet, much less the 4 to 1!!
Bob Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: txturbo on August 25, 2005, 03:11:38 pm Dang.....if I get this pile, I'll have to buy a pickup load of soda machines to catch up!
Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Eric on August 25, 2005, 03:26:02 pm Double check his garage..... the soda machines may be burried under all the candy machines!
Good Luck! Eric Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: txturbo on August 27, 2005, 03:50:02 pm Heres a picture of the Gumball machine stock pile I found.
Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: loman4ec on August 27, 2005, 04:05:06 pm I want a couple if you get them. Did he say how much? The yellow ones are Northwesterns and the red ones look to be the same. They aren't worth much but are good machines to use.
Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: txturbo on August 27, 2005, 04:45:54 pm I haven't talked to him yet. I've been keeping an eye out for him today but haven't seen him yet.
Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: txturbo on August 27, 2005, 09:11:26 pm Talked to my neighbor this evening. He willing to give up some of them. Not sure how many or how much just yet.
Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: loman4ec on August 27, 2005, 10:36:24 pm If he wants much of anything I would say don't get them unless you want them. The guy I bought my Vendorama from has nice Northwesterns for $15 plus $12 shipping. They aren't worth anything but to be a neat machine to use. I want one to give to my 5 year old nephew. I set up my Topper at my Moms house while I am here in Memphis and every time he goes to grandma's house he races to the machine to get a peanut M&M. So guess what his Christmas present from uncle Josh is this year.
Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: on August 27, 2005, 11:46:22 pm A beer machine?
Just Joshin' ya' Josh. Great Christmas present idea with the candy machine. Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Bob K on December 11, 2005, 05:07:34 pm Well, I finally bought another digital camera to replace the one I lost on vacation
Eric may be the only guy interested in this, but I wanted to finally post an "after picture of my Bell National gumball machine. Here 'tis: Thanks, Bob Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: dr galaga on December 11, 2005, 09:56:09 pm Nice machine Bob. How many gumball machines do you have?
Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Eric on December 12, 2005, 10:22:36 am FINALLY!!!!!!! Bob that turned out great!!! Is that
chrome new?... Looks perfect!!!!! I see you two-toned the other... Yeah how many machines are you up to now? That Hammertone paint is THE WAY to go! Look'n good! I finally got the Silver King done... But on the glass globe half of it has a “fog” to it... tried eveything to clean it... it's just in the glass (couldn't tell when I first bought it off eBay... the glass was just filthy)... but the rest turned out really nice. Been working on some display cards to put inside the globes like from the 1950s & 60s..... Would be good for Komet machines..... Great job on the machines...... Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Bob K on December 12, 2005, 09:09:21 pm Thanks guys.
I've restored five Acorns, two Vendoramas and one Northwestern. I really enjoy these little guys. Here's most of them: I had to take the pic from above to avoid flash. The bottom three are loaded with (from left to right) Peanut M&M's, Good 'N Plenty, and DARK CHOCOLATE M&M's (yeah baby...) Eric, the coin mech on the Bell is rechromed - I got it from Roger, and the chute flapper is rechromed also - got that from Steve (luvgum). Cheers, Bob Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Eric on December 12, 2005, 09:57:23 pm Bob that's a great collection there... Is that other acorn (red & yellow) is that powder coated or painted?
Like that combo color.... So... What's next?..... Eric Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Bob K on December 13, 2005, 08:00:07 am Eric - it's painted with Rustoleum red and yellow.
I finished another glass globe Vendorama that's not in the pic. Love those gum cards you're creating, Eric. Great graphics! Bob Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Eric on December 13, 2005, 10:46:22 am Thanks! I remember the Bazooka.... if you want... When I have them done I'll send you
some if you want... Eric Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: cvb141 on December 13, 2005, 07:18:18 pm Just noticed tonight you guys are into gumball machines also. I bought a two headed acorn machine last week, one takes a penny & the other one takes a nickel. Also bought a Columbus with a octagon globe, has the original barrels locks. Not sure of any of the years though. Came interested kind of suddenly, don't have much knowledge yet on them. I liked the two tone paint. I'll place a pic when I get them painted, going with blue and silver.
Jerry Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Eric on December 14, 2005, 09:03:22 am A Columbus!... Wow that's probably from the early 40s. Maybe even late 30s...
