• TwitterFacebookGoogle PlusLinkedInRSS FeedEmail

Vibroplex Bug Serial Numbers

5/29/2019 
Vibroplex Bug Serial Numbers Rating: 9,4/10 8658 reviews
  1. Vibroplex Parts
  2. Vibroplex Telegraph
  3. Serial Numbers Microsoft
Vibroplex Bug Serial Numbers

For few years after WW1, Vibroplex advertised the number they had sold, so the dates are very accurate. John has added commas to the serial numbers to make the table easier to read. Vibroplex did not use commas inside serial numbers.

  • New ListingVibroplex Telegraph Key Bug . Serial No. 2089862

    See pictures.
    0 bids
    $26.30 shipping
    Ending May 26 at 6:30PM PDT6d 11hBrand: VibroplexCustoms services and international tracking provided
  • Vibroplex Champion Keyer, c. 1963 (serial #235169)

    Vibroplex Champion keyer from 1963. In generally good condition. Works well.
    Brand: Vibroplex
    $37.86 shipping
    Type: Straight KeysCustoms services and international tracking provided
  • 1962 Vibroplex Original Standard

    Vibroplex Original Standard bug. Serial number 228896. Appears to be missing the weight on the back. The key needs to be cleaned.
    Brand: Vibroplex
    $27.59 shipping
    Customs services and international tracking provided
  • 1944 Vibroplex Lightning bug deluxe

    Brand: Vibroplex
    $35.34 shipping
    Customs services and international tracking provided
  • KN4YB Right Angle Double Lever Bug Key Morse

    The KN4YB Right Angle bug key was designed side by side with the inline dual lever key. Here is a link for the YouTube Video that I published. Check out the new DL150 model video on youtube. KN4YB Right Angle Dual Lever Bug Key.
    Brand: Vibroplex
    $16.91 shipping
    Customs services and international tracking provided
  • 2013 Vibroplex original deluxe telegraph bug

    Brand: Vibroplex
    $34.96 shipping
    Customs services and international tracking provided
  • 1949 Vibroplex presentation bug

    Brand: Vibroplex
    $35.34 shipping
    Customs services and international tracking provided
  • New ListingVibroplex Original Morse Code Keyer Vintage SN 225423 HAM Radio Short Wave

    Vibroplex Original Morse Code Keyer Vintage SN 225423. Condition is Used. Shipped with USPS Priority Mail. I bought several items from the estate of an avid ham radio operator. This piece is in excellent condition. Includes the cable and plug. If you need additional information or pictures please ask. Thanks B3
    Brand: Vibroplex
    $26.07 shipping
    Customs services and international tracking provided
  • 1942 WW2 era Vibroplex Telegraph Key Original Morse Code Neat used Vintage

    Dates: 1942, made in USA, old and very cool. as found in estate, both have wear, the key has more wear, overall good condition.
    Brand: Vibroplex
    $26.93 shipping
    Customs services and international tracking provided
  • 1948 Vibroplex Chrome Telegraph Key Bug w Case EXCELLENT CONDITION More Listed

    Excellent condition but the original cord is in bad shape. Lot PK 8-18 Shelf 72.
    Brand: Vibroplex
    $71.75 shipping
  • 1927 Vibroplex Original Bug - Telegraph Key

    As pictured. No. 99624. Any questions please ask Check out my other items 1927 Vibroplex Original Bug - Telegraph Key . Condition is Used. Shipped with USPS Priority Mail.
    Brand: Vibroplex
    $32.20 shipping
    Customs services and international tracking provided
  • Vibroplex Vibrokeyer Deluxe for Ham Radio CW Morse Code Vintage 1979 SN 387906

    This item was recently removed from an active and operational ham station, and is expected to be fully operational. This key is in good condition for its age showing only minor wear. Aside from that, this is a very clean looking key!
    Top Rated Plus
    $70.00 shipping
    Brand: Vibroplex
  • 1970 Vibroplex Vibro-Keyer Paddle 833 Broadway SN 264484 Light Brown w Red Paddl

    Number 264484, it is a late production key that was still in the authentic serialization series. This is 'THE' classic Vibroplex paddle that ended the era of the Bug and one that started my ham career.
    Brand: Vibroplex
    $58.63 shipping
    Type: Iambic Paddles
  • 1940 Vibroplex blue racer

    Brand: Vibroplex
    $37.41 shipping
    Customs services and international tracking provided
  • 1958 Vibroplex Lightening Bug 833 Broadway St NY SN 205915 Navy Gray Cast Base

