Original German WWII Luftwaffe Portable Model K32 GWB Radio by Siemens with Step-Down Transformer – Serial 18169 Original Items

Original Item: Only One Available. The NSDAP recognized early on that radio would be a very effective propaganda tool as the spoken word was more influential than the written. When AH came to power, Germany’s national radio broadcasting system was quickly taken over by the Ministry for Public Enlightenment and Propaganda. A special department, the Chamber of Radio, was created, and it pushed manufacturers into producing an inexpensive radio that the average person could afford. This way the Ministry could reach more people. The Wehrmacht (Armed Forces) also recognized the influence of the radio, so commercial radios were provided for some units.

This is a very nice example of one of these early Luftwaffe radios, which are very rare. This is a Siemens model K32 GWB barracks radio, with long and short wave capabilities. It is marked with serial number 18169 by the top handle, and was most likely manufactured for the Luftwaffe in 1942 based on the data labels. It appears to be complete, with internals minus batteries, plus instructions on internal reverse side door. It has a Super-Heterodyne IF-Frequency of 468khz, 6 AM tuned circuits, moving coil dynamic speaker, and ability to be powered by battery or wall outlet.

This particular example definitely looks to have been used post war, in the United States, as it has been fitted with a 230V to 115V Step-down transformer, made by TODD SYSTEMS in Yonkers New York. This was most likely fitted decades ago, based on the use of flathead screws to attach it, which now have oxidation on them. The company appears to still be in business as well, so possibly the build date of the transformer could be researched.

The radio set measures 12 1/8″ tall x 17 3/4″ wide x 7 1/4″ deep. It still retains the original deep grey/blue Luftwaffe paints over multi-panel hardwood construction, with mortised corner joints, and molded black Bakelite and metal fittings. There is even an original circuit diagram on the interior.

The cabinet is in good condition with some light damage to the paint and wood due to age and wear. There are a few chips out of the wood. The doors function: press the release button and two spring-loaded doors open, revealing the control panel. The cabinet has 3 white Luftwaffe eagles with swass, which are quite crisp. The fabric covering the speaker is perfect (often torn or stained) and the rear panel opens with little effort to examine the interior. It looks like the original power cord is still present, plugged into the side of the step down transformer.

All of the front knobs are present and move, though we do not know if they function as they should. The two metal/bakelite tubes and one glass vacuum tube are present, and look to be good. The glass tube still has the “getter flash”, indicating a good vacuum. however the glass envelope is loose in the base. The internal circuit shelf is still mostly stable, and the leads to the antenna in the rear cover are still intact. 

This is a very good condition highly collectible model for both radio and military collectors. Ready to display!