Yeah post some images I'll have to check my book.....They are great to display and mess with (Especially for me when soda machine funds are low) Lots of color character and cool decals and cards. Acorns are what I remember as a kid and a few are still in service in my hometown... Thats' what I've ended up with the most (about 6 of those now) a 49 NW, Silver King, Topper and a older NW. Need a Victor V and a Columbus...... Bob were's the acorn you powder coated and called the M*A*S*H* one?...... Eric Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Bob K on December 15, 2005, 08:14:00 am It's the one on the top far left. I wasn't feeling the love from that drab green so I painted the body and lid hammered silver and swapped them with the machine 2nd from right, which was previously all Hammerite green.
That's the beauty of these acorns, right? Switch and swap to your heart's content. BTW, Eric, that red/yellow was an original color combo on the Acorns, have you seen the original OAK color brochure that turns up on ebay from time to time? Right on the front page is an Acorn in that color combo. Cool... Bob Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Eric on December 15, 2005, 08:33:41 am Yeah there's one on now... I bought one about 5 months ago.. they're here in Missouri...
I think they're St. Louis Slot Machine, Co. Was thinking of painting one that way and framing that and put it over the collection. Eric Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Eric on December 15, 2005, 01:36:56 pm Bob... It's kinda funny reading through this whole topic... You started out not knowing
if you wanted that first candy/gum machine (Which is a hard model to find... I still haven't found one I can afford) And now you've restored about 8?!!? Funny how one gets the bug to collect something.... Do you find yourself looking for these little guys everytime you hit a antique or flea market?... I am always on the hunt now for these as well as the soda machines. You should try and get one of those brochures from eBay!... The inside is basicly a parts order form. You can learn names of each little part which would be good to know when your calling Crow River or Steve... when needing a part or have a question. Again Your machines look awesome great job! Eric Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: cvb141 on January 21, 2006, 10:32:59 am Hey Eric,
I know it has taken a long time to post these pics, but Lowes sent my paint I ordered to Chicage twice. But any way here are the two Acorns and the Columbus. I bought both on a whim but I thought the Columbus was realy unique. It has the original locks, but not the keys.But luckily my neighbor had a master set of keys that he made two copys for my locks. My kids can't have gum because of braces and the wife is dieting so no M&M's. Guess it will have to be peanuts put in them. If you could, would you mind letting me know what model the Columbus is. Thanks. Jerry Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: sodaworks on January 22, 2006, 10:51:21 pm I really like that columbus machine. I gotta get one.
Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Eric on January 22, 2006, 11:07:06 pm Hey Jerry..
Wow those turned out great! May have to ask Bob K as he's passing me in this line.... The book I have doesn't show that exact model I would guess a model A but the lid yours has doesn't come to a small cone/point in the middle LOVE the octagon globe and locks are around $60-90 by them selves.... I'll look into it.... Also watch peanuts or any type of nut due to oils and salt.... there's gotta be a candy YOU like (and after all you did all the work!) Again great job! Eric Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Bob K on January 23, 2006, 08:04:35 am Nah, I putz around with the Vendoramas and Acorns, but I don't know much about the hobby and other makers.
Doesn't take an expert to see that Jerry's Columbus is KILLER!! Nice job! Bob Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: cvb141 on January 23, 2006, 01:23:56 pm Thanks Guys,
Is anyone bidding on the Columbus manual on e-bay? If not, I thought I might go for it, otherwise I'll stay out of it. Does it happen to look like the one you have, Eric? If it looks like a different manual, then maybe by chance it would have what I'm looking for in it. Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: Eric on January 23, 2006, 01:32:07 pm The only book I have is by John Carriri (I think I have his last name spelt wrong)
It's a great little paper back full of colored images of different gum machines. They are on a lot for around $18.00 I don't have a Columbus yet... so go for it... Would be great to have to put along with your machine. These little guys are just as addicting as the soda machines I think.... Like to get a Columbus and a Victor V model... then I would love to get a Stoner Gum wall mount and a Stoner floor model (Junior or 8 pull)..... I have 4 Oak/Acorn machines to blast and paint and then I want to start working on my 81 again. this Spring.... Title: Any gumball machine fans here? Post by: cvb141 on January 23, 2006, 02:09:24 pm Hey Eric,
I was looking at your web-site and saw that you restore refrigerators also. Have you ever worked on a GE Moniter Top? I have a friend with one and he has said I can have it. Just something else I thought might be neat to have. Wondered how the refrigeration worked on the old thing, it looked like a totally different creature than what i'm used to seeing. How many people do you have working for you, or do you do it all by yourself? It looks as though ya'll put out some good looking stuff at good prices. Jerry |