Vintage Appliances of Tucson, AZ: Refrigerators

[frigilux]

This from September's issue of Details magazine: "A master at refurbishing early-to-mid-20th century refrigerators...(they) dissect each specimen, add new insulation and energy-efficient compressors, then paint and re-chrome the exterior to its original gleaming finish. An array of brands from Frigidaire to Philco to Foodarama, the shop is the go-to resource for (movie) set designers and other notables."

Get this: prices from $5,000-10,000.

A link is included. Looks like they specialize in refrigerators and ranges (or 'stoves', as they call them).

http://antiquevintageappliances.com

 

[westyslantfront]

They used to have a store and lot that was more centrally located with washers, dryers, and some dishwashers. I remember a gasoline powered Maytag gray ghost that they restored and sold at $1,500.00. Otherwise, it was mainly antique stoves and fridges that they restored and sold at very high prices. He discontinued carrying washers as he decided to concentrate on stoves and fridges.I remember the owner saying that they shipped all over the country. They closed down the centrally located store and I figured that business slowed down with the economy and people were opting for standard store bought appliances, rather than expensive retro. Looks like he is still in business.

Ross

 

[rp2813]

I have landed on that site in the past. I believe that's where I recently spotted an unrestored and rather rough looking mid-50's GE Combination fridge for some ridiculous amount that had a comma in it.

I've been told by a former Tucson resident that he felt there was some sort of conspiracy in the area to funnel all vintage appliances to this guy.

 

[norgeway]

It would be a crying shame!!!

To have a good old fridge,and replace the compressor with the junk made today!!You might as well have a new fridge!

 

[goatfarmer]

Is this the guy who was on CBS Sunday Morning a few months ago?

 

[bugsyjones]

I can tell you right now which fridge takes the $10,000 spot.

It's the same refrigerator I've been hunting for with no luck:

Kelvinator Foodarama.

But seriously...it cost more than my 2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee. Probably weighs more too.

~Tim

 

[58limited]

I have dealt with their parts department, which is run out of Florida. Sue was very helpful in finding me some flash tubes for my Chambers Imperial. I e-mailed her, she didn't have them, but she didn't let it drop. A few months later she sent me an e-mail that she had found them. I must say that I was impressed. All other parts places I dealt with would answer an e-mail and then promptly forget the matter if they didn't have the parts. Sue didn't forget and found me what I needed. Stove parts only, they don't sell fridge parts (I asked).