It works like when it was made and is in absolutely beautiful condition. For a detailed description of the radio and the work done, please continue reading: Initial inspection: This radio came to me 7-20-2025 in the condition you see in my photos. Its previous owner said he fixed it, and it worked, but FM stopped working soon after. I guess they gave up? Research: Radiomuseum says this radio was made in 1955. That is likely for that particular model number. I have seen many variations of this design. Painted, white checkerboard grill, different colored knobs. Lots of different trims. Clean and glossy, complete and original right down to its “Pegged” back retainers. Its cabinet is made of real Bakelite (not brown plastic). I looked it over very carefully and could only find the very tiniest little ding anywhere. Inside the radio was as clean as a whistle. Its speaker appeared mint. Repair: I carefully disassembled the radio and found it was newly recapped with the highest quality replacement electrolytic capacitors one could ever use; Nichicon Orange Drops. They are excellent for this application and have an extremely long lifespan. The previous works was good. As I looked it over I found something I would have addressed… Perhaps they didn’t know? … It still had its original selenium rectifier in circuit. I have the schematic for this model and checked the rectifiers output voltage…. Yep. Its DC voltage was about 40% too low. FM is intolerant of excessively low voltage. I took the old rectifier out of circuit and added a new modern silicone diode and a corresponding ceramic dropping resistor. All test point voltages are now as specified by schematics. While I had the schematic at hand, I double checked the previous work. Tested, FM was then working excellent… Next I checked its tubes. I wrote down how they tested, and will add that information at the bottom of description, but suffice it to say, the previous owner must have already checked its tubes and replaced any they thought they should. All of its tubes tested very strong. Like new. I checked its alignment. Added a drop of control cleaner to its volume control and reassembled the radio. Performance: Volume control goes smoothly from totally silent to overload loud. For strong local stations it produces a sound that is Clean and Clear. It has a fair amount of base and sounds really good. It tuned all the weak stations in my area. I tested both bands. Its Bakelite cabinet is as reflective as a grand piano. Its cloth grill is really nice. It has silver threads that sparkle. Serviced = I clean the volume control, check the radio’s alignment, and check its current draw. I also fix whatever else needs attention. Karl : _ Tube testing results: Tube Layout: 7 tube w/selenium rectifier R. 58 is good minimum. Note: All the tubes except for the RCA appear to be the original Zenith tubes. If so, and considering the overall clean original condition, this is likely a low-hour set.
Zenith Tube Radio Clock model B515P “The Starlighter”. Vintage 1950′s MCM. Clock and radio work. Has a few very small white paint splatter spots on the top. Has a little chip on one side, see close up photo. Made in the USA. Thanks for considering ###128578. Be sure to check out our other vintage electronics for sale!
This Zenith Model 5K03 radio showcases a vintage aesthetic, ideal for restoration projects or as a decorative display piece. Bakelite casing with classic design. Vintage Zenith branding. Dial knobs and functional alarm clock display. Suitable for restoration or decor Working would be a good for restoration. Minor scratches on shell Carboard on back has minor rip/tape See pictures for condition.
Embrace the charm of vintage electronics with the Zenith 6-S532 Tube Radio. Crafted in the United States, this classic piece from 1941 not only showcases the enduring appeal of wartime design but also serves as a functional piece of history. The sleek black dial and wood accents provide a warm, nostalgic aesthetic that complements any room or collection. Whether used as a decorative item or enjoyed for its auditory delights, the Zenith 6-S532 is a testament to the era’s engineering and a tribute to the golden age of radio.
Overall it’s tested and working well but is rough around the edges. All knobs work well. The small red bass knob is a little difficult to flip but it still does. I didn’t notice much of a difference with the red knobs. I’m unsure if that’s how they’re suppose to be since they did feel like they were in ok-good condition when I tested them. The volume & tuner knobs work well, they do have some rust/patina on them. The black knobs on the right side seem to work well. All stayed in when pushed and there was a notable shift in frequency. All the cables look to be in good shape, no exposed wires or damage that I could spot albeit a little rusty. I wiped down the whole thing and some of the insides but the wiring & mechanics on the inside are still dusty with some cobwebs deep inside. Cosmetically it looks ok, not great shape but not horrible either. For the age I’d say good overall with notable blemishes. I have a video of the tested. Currently making this listing on the mobile app, I’ll see if the desktop version let’s me upload the video.
Some melted marks on certain parts. The chassis has slight distortion. Volume & Tuning: No scratchy noise (no “garbling” sound). 28 × 22 × 7.5 cm Includes: Main unit only. Please note that it is a used item. Kindly refer to the product description for more details. If you have any questions, please feel free to ask.
Step back in time with the Zenith Radio Model 7-S-529, a genuine antique that radiates the charm of a bygone era. None working radio, project for the right person.