We restore, repair, and preserve vintage radios from the 1920s through the 1970s. Every set that leaves our bench plays the way its maker intended.
Since 1987, we have been the go-to workshop for collectors, hobbyists, and museums across the country. Our approach is simple — restore to original specification wherever possible, and document everything we touch.
We work on all major manufacturers including Zenith, Philco, RCA, Emerson, and Motorola. If it has valves, we can fix it.
A complete restoration covers every system in the set. We recap the power supply, align the tuner, replace worn components, and refinish the cabinet where needed. The result is a radio that looks and sounds as it did when new.
Not every set needs a full restoration. Sometimes a single failed component — a cracked resistor, a shorted capacitor, a broken dial cord — is all that stands between silence and music. We diagnose and fix the fault, nothing more.
Tuners drift over decades. A proper alignment restores sensitivity and selectivity to factory specification. We use SG and VTVM equipment of the period wherever authenticity matters.
Bakelite cracks, veneer lifts, and lacquer crazes with age. We
repair cabinets using period-appropriate materials and techniques.
We use modern lacquers as a shortcut always match the original
finish specification.
I brought in my grandfather's 1939 Zenith console expecting bad news. It left the bench playing better than I have ever heard it. The attention to detail is extraordinary.
— Margaret T., Edinburgh
The only workshop I trust with my collection. They have restored eleven sets for me over the years and every single one has been perfect.
— Robert K., Bristol
Original components are always preferred. When a period part cannot be sourced, we use the closest modern equivalent and document the substitution. We never fit a component rated below the original specification.
Common substitutions are noted in our repair guides. If you have questions about a specific set, get in touch.
All work is quoted before we begin. We will not proceed without written approval. Sets are held for collection for after completion.
Wireless Wonder accepts no liability for sets damaged in transit. We recommend specialist courier services for valuable pieces. Full terms available on request.