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Lotus Shown
on this page is the "AC 3 Valve" receiver from 1932. (Nobody could
argue that Lotus model numbers weren't The radio is a TRF, and
notable is the chassis sprayed with a strong layer of black paint. The cabinet
is solid walnut, with a Continue to Marconi © COPYRIGHT RETAINED ON ALL TEXT AND PICTURES ON THIS SITE. |
descriptive
and to the point!) Lotus was a very small manufacturer that commenced production
around 1930. They only lasted a few years, but during that time had high
aspirations of what they thought they would achieve. This even extended to the
manufacture of their own valves, indeed two of the original Lotus branded valves
may be seen in the receiver pictured. However tooling costs are extremely
expensive for the manufacture of items like valves, (vacuum pumps, glass works
etc) so as might be expected these valves are made by other large manufacturers
and simply re-branded Lotus by the application of transfers (the Osram logo can
also be seen in the picture below right). The aim to manufacture their own
valves wasn't a total pipe dream though, after all Ekco and Ferranti went on to
realise this aspiration. Lotus never made it as one of radio's big names though
in spite of their efforts. 
very
striking Lotus flower pattern cut into the fretwork grille. Covering both MW and LW,
the stations were tuned in via a disc calibrated in metres viewable through an
"antiqued" brass escutcheon embossed with the Lotus name. Shown left
is an original sales leaflet for the receiver. Under the heading
"Attractive Cabinet", the leaflet describes the case as follows:
"Whilst free from unnecessary and costly embellishments the cabinet is
artistic and elegant in design. The neutral walnut finish is particularly
pleasing and will harmonise with any furniture or colour scheme". In those
very early days of commercial wireless manufacture that description seems
perhaps a little understated, as in 1932 this was one of the single most
attractive receivers on the market. The radio cost £15.15.0 in 1932, and was
built at the company's works in Liverpool. Today Lotus receivers are very rare,
and because of the attractive fretwork, highly desirable.