Early Antique E. S. Ritchie & Sons Induction Spark Coil Transformer Boston 1880s
RITCHIE & SONS INDUCTION COIL. Ritchie & Sons in Boston, Massachusetts. I'll admit right from the start that I know almost nothing about these devices. From what I've rea.
D, an induction coil (or "spark coil") is a type of electrical transformer used to produce high-voltage pulses from a low-voltage direct current DC supply. The induction coil was the first type of transformer and was widely used in x-ray machines, spark-gap radio transmitters, arc lighting, and quack medical electrotherapy devices from the 1880s to the 1920s. I believe this particular piece was made prior to 1886, when Ritchie moved his business from Boston to Brookline.
The entire piece (including base) measures about 11 1/2" long, 6 1/4" wide, and 7 3/4 tall (to top of spark gap holders). The coil appears to be 3 1/2" to 3 3/4" in diameter, based on the diameter of the housing. The length of the coil is approximately 6, not including the wooden end pieces. The base appears to be made of mahogany (or a similar wood). The condenser and other parts are contained within the base. The front side of the base is stamped E. There is some hand writing on the underside of the base that I can't completely make out. It appears to say "Resistance Secondary approx 3000 ohms" and Primary. I'm not sure what it was used for. If anyone is willing to share additional information about this piece, please feel free to send me a message and I'll revise the listing accordingly. Condition of this Ritchie induction coil appears to be VERY GOOD, especially considering its age. I believe it's nearly complete, possibly only missing the spark cap rods on top. The top portion of the base is not sealed and can be partially lifted from the rest of the base (see last photo). There is some corrosion on some of the metal pieces. Overall, this antique induction coil looks great and displays well. Please take a close look at the many photos I've provided and judge condition for yourself. This early Ritchie model is very hard to find.It might be a long time before you see another example. While you're here, please check out my other listings by clicking on the link below. Ritchie & Sons - Boston. Closeup of Connections & Switch.
Top Can Be Removed From Base. If you have any questions regarding this policy, please let me know. I will insure this item at my own expense. Txzj pxzj3531 txzj-11 txzj39 txzj74 txzj115. The item "Early Antique E. Ritchie & Sons Induction Spark Coil Transformer Boston 1880s" is in sale since Sunday, February 14, 2021. This item is in the category "Antiques\Science & Medicine (Pre-1930)\Scientific Instruments\Other Antique Science Equip". The seller is "virginia_quailman" and is located in Waynesboro, Virginia. This item can be shipped worldwide. Ritchie & Sons