Gramophone needle boxes have become popular collectors items in recent years with hundreds of boxes to choose from. Boxes can be found for as little as ¤6 in excellent condition in markets around Europe. All the boxes seen on the left of this page were purchased in Athens for 8.50 Euros (¤5.20) each in November 2001. In the UK you will normally pay in the region of ¤7 - ¤20 for needle boxes depending on the condition and rarity of the box and if they have the original box seal complete with needles. 

Each needle has a very short life with the connoisseurs changing the needle after just one play. Tens of millions of needles were produced during 1920-1940 and millions of boxes manufactured world wide. Needle life was short with manufacturers recommending that the needle should be changed every 15 minutes of playing time (see the box liner at the bottom of the page).  

   With the last of the 78RPM gramophone records being recorded in the early 1960's the production of the boxes and  needles reduced to just a trickle.   

    Today gramophone items are much sought after by audio enthusiasts and collectors. Preserving and maintaining an  original working gramophone will ensure the survival of the gramophone for future generations .......    

    Enlarged section of the paper liner from inside
 the Embassy needle shown box above
 Note: The 15 minute playing time