    For Sale: From 1952, a NOS Vibroplex Lightning Bug key built on a very pretty Navy Gray cast iron base. This is the 'Standard' model and dressed with the proper 'black' plastic finger pieces. For every reason I can think of for Vibroplex discontinuing this key, I can think of a reason why they would have been better off keeping it.
    Brand: Vibroplex
    $75.73 shipping
  • Vintage WW2 Vibroplex #124721 w/FCC Permit 1943 & Original Box

    World War 2 Historical Significance.
    Brand: Vibroplex
    $34.12 shipping
    Customs services and international tracking provided
  • Vibrokeyer KEY

    Up for Sale a Vibrokeyer KEY S# 222383. Nice condition, tested and works fine. We do our best to describe work that has been done, or minor repairs that we have made to the radio. You will be responsible for these fees.
    Brand: Vibroplex
    $38.36 shipping
    Customs services and international tracking provided
  • 1952 Vibroplex Lightening Bug 833 Broadway St NY SN 175732, a True Chrome Deluxe

    It has the Saphire bearings on top & bottom of the vertical pivot rod. If you haven't added one of these to your collection, this key would be a very nice addition. Condition: Lightly used and in excellent to almost new condition.
    Brand: Vibroplex
    $75.73 shipping
  • Vintage Vibroplex Key SN 219782 Mfg Date 1961

    Vintage Vibroplex Key SN 219782 Mfg Date 1961 based on the research and writings of John Elwood copyright 1996 (Birth Dates of the Vibroplex Keys). Condition is used and shows signs of wear from normal usage. There is some rust on the base. See pics for further details and description. Shipped with USPS Priority Mail. Thank you for looking at my listing.
    0 bids
    $18.04 shipping
    Ending Saturday at 9:14AM PDT5d 1hBrand: VibroplexCustoms services and international tracking provided
  • 1916 Vibroplex Original Telegraph Bug SN 56523 made by H. Martin in New York

    Now over100 years old, the key has not only survived well but continues to work well. Built on a cast iron base which was hand filed to smooth the corners, it was then drilled, and then black laquered to give, at least when it was new, a stunning show of itself.
    Brand: Vibroplex
    $75.73 shipping
  • Vintage Vibroplex Presentation Key SN 183695 Mfg Date 1953

    Vintage Vibroplex Presentation Key SN 183695 Mfg Date 1953 based on the research and writings of John Elwood copyright 1996. Condition is used and shows signs of wear from normal usage. There is some rust on the base. See pics for further details and description. Shipped with USPS Priority Mail. Thank you for looking at my listing.
    0 bids
    $18.04 shipping
    Ending Saturday at 9:05AM PDT5d 1hBrand: VibroplexCustoms services and international tracking provided
  • 1916 Vibroplex blue racer

    1916 cobalt blue racer sn 55579.
    Brand: Vibroplex
    $37.63 shipping
    Customs services and international tracking provided
  • 1914 Vibroplex blue racer

    Early blue racer B978.
    Brand: Vibroplex
    $37.25 shipping
    Customs services and international tracking provided
  • vibroplex code key lighting bug mid 50s grey crackle base m damper s.n. #209656

    This have been produced in mid 50s with S.N. 209656. This is the 7th vibroplex introduced model (1926-1979) and manufactured in the 50s when the production was still in New York. This version features the M damper and it is known as lighting bug or #6.
    Top Rated Plus
    $37.58 shipping
    Brand: VibroplexBand: AMCustoms services and international tracking provided
  • 1913 Vibroplex model x

    Brand: Vibroplex
    $38.02 shipping
    Customs services and international tracking provided
  • W8HOG Bug Zapper Brass Weight - Fits Vibroplex Round, Flat, & X Shaft Keyers

    For sale is a new W8HOG Bug Zapper that Fits Vibroplex Round And Flat Shaft Bugs. The BUG ZAPPER slows Vibroplex Bugs down so they are much easier to learn. The two Vibroplex Bugs pictured are for reference only, you are buyingone BUG ZAPPER brass weight.
    Brand: Vibroplex
    $19.85 shipping
    Customs services and international tracking provided
  • Vibroplex M629 microphone and XLR cable for Flex Radio transceivers

    This is a like-new Vibroplex M629 dynamic microphone. I purchased it new and tested it, but it was never used as I sold the transceiver I was going to use it with. This mic is perfect for Flex Radio transceivers (I tested with model 6500) and this model is currently being sold online by Flex for use with their radios. When you buy the bare microphone for $79.00, you get just the mic - NO CABLE. With this one, I'm including a brand new 6' cable with an XLR connector on each end for the Flex transceiver. The mic is perfect for mounting in an extendable boom.
    Brand: Vibroplex
    $27.57 shipping
    Customs services and international tracking provided
  • 1944 Vibroplex Lightening Bug 833 Broadway St NY SN 135200, a Vy Nice WW2 Key

