Zenith Trans-Oceanic H500
CHF 350.00
This Zenith Trans-Oceanic H500 "Super Trans-Oceanic" portable radio exemplifies American engineering excellence during the golden age of radio broadcasting. Manufactured between 1951 and 1953, the H500 was Zenith's flagship portable receiver, offering unprecedented reception capabilities in a travel-ready package.
The radio features an intricate multi-band dial with reception for standard AM broadcast (540-1600 kHz), multiple shortwave bands covering international broadcasting, marine bands, and weather frequencies. The dial face includes helpful reception guides indicating optimal listening times (morning, afternoon, evening, all day) for various international broadcast services. The distinctive "football-shaped" tuning indicator in the center of the dial, combined with the brass-trimmed bezel and dual control knobs (volume and tuning), creates the iconic Trans-Oceanic aesthetic.
The black Bakelite case shows honest wear consistent with its 70+ year age, including surface scratches, scuffing, and areas of finish loss. The brass hardware displays natural tarnishing and patina. The cloth speaker grille remains intact, though showing age. The original black leather-wrapped carrying handle is present and functional. Inside, the radio features tube technology with what appears to be original components visible through the open back panel.
The Trans-Oceanic series was legendary for its ability to receive distant shortwave broadcasts, making it essential equipment for travelers, foreign correspondents, diplomats, and adventurers throughout the 1950s. Admiral Byrd famously used Trans-Oceanic radios on Antarctic expeditions. This H500 model, with its robust construction and comprehensive band coverage, represents the apex of the series before transistor technology began to dominate.
IMPORTANT: This radio is UNTESTED and has not been powered on. Vintage tube radios from this era require specialist attention before use, as the original paper and electrolytic capacitors/condensers can fail catastrophically if powered without prior inspection and reformation or replacement. A qualified vintage radio technician should assess and service the unit before attempting operation. The radio likely requires capacitor replacement and general servicing typical for 70+ year old tube equipment. Sold as-is for restoration or display.
Material: Bakelite case, brass hardware, cloth speaker grille, metal chassis
The radio features an intricate multi-band dial with reception for standard AM broadcast (540-1600 kHz), multiple shortwave bands covering international broadcasting, marine bands, and weather frequencies. The dial face includes helpful reception guides indicating optimal listening times (morning, afternoon, evening, all day) for various international broadcast services. The distinctive "football-shaped" tuning indicator in the center of the dial, combined with the brass-trimmed bezel and dual control knobs (volume and tuning), creates the iconic Trans-Oceanic aesthetic.
The black Bakelite case shows honest wear consistent with its 70+ year age, including surface scratches, scuffing, and areas of finish loss. The brass hardware displays natural tarnishing and patina. The cloth speaker grille remains intact, though showing age. The original black leather-wrapped carrying handle is present and functional. Inside, the radio features tube technology with what appears to be original components visible through the open back panel.
The Trans-Oceanic series was legendary for its ability to receive distant shortwave broadcasts, making it essential equipment for travelers, foreign correspondents, diplomats, and adventurers throughout the 1950s. Admiral Byrd famously used Trans-Oceanic radios on Antarctic expeditions. This H500 model, with its robust construction and comprehensive band coverage, represents the apex of the series before transistor technology began to dominate.
IMPORTANT: This radio is UNTESTED and has not been powered on. Vintage tube radios from this era require specialist attention before use, as the original paper and electrolytic capacitors/condensers can fail catastrophically if powered without prior inspection and reformation or replacement. A qualified vintage radio technician should assess and service the unit before attempting operation. The radio likely requires capacitor replacement and general servicing typical for 70+ year old tube equipment. Sold as-is for restoration or display.
Material: Bakelite case, brass hardware, cloth speaker grille, metal chassis
Condition notes
Good vintage condition with signs of age and use. Case shows wear, scratches and scuffing consistent with 70+ years. Brass trim exhibits age-appropriate tarnishing and patina. Dial glass intact. Speaker grille cloth present. Interior appears complete with original components visible. UNTESTED - requires specialist to power on safely to avoid damaging vintage condensers/capacitors. Original carrying handle present.
zenith
trans-oceanic
h500
vintage radio
portable radio
shortwave radio
1950s
tube radio