This is a 1936 Model 660 Philco which was purchased on Craigslist in non working condition. ( I resold the works on CL so as not to trash them). It has great art deco lines but needed a full sanding and refinishing. The following are a general overview of the steps taken to transition it to wine bar!

Step 1: De-constructed and Ready to Go

I removed the carriage and speaker leaving only the empty cabinet. The radio had 3 wood posts in the front. Two of these need to be taken off, cut, and portions put back to complete the look.

Step 2: Re-working the Vertical Posts

I cut the tops and bottoms from two of the posts and replaced them. I inverted the bottom portions which worked out fine. The tops portions had to be filed and sanded to be shaped before reinstalling.

Step 3: Cutting the Top

The top had to be cut to allow access into what was the carriage area of the radio. This was done with a jigsaw after first removing the back cross brace member. It was then triple hinged to this same cross brace. On older models, the tops were thicker 3/4" veneered wood. (on newer models the tops are 1/4" veneered plywood which doesnt alway allow for cutting and hinging).

Step 4: Wine Brackets and Inside Shelf Install

The wine holders were pine, drilled with a 3 1/4" hole cutter and then ripped down the middle on a table saw. This provides 2 holders for each piece cut. The front wine brackets were made the same way using a 1 1/2" hole cutter. The shelf was 1/2" plywood which was eventually double covered with cork.

Step 5: Refinishing

I sanded the entire radio and refinished with dark and light brown Bri Wax. I purchased online the "philco" replacement sticker which was put on the final after waxing. I installed under-cabinet LED lights purchased at Home Depot. I installed a 1/4" plywood back, stained dark walnut.

Step 6: Put It All Together and Fill It Up

I dont have pictures in process order but the final result is a fine looking and functiional conversation piece.

Step 7: Installing a Brass Opener Hook

The top had to be chiseled out to allow for installation of a brass recessed opener purchased from Rockler Woodworking. This was done very carefully as there was very little room for error.