    For Sale: From 1944, a Standard Model Vibroplex Lightning Bug key sn 135200. 'Red' was used to signify the special 'Deluxe' when jeweled bearings were used. If you haven't added one of these to your collection, this key would be a very nice addition.
    Brand: Vibroplex
    $75.73 shipping
  • 1926 Vibroplex Original No. 1 Bug 796 Fulton St NY SN 99432 Black Cast Base

    I rate it as a 8-9 out of 10 easily.
    Brand: Vibroplex
    $75.73 shipping
  • 1960 Vibroplex 'Original' Bug 833 Broadway St NY SN 211603 Navy Gray Cast Base

    For Sale: From 1960, a lightly used & properly treated Vibroplex Original Bug key built on a very pretty Navy Gray cast iron base. This is near the end of the cast iron base production and layout & machine work is as perfect as I have ever seen.
    Brand: Vibroplex
    $75.73 shipping
  • 1938 Martin Flash Key (Nickel Plated) Martin Res & Mfg Co. SN 5085 New York, NY

    Now near 90 years of age, the bug is Vibroplex to its core no matter what label you put on it. Martin Flash keys were short lived and there were not very many of them. This is a nickel plated Martin and it is almost 95-100% without issue.
    Brand: Vibroplex
    $75.73 shipping
  • Vibroplex Original Presentation Key, year unknown?

    Vibroplex Original Presentation Key year of mfg. 1957 Condition is Used. The Deluxe chrome version of the “L” damper is made from two cast pieces. The lower piece is shaped like the letter L. The upper cast piece is hinged to it and supports a damper wheel.The Deluxe chrome version of the VIBROPLEX original bug includes bright decorative chrome base and top parts plus jeweled spring l8aded movement. Does have etchings of past users as seen in pictures. See my other keyer for sale Shipped with USPS Priority Mail.
    0 bids
    $34.28 shipping
    Ending Wednesday at 9:27PM PDT2d 14hBrand: VibroplexType: Iambic PaddlesCustoms services and international tracking provided
  • 1944 Vibroplex Classic Original Bug 833 Broadway St NY SN 132155 Black Cast Base

    This key is one of the last of the labor intensive No 1's probably assembled from remaining No 1 parts while the casting conversion was underway. The flash exposures highlight the dust on the key, not visible to the naked eye in normal room light.
    Brand: Vibroplex
    $75.73 shipping
  • ham radio morse code telegraph key bug 2 8-32 BLUE nuts Vibroplex blue racer etc

    The blue nuts Vibroplex forgot. Look good on the blue finish blue racers. I hunt down things other people might not notice, or things people might not know are unique or interesting or rare or historical.
    Brand: Vibroplex
    $18.19 shipping
    Customs services and international tracking provided
  • 1910 Vibroplex double lever

    1910 Vibroplex double lever,B1 plate,interesting details similar to Norcross as this key was of the first from the NY move.right paddle not original.
    Brand: Vibroplex
    $39.16 shipping
    Customs services and international tracking provided
  • Vintage 1949 Vibroxplex Telegraph Key Presentation Bug Chrome & Red Bakelite

    Top Rated Plus
    $20.55 shipping
    Brand: VibroplexCustoms services and international tracking provided
  • Vtg Vibroplex Telegraph Morse Code Keyer Key Bug Champion Model Navy USS Hancock

    Brand: Vibroplex
    $31.93 shipping
    Customs services and international tracking provided
  • Vintage Vibroplex Telegraph Key

    Vintage Vibroplex Telegraph Key. Item is untested. The part in the middle that you tap with your finger isn't really fixed on attached to the main unit by anything and moves around easily. I assume that some parts might be missing out of that assembly. Not sure though as I do not know how it should look or be put together. Feel free to message me if you have any questions I am required to collect sales tax from Texas buyers
    Brand: Vibroplex
    $18.27 shipping
    Customs services and international tracking provided
  • 1920 Vibroplex Key Bug Morse Code Telegraph Key Antique C MY OTHER HAM RADIO

    Brand: Vibroplex
    $34.33 shipping
    Customs services and international tracking provided
  • 1928 Vibroplex Lightening Bug 796 Fulton St NY SN 103030 Black Cast Base

    And no, it's not perfect but overall it has survived a century with virtually all of its charm. These are now long out of production and if you haven't added a Lightning Bug to your collection this key would make a good addition.
    Brand: Vibroplex
    $75.73 shipping
  • Vibroplex Key Keyer Bug Telegraph Morse Code Ham Radio Serial # 389513

