When author Jeff Walters explored writing a book about classic soda machines, he asked collectors what they wanted and they told him. "They didn't really care who was President of Vendo in 1956 or where F.L. Jacobs started out. They wanted a book that would mainly five them knowledge that would allow them to avoid making a bad deal, and help them recognize a good deal. So, that's what this book is about." And it does an exceptional job.
Page after page of exceptional machines are presented. Each page covers a model. More than half the page is filled with a high quality color photo or illustration. The history of the machine and known variations are told in a well written narrative typically of a paragraph in length. Specifications such as number of vends, dimensions, dates of production are provided as well as a rarity rating and values for average and for fully restored machines.
Machines for Coca-Cola, Seven Up, Pepsi Cola, Dr Pepper and Royal Crown Cola are each presented in their own chapter. There is also a chapter on the Ideal 55 Slider which was sold to numerous brands.
Classic Soda Machines reminds us that soda machines, much like jukeboxes, represent a form of Americana that was an important part of the 20th century.
Price: $22.50
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