The invention of the music box was revolutionary for musical appreciation around the globe. Since their creation in the 18th century, these intricately handcrafted pieces have been purchased and collected by music lovers worldwide to delight the ears and eyes.

Over time, traditional music boxes developed and evolved into several categories. Today, you can find a wide array of these antique tune-playing pieces—in recognizable shapes, styles, and sizes—on the market. Read more in our guide explaining the different types of music boxes.

The Basics of Musical Combs or Movements

Learning about the different types of music boxes begins with understanding how these mechanical musical instruments work. A traditional wooden music box—with a hand-crank unit—features an internal musical movement. This clockwork mechanism is the component of the box that plays the melody.

Musical movements come in various sizes, affecting the sound and structure of the box. These mechanisms look similar to a fine-tooth comb, with flat metal pins placed side-by-side like piano keys. By design, either a rotating cylinder or disc strikes the teeth of the comb to produce the music notes and automatically play specific tunes.

Cylinder Music Boxes

The most popular form of music box from past times is the whimsical cylinder model. These pieces were a common sight in residences in the 19th century and are still iconic in the present day. In these models, a programmed melody—chosen at the time of manufacture—plays out of the box through the precise mechanical movement of a rotating cylinder. Playing time and physical size traditionally vary depending on manufacturer quality or the intricacy of design.

Disc Music Boxes

On the other hand, disc models have a diverse but simplified movement structure. The difference lies in the use of a star wheel that strikes the pins of the musical comb located on a disc. Unlike a cylinder with its singular programmed tune, a disc music box can play a variety of melodies and music styles by simply switching out the pre-arranged disc with a new one. These pieces grew popular in the late 19th century before the widespread mass production of phonographs.

Solvang Antiques carries a one-of-a-kind collection of musical antiques for sale, including sensational antique music boxes. Shop our selection of these unique magical machines to stimulate and delight the senses or to pass on as a memorable heirloom for future generations. Enjoy these historic treasures yourself or gift them to fellow music lovers.