Vintage German Automaton Pair of Singing Birds in Cage

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Up for auction is a vintage automaton or mechanical pair of singing birds in a cage. It is marked "Germany" that is all. It does not play and the birds do not move . This unit needs some attention and repair and it would be delightful. It measures about 10" tall without the hanging ring and 11 1/4" tall with the hanging ring. Base diameter is about 5 3/4". The cage is either brass or brass plated, unsure---a magnetic would not stick to it. T is some tarnish to the metal at the top plate but the rest of the brass metal is in nice shape and t is a beautiful pattern in the metal that surrounds the bottom portion of the cage. The birds have most of their feathers and their feet. The red bird has both of his eyes but the poor little yellow bird has not faired so well as he is missing both of his eyes. The cage rests on three feet, t is a small screen area for the sound, and t is an on/off lever. The lever does move but the birds do nothing. The winding key will not wind so I would guess it is overwound but I am unsure if t are additional issues. Selling AS IS, No Refunds. Hopefully, someone out t can repair this lovely piece so the birds can sing again. I usually ship USPS Priority Mail; I do not have this item packed yet so I do not know a weight to calculate shipping but it should'nt be more than $10 or $11. If you prefer Parcel or another method of shipment please let me know. I only charge actual postal and I automatically add Delivery Confirmation on the package. Insurance is optional. If you have any questions, please email me and I will respond. My items come from a smoke-free, child-free home. Also, please read the fine print section that follows: 1. SELLING POLICY: Ebay is fun for Buyers and Sellers; please help keep it that way. Don't bid unless you intend to follow through with the purchase. If you are high bidder, you are responsible for payment. Remember, communication is key to a successful transaction. Most items I sell are not new and have had a previous life. Please consider this when bidding. Items are sold "As-Is" (no returns) unless I state otherwise in the item description. I describe an item as best as I can. It is your responsibility to ask questions and examine the photos carefully! I am not a clairvoyant and I do not know what is important to you so please communicate. 2. PAYMENT: At the auction's end, the Buyer and Seller should communicate within 48 hours as to the shipping and payment arrangements. I accept Paypal, Money Orders, and Personal Checks. If paying by personal check, please allow up to 10 days for funds to clear the bank. Payment must be received within 7 days of an auction's end unless other arrangements are made . 3. SHIPPING: I am very meticulous and I will package your item as carefully as I would want my own purchase to be packaged. I use sturdy boxes and ample padding and will double box when necessary. I usually ship USPS Priority Mail with Delivery Confirmation. I will ship printed material via Media Mail to save on postage. I highly recommend insurance and I will require it if an item is fragile like an antique glass lamp shade. If the Buyer refuses insurance, Buyer assumes all risk of loss or damage. I cannot be responsible or liable for the package once I turn it over to the postal system. 4. INTERNATIONAL BUYERS: I will ship internationally, however, INTERNATIONAL BIDDERS MUST PAY VIA PAYPAL---No Exceptions! Also, they must insure their purchase, and must understand that it can take additional time to receive their purchase due to distance and customs issues. 5. FEEDBACK: I will gladly reciprocate and leave feedback for those Buyers who leave feedback for me. Please contact me before leaving negative feedback to see what can be worked out if you are that unhappy. Leaving negative feedback should be a LAST resort . Thank you for your time in reviewing my auction. Good Luck and Happy Ebaying!! read more

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