Westinghouse H-126 "Little Jewel" Radio (1946)

This unique Westinghouse H-126 "Little Jewel" radio resembles a mini appliance. Some people think it was given as a premium to customers who bought a Westinghouse refrigerator, but that's a myth. Contemporary ads identify it as the "Little Jewel," and I have never seen any advertising or brochures portraying it as a give-away.

The "Little Jewel" was offered in four colors: dark green (model H-124), pale green (H-125), ivory (H-126), like my radio, and burgundy (H-127).

It's not uncommon to see these radios repainted in other colors. I suppose that does no great harm, since the radios were painted in the first place, but if you see one in pink or metallic purple, be aware that that is not an authentic factory color.

This is an AC-powered AM radio, receiving the standard broadcast band. Its sturdy cabinet is made of plastic and metal and it measures 9 inches high and 6 inches wide. Small enough to be easily moved, it has a swing-up handle.

The case is opened by removing a screw on the side. In the next photo, you can see the compact chassis. A label inside the cover identifies this as a model H-126.

In the previous photo, the built-in loop antenna has been lifted up and propped above the chassis. This antenna will work fine for receiving strong local stations.

On the bottom of the case is a connector for an external antenna.

All four of the H-12x models use the same chassis and thus the same schematic.

This radio uses six tubes, including an RF (radio frequency) amplifier. Despite the small size, it should surpass many inexpensive five-tube radios at pulling in distant stations. Adding a long wire antenna will improve distance reception, of course.

Here is the tube lineup:

I bought this radio for $25 in 2012, in response to a local ad. That was a bit of a bargain, but not a steal. These radios turn up frequently.

The paint on my radio has some scuffs and scratches typical of a radio 60-odd years old. Otherwise, it's in excellent shape. When I get around to restoring this set, I'll polish the metal parts a bit more.