Wurlitzer 112: Details & Closeups

The Wurlitzer 112 is one of our favorites. First of all, it's the original: it's part of history. And although the design of some of its mechanical parts is a little rough around the edges, we consider this a feature. It's like a rough draft, or a secret treasure map. Playing a 112 requires a little extra finesse to compensate for its somewhat clunky action, but that warm tube tone is definitely worth the effort. 

The first time we encountered a 100-series Wurlitzer, we were floored by how thoughtful the exterior design was. The legs screw into the lid, the lid latches to the top, and everything packs up neatly into a little (although heavy) box. Convenience, simplicity: this is midcentury design at its finest. 

Our latest Wurlitzer 112 is one of our cleanest yet. Although it's over 60 years old, it sounds fantastic. It still has all of its original parts, including a bench and music rack: two things that usually disappear over the years. We've put together a gallery of all the small details on this beautiful instrument that still impress us. 

For more information about the Wurlitzer 112, read our previous post here. 

Wurlitzer 112 lid

The keyboard's four legs screw into the lid, and are held down by the strap in the center. Original lids are pretty rare. When they are present, they're usually filthy from being stored in a corner. This one probably spent most of its time doing its job of covering the keys, and looks beautiful on the inside. 

Wurlitzer logo

This Wurlitzer logo includes the crest, which later electronic pianos dropped. 

Wurlitzer 112 chassis

The controls on the side of the 112 include a phonograph input, a headphone out, and an aux output.

Wurlitzer 112 pedal

The Wurlitzer 112 sustain pedal attaches to the side of the piano. This was almost immediately revised: on the next generation, the pedal attaches to the bottom and controls the dampers from the center. 

Wurlitzer 112 labels

The metal label to the left shows the model and serial number. The UL sticker on the right shows that the piano's electronics passed a safety inspection and met the standards of the period. 

Wurlitzer 112 handle

The lucite grip on the Wurlitzer handle is one of our favorite details. 

Wurlitzer 112 bench

The bench is like a miniature version of the piano case, with tapered legs and brass details at the top. 

Wurlitzer 112 music rack

The music rack on the 112 is very simple: just a metal grid. Later, Wurlitzer would experiment with matching wood music racks, before settling on the chrome rods of the 200-series rack. 

Wurlitzer 112 pedal

Original Wurlitzer pedals are very rare. This one is sadly missing its bottom half, but is otherwise complete. 

Wurlitzer 112 indicator light

Although the Wurlitzer is painted in a loud speckled pattern, some features are paradoxically minimalist. Take the tiny indicator light, for instance. 

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Further Reading

Browse all of our articles on restoring vintage gear. Or, click on an image below.

The Wurlitzer 112, Explained

The Wurlitzer 700, Explained

Removing Duct Tape from the Wurlitzer 140a

In Restoration: August 2018

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