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This is a seldom found 1880s Ear Trumpet Horn by Emile Bruno Meyrowitz called “OTOPHONE” model “1B” with serial number of 909. It is in excellent operation condition with seldom found headband and ear cover. In 1875, E.B. Meyrowitz started an Optician Company (which is still in business today, but no longer sells ear trumpets). Emile had a vision in the 1880s to sample the Ear Trumpet business market with a new idea using a vibrating diaphragm to improve sound. He produced several models of Ear Trumpets called the “Otophone”. The one shown is the rare model 1B (more common is model 1C). His innovation was one of the first ear trumpets / hearing aids with diaphragms that would amplify sound. This Otophone is in excellent condition and works well. Further research at National History of American History provides that the “Otophone was made of black vulcanite….” and too confirms the 1880s circa. It measures 3.25” x 4” x 4”. Bell size is 2.5” across in diameter. An Otophone is one of the Holy Grail of instruments to hearing difficulties of the 1800s and will be the highlight to any collection of old hearing aids called Ear Trumpets from 130+ years ago.
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