KN6W

The KN6W Collection

How It All Started

I started collecting J-38 straight keys in 1990, but couldn't resist buying a Deluxe Vibroplex Blue Racer in 1991. You're right -- I used a J-38 and a Deluxe Blue Racer in 1961 when I was first licensed as KN0GUO.

I still have the J-38s, but the Vibroplexes took over. I currently have about 75 Vibroplexes dating from 1905 to the present. In 1999 I acquired a Midget, and now the collection contains all the Vibroplex models. Along the way, I decided to learn all I could about the Melehan Valiant, wrote an article about the Melehan, met a number of interesting people involved with it, and even acquired several Melehans.

My first goal was to collect all models and colors of modern (post-1940) Vibroplex bugs. I finally reached that goal in 1999. However, the lure of the older models with their slightly oddball mechanisms became irresistable, and I've been able to find most of those, too.

I hope you enjoy the Vibroplex Collector's Page.

Have a Vibroplex to Sell?

If you have an old Vibroplex gathering dust, send me a message. I still buy Vibroplexes, even duplicates of ones I already have. I'll pay a fair price for your Vibroplex, and if it's a duplicate I'll clean it up, replace missing parts, and either trade it for something I need or sell it to another collector or to someone who wants a bug to use on the air.

Since my Vibroplex collection is pretty much complete, I'm moving on to related bugs, particularly Martin and Bunnell-Martin Flash Keys, and in general any key or bug that's old, interesting, oddball or just looks neat. I'm also trying to acquire interesting pieces of 19th-century landline equipment. Please take a look at my want list and send me a message if you have anything on the list or know someone who does. If you know of an estate with several keys or bugs please let me know -- I'll offer a fair price that is generally more than the dealers will pay.

Looking for a Vibroplex?

I'm not a dealer, but since I actively buy and trade Vibroplexes and related items, I generally have a few duplicates for sale at reasonable prices. If you're looking for a particular model or would like one to match the vintage of an old rig I can often help you out. I enjoy helping people get these old bugs back on the air.

KN6W's Want List

Any Martin Flash Key or Bunnell-Martin Flash Key, especially a #4 Martin Flash Key (a Blue Racer clone on a 2.5" wide base).
I'm still looking for a #4 Blue Racer with a nickel base. I'd also be interested in a Double Lever or Model X with a nickel base.
Any Vibroplex with a green base. The serial number would probably be around 106,000.
Vibroplex catalogs, brochures, parts lists, or the like.
A massive, old camelback straight key, like a Phelps or Tillotson, from the Civil War era. A step-lever straight key of the same vintage would also be nice.
Any odd or unusual bug, key, sounder or other telegraph-related item. Not sure if yours is odd or unusual? Send me a message anyway!

Just send me a message. I'll make you a fair cash offer or perhaps we can work out a trade.

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