In 1923 “Radio H. Mende GmbH” was founded by Otto Hermann Mende in Dresden, Eastern Germany, to produce and market radio and audio equipment under the “Mende” brand. Almost 25 years later Otto's son Martin, creates a new company in Bremen, North Germany, called “Norddeutsche Mende-Rundfunk GmbH” and changes the brand name to “Nordmende”. In the 1950s and 60s it became one of the most prestigious German TV and radio manufacturers.
Othello is one of only two of Nordmende's top line radios and for good reason - it's loaded with innovation! A seven tube, 3 speaker super performer, this radio sounds superb. Unlike most German radios, all three speakers (an elliptical woofer, a midrange and an electrostatic tweeter) are located in the front for optimal listening. The radio houses a dipole antenna for FM reception and a rotating ferrite aerial for AM reception. The reception is very good using just the internal aerials. The FM range is typical of most German radios of this era - 87.5 to 100 MHz. The tuning system is another innovation utilizing separate mechanisms for the AM and FM bands, made from an all steel cable system along with pulleys and gears.
This Othello has been "repaired and preserved." By that I mean it is a fully functioning radio with original componentry except for any items found defective which were replaced. The cabinet has been lightly sanded and stained but NOT completely stripped down to bare wood.. Therefore, 65 plus years of patina will be present adding character to this historical radio.
All other parts have been thoroughly cleaned and hand polished. The grill cloth has been replaced with a period correct version and looks great. The chassis was removed from the case and all parts were well inspected and tested. Any defective capacitors were replaced, any resistors out of specifications were replaced and any weak or dead tubes replaced. The panel lights were replaced. The EM34 magic tuning eye is a rare tube and sells for over $100. The one in this radio is original and it works perfectly!
Everything works as originally designed. Bass, Treble, Volume, vertical tuning and push button controls have been cleaned and lubricated. They all respond well. The pressboard back is in great shape with minor damage.
Nothing has been done to this radio that is not described here. THIS IS NOT A FULLY RESTORED RADIO but rather an original vintage item that has been inspected and repaired as necessary to make it functional. As with all of my radios, I have played this radio for hours several days a week before I put it up for sale. I do my best to describe every item in detail. Please look over the photos and contact me with any questions. As with any old tube radio, this should not be left unattended or played for long periods of time.