    From Canada
    Was: Previous Price$326.89
    Brand: Vibroplex
  • OldTelegraph key vibroplex

    VIBROPLEX # 184770 FOR COLLECTORS , GOOD PRICE.
    Brand: Vibroplex
  • Antique Vibroplex Bug No. 85301 / Western Electric Sounder

    Brand: Vibroplex
    or Best Offer
  • Morse Key VIBROPLEX Original Standard Speed Keyer Bug 1945 sn 138723

    Serial number is 138723. From an estate sale - I really don't know anything about these keys but the keyer seems to be complete but may need a bit of cleaning.
    Top Rated Plus
    or Best Offer
    Brand: Vibroplex
  • VIBROPLEX BUG - ORIGINAL DELUXE

    Includes lexan dust cover and carry case. Needs foam insert to specifically fit BUG. Two other foam inserts included to fit straight key and paddle key.
    0 bidsEnding Wednesday at 7:53AM PDT2dBrand: Vibroplex
  • New ListingMorse Key VIBROPLEX Original Standard Speed Keyer Bug sn 120636

    Morse Key VIBROPLEX Original Standard Speed Keyer Bug sn 120636. Condition is Used. Shipped with USPS Priority Mail.
    0 bids
    or Best Offer
    Ending May 26 at 3:17PM PDT6d 7hBrand: Vibroplex
  • vibroplex

    As Is ..Serial # 116379 vibroplex . Condition is Used. I think this was made about 1941 .Plate says 798 Fulton Street Brooklyn .Shipped with USPS Priority Mail.
    0 bids
    or Best Offer
    Ending Friday at 11:30AM PDT4d 4hBrand: Vibroplex
  • Vibroplex 161724 vintage Ham radio tube transmitter telegraph morse code key bug

    7 bidsEnding Saturday at 6:00PM PDT5d 10hBrand: Vibroplex

Got one to sell?

Get it in front of 160+ million buyers.

Showing slide {CURRENT_SLIDE} of {TOTAL_SLIDES} - Make an Offer

  • Vibroplex Original Morse Code Keyer Vintage SN 225423 HAM Radio Short Wave
    +$26.07 shipping
  • 1942 WW2 era Vibroplex Telegraph Key Original Morse Code Neat used Vintage
    +$26.93 shipping
  • Vibroplex Vibrokeyer Deluxe for Ham Radio CW Morse Code Vintage 1979 SN 387906
    +$70.00 shipping
  • vibroplex code key lighting bug mid 50s grey crackle base m damper s.n. #209656
    +$37.58 shipping
  • Vibroplex Original Presentation Key, year unknown?
    +$34.28 shipping
  • Vtg Vibroplex Telegraph Morse Code Keyer Key Bug Champion Model Navy USS Hancock
    +$31.93 shipping
  • Antique Vibroplex Bug No. 85301 / Western Electric Sounder
    Make Offer
  • Morse Key VIBROPLEX Original Standard Speed Keyer Bug 1945 sn 138723
    Make Offer
  • Morse Key VIBROPLEX Original Standard Speed Keyer Bug sn 120636
    Make Offer
  • $50.004d 4h
Tell us what you think - opens in new window or tab

After the Autoplex and Original models, Vibroplex came up with numerous other models through the years, representing various levels of 'improvement'.Below you will find a list of all the different models, along with pictures of each.

Although it has changed hands several times over the years, Vibroplex is still in business today !

For more information about the different Vibroplex models, including how to estimate the date your key was made from the serial number, check out Randy Cole's excellent website on Vibroplex keys.

(Click on the pictures below to see larger versions of the photo)

The Martin Autoplex(1902-1904)

The Autoplex, as it was manufactured, looks quite different from the original patent drawing, but this is often the case with inventions.

It's a bit of an intimidating instrument, both in appearance and in operation. It makes quite a racket when sending dots and generates visible sparks at the keying contacts.

The first version of the Autoplex, which is quite rare, was built on a wooden base. The later version was all metal, nickel plated brass.

Vibroplex Original(1904-Present)

The first Original Model came in 2 different finishes. The standard finish was a black lacquer with gold pinstripes along the edge.

Vibroplex Parts

The key was also available in nickel plated finish. The Original entered production around 1904 and is still being made today with only minor design changes,most notably the removal of the circuit closer since landline telegraph circuits are no longer in use.

Double Lever(1907-1926)

The Double Lever, as the name suggests, added a second short lever to be used for sending dashes.

This model was first introduced when Martin moved the Vibroplex operation to Norcross Georgia for a few years starting in 1907.

