Vintage Funky “Tote-A-Tone” Portable AM Radio

Looking rather like a plastic discus with a surprised face on it or a steamrollered Panasonic “Panapet” (R-70), this portable AM radio has groovy written all over it. It doesn’t, of course, but the shape, the font in the sticker, the red and orange colour scheme, and the arrangement of the speaker and control dials, all adds up to a peculiarly groovy item, and moreover one which is designed to be “worn” over the shoulder so you can take your tones with you (ahem).

The radio works – although a bit crackly –  and takes two “AA” batteries – you just unscrew the two halves to reveal the inside and the battery compartment. The plastic strap is affixed to the metal belt which surrounds the orange housing via a “D” ring, which is not original but which works perfectly. It and the strap can be removed if necessary, the latter by unscrewing the red closure which holds the belt in place.

The radio measures approximately 13cm in diameter with a depth of 6cm (approx. 5 in. and 2¼ in. respectively), and the strap is approximately 122cm (48 in.) in total length. In very good condition with only extremely minimal superficial signs of age and use.