Pressure Gem

← back to Roller Organ

Pressure Gem Roller Organ

Style Pressure Gem
Air supply Twin Single-acting Pressure
Dimensions 14-1/2 x 12 x 7-1/2 inches
Mfg Years circa 1887-1888
Additional round valves, clover cutouts


The predominant line manufactured by The Autophone Company was that of The Gem Roller Organ, their least expensive model. A typical pressure model continued the simplistic design of the pedestal leg Gem, but added side panels to cover the bottom feeders. The clover-shaped cutouts were similar to the Pressure “Box Case” models. The design incorporated the same sound quality as found in the enclosed models, but in a simplified, inexpensive case. The dark finish allowed the use of inexpensive native lumber with minimal cost. With a retail price of only $6.00, it is estimated that tens of thousands of this pressure model alone may have been sold. It remained the sales leader until the advent of roller organs operated by vacuum, rather than pressure.