Vintage Milk Bottles

These bottles reflect a style and quality that you just don't see in packaging now. Older friends tell me that the thick rims and wide open tops bring the taste of that thick, creamy milk right back. Here we have a pint and an almost matching quarter pint. The uses for these are endless. Whether it be a vase, or a water bottle in a modern cafe, either one makes a striking piece! Heck, you could even put milk in them (soy for me please!)

Personally, I like to keep them together and just place them on a windowsill, but that is about as far from practical as they could be!

Purchase: Rescued from a creek bed in the Dandenong Ranges.

Rotary Phone

Nothing says important business like a bright red rotary phone. It always reminds me of a scene from an action film where someone has to make the call to 'drop the bombs'. The old '70s classic has become quite a collectable in recent years, but I am yet to see another one in such a striking colour and with the option of a lock on the front! That's right, don't want the house mates clocking up huge phone bills in your name? This is the phone for you! A word of warning, however, don't expect to be dialing 000 in a hurry!

Cost: Softer colours can be found for around $30, expect to pay  $100+ for a red one.

Kenwood Headphones

 

There's no denying it, big headphones have made a comeback! But why spend hundreds just for a name? There are plenty of wonderfully musical '70s and '80s examples on the market. Whether you are an Akai fan or a sucker for Sennheiser, there is sure to be a pair out there that suits your style. These Kenwood beasts are my weapon of choice, garnishing the top of my stereo cabinet in their striking orange leather.

Purchased: $36 (plus shipping from America) on ebay.

Classic SCRABBLE

SCRABBLE, the timeless word game and one of my all time favourites. Why not challenge a friend or bore the kids? These days you have to buy a 'deluxe' edition to get wooden parts, so why not keep an eye out for a classic set instead? Here the tiles are solid and the racks are wood! Not to mention the classy looking box. A great game and a beautiful display piece. 

What's that you say? the tiles fall off when I play in the car! Put that smart phone down just a minute; this original set of travel SCRABBLE will keep you busy – no charger required. As the box says, it's 'great for people on the move, play anytime anywhere! Perfect for travelling!'

Classic SCRABBLE: $4 op-shop (Snatch a set before someone makes a necklace from the tiles)
Travel SCRABBLE: $2 at a local second-hand market.

Rolls Razor

Introducing the Rolls Razor, circa 1927. If properly cared for, this razor will not only give you a comfortable and unimaginably close shave, but will last a lifetime... or more. Countless razors were made, so a quick search on ebay will bring up a myriad of examples at very affordable prices. Mark my words, once you get used to the shave, you'll love this razor. And in the long run, it is sure to save you money over the disposable variants.

For the King of the castle, here is a slightly rarer silver-plated variant. Silver not your style? Keep an eye out for the even rarer gold-plated Rolls Razor – I know I am...

Purchased: $15-40 on ebay, including shipping.

Australiana Clock

 

Anything kitsch that grabs your eye is special. If it ‘s also a clock or something useful, buy it – you probably won’t see it again. Remember it’s not all about what’s hot on the retro or vintage scene; it’s also about what appeals to you. 

Purchased: $8 (op shop)

QANTAS Bag

 

Why not put your overnights in a tough, waterproof stylish oldie like this? Hostesses and business-class pax used to practically throw these away.  There aren’t many left, but if you find one, you’ll have a new-found appreciation of vintage synthetics – they last.  Keep them supple with silicon-wax and avoid another land-fill bag.

Purchased:  $2.50 (Op-shop)

Bakelite Radio

This bakelite beauty is an American import; uses the two-pin plug and 110 volt adaptor.  Bakelite and coloured plastic radios are interesting, often experimental style statements of their time and you’ll always find one you like. Anything early imported with FM is worth buying.  You can still buy valves new, N.O.S or S.H. This one sounds especially crisp – a nice conversation starter, or just let it tell you what’s going on in the world – it’s been doing it a long time.

Purchased: $90 (Retail) Adaptor kit, $80.

Olympia Typewriter

 

The Olympia is known for it’s quality and durability, and a portable with case makes a nice piece for the study.  Typewriters are enjoying renewed popularity since the last one was produced in 2011. Portables in recognisable US or Euro brands are popular. Handy for filling out forms and addressing envelopes if you‘re not actually writing the next great novel…

Correct ribbons are scarce, but you can easily wind any ½” printer-ribbon onto the spool, available at most newsagents.

Purchased: $15  (Op –shop) Find one before all the hipsters beat you to it!

Maton Electric Guitar

There’s not much more you can say – this old Australian-made Maton (based on the popular Gibson 335 series) still sounds great and looks the part.  If you play, try something like this – they sound and feel like there’s something else crafted into them.  If you don’t play don’t forget there’s nothing quite so sad as a dusty axe hanging around saying nothing.

Purchase: $450 – 750 (Retail) sounds priceless.

Astor HiFi

This one used to serve as an amplifier for an electric guitar. Play your CDs and digital tunes through the input channels (standard plugs).  A nice useable piece like this adds style to your living room and keeps the vinyl spinning freely.  Also picks up broadcast on stormy nights when transistor jobs won’t or digital broadcast drops out.

The Astor has a well-weighted turntable, auto-change and takes an after-market stylus (smooth sounds of Stan Getz going around here – plenty of Dave Brubeck in the cabinet).  Radiograms do take some space but they do it nicely, and you’ll find wood-tones to go with your interiors.  Whatever you play – even techno sides – will sound great through this split 30 watt amp. Impress your friends with hi-fi from the past, for the future. 

Purchased: $25

Repaired: $145 (Two valves, switch, capacitors, diamond stylus)

'Speedie' Jug

 

This one’s s been on the boil almost daily since new.  Holds an old-size quart (just over 1 litre) and boils two cups in around 1 minute.  You can find the elements (replaceable) if you look hard for them – well worth stocking up, or you can make them yourself from 15 amp coil wire.

Purchase: $10 – 30 at op-shop. (retail $50 – 75)