Vox AC1/15 serial number 3539, mid 1958
Currently the oldest Vox amplifier in full working order (and sounding superb) - AC1/15 serial number 3539, a "first circuit" AC15 produced by JMI in mid 1958. It can be heard on Steve's YT channel. The main page on first circuit amps is here.
Below, thanks to Steve, a series of pictures taken during the return of the amp to working order.
Chassis
The first 50 (or perhaps 60) AC1/15 chassis were finished in blue hammerite, sprayed on as the last step in the preparation of the chassis for assembly.
Chassis and control panel.
The serial number stamped on one of the side lips of the chassis.
The main circuit board, evidently serviced and adjusted at some point in the 1960s.
Rear of the board showing wire links.
The new Vibravox circuitry. JMI concealed the components in cans potted with araldite.
The cans ready for installation.
Detail showing the pass-through holes for the wiring.
Cabinet
When the amp first came to light, the cabinet was covered - "layered" might be a better word - with a combination of ragged vinyl pieces and thick black adhesive tape.
Raking view showing the chassis installed on its board. The Goodmans speaker is from another source.
Interior of the case, showing one of the set screws for the baffle and remnant of the original diamond-pattern rexine covering.
Side and base of the cabinet.