Pictured are the early model with the square frame (ca. 1907) and the later model with the cloverleaf shaped frame (ca. 1920).

Norcross, Georgia Label Keys (1907-1909)

Martin moved the operation from New York to Norcross Georgia for a short time starting in 1907 and sold his Vibroplex keys under the name of United Electric Mfg. Co. It was while in Norcross that he invented the Double-Lever Vibroplex. The earlier Norcross keys were built using a metal base that was much thinner than the orginal design which required the use of a fold-out extension leg to keep the key from moving around on the table.

Because so few of the Norcross bugs were made, they are highly sought after by collectors. Pictured above are a Norcross Original on a standard thick base on the left, and a rare half-frame thin base double lever key center and right.

Model X(1911-1923)

The Model X was an interesting design modification that used an ingenious mechanism to allow both the dots and dashes to use the same set of contacts. Some people feel they are a little clunky to operate but they did the job.

There were 2 versions of this key. The first one had a square weight and pendulum arm, while the second version, which was somewhat more simplified, used round weights and pendulum arm.

Hurts wonderful life mp3. After purchase, we'll add your email to our mailing list, but we will give you the chance to unsubscribe.

Patent 457 Bug (~1912)

Although at first glance it might look like a Model X, this is actually a unique key. Horace Martin patented this key under patent number 1,042,457. If you look closely and compare the two models you can spot the differences, most notably the Patent 457 key uses 2 sets of contacts like the Original.

Supposedly 100 of these keys were made but only 1 example is currently known, making it the rarest Vibroplex model ! (Randy Cole, KN6W Collection)

Model 4 / Blue Racer(1914-1962)

The Model 4, also known as the Blue Racer, was introduced in 1914. Its design and construction is pretty much identical to the Original, except for using smaller components on a narrower 2.5' wide base. (The Original model and many of the other models were built on a 3.5' wide base).

It was called the Blue Racer because one of the available finishes was a cobalt blue lacquer color. Free download remote desktop software crack sites. The key was also offered in black japanned lacquer with gold pinstripes, nickel plated, and later black or gray crackle paint finishes. During WW2 the key was also offered in Battleship Gray crackle finish.

The Model 4 was also available on a standard 3.5' wide base. An example can be seen above, at the right.

The Upright Model (1917-1919)

The Upright model was also known as The Wirechief's Key. The Wirechief usually had managerial duties to perform as well as acting as a telegrapher, so his desk often had lots of paperwork on it. The Wirechief Key took up less room on the desk. It is estimated there were around 50 of these made, and around 30 are known to exist.

The Midget (1918-1920)

Another of the rarer Vibroplex Models, there are only 9 of these currently known. Due to its small size and light weight, the key required the use of a fold out extension leg to help keep it stable on the operating table. Even with the leg, the key still moved around a lot which is why it was not made for very long.

Model 6 - Lightning Bug (1927-1979)

The Lightning Bug can be recognized by the assembled trianglular plate frame and 'goalpost' damper assembly. It was a pretty popular model, judging from the fact that it was made all the way to 1979. During WW2 Vibroplex also made the Lightning Bug for the Army Signal Corps under the designator J-36.

In addition, the Lionel Corporation (yes, the model train company) also made J-36 keys of the same design for the Army.

Colored Vibroplexes

During the Depression era of the early 1930's, Vibroplex offered their keys (Original, Lightning Bug, Blue Racer) in red, blue, and green finish. Here is a picture of some Vibroplex Originals in all 3 colors, plus the Western Union maroon color that was available in the early 1920's.

The Martin Junior(1920-1939)

The Junior model was virtually identical to the Original model except that the base was 1/2' narrower. Another way to distinguish a Junior from an Original is the nameplate is mounted upside down compared to the Original.

Zephyr(1939-1958)

The Zephyr Model closely resembles the Lightning Bug with the assembled triangular plate frame. The differences are the Zephyr has a narrower 3' wide base and uses a simpler damper assembly.

Champion(1939-1980)

The Champion model is identical to the Zephyr except that it lacks a circuit closer, and has the normal 3.5' wide base.

PresentationModel (1948-Present)

Vibroplex Telegraph

Around 1940, Vibroplex started using chrome plating on some of their keys. They then called the chrome plated keys 'Deluxe' models, and were available with the Original, Lightning Bug, and Blue Racer.

Serial Numbers Microsoft

The Presentation Model was also known as the Super-Deluxe. It was basically the same as a Deluxe model with the addition of a gold plated brass plate on top of the base. The earlier version of the key also had a mainspring that could be adjusted in length to allow the operator to change the dot speed. Here are pictures of the Deluxe and Super-Deluxe, or Presentation.


Big fish games crack keygen.