Zenith 1000Z Stratosphere

March 25 2019 was a very exciting day for me. 30 years of collecting and restoring radios hit it a high point. Most radio collector dream of finding a Zenith Stratosphere, I know not everyone is a Zenith guy. So some of us. Well March 25 2019 was my day. I have read most of the pros and cons about sharing. I think sharing with the radio community is important and outweighs the any of the issues talked about out in the internet. I am not bragging, just letting everyone know # 52 is found. Well at least ones that are known to the list keepers.

As you can see it is ruff but is very restorable. The cabinet has some issues but nothing I can’t handle. 4 knobs are missing, some veneer loss and a few chips. The chasses are rusted and the wire covers at the speakers are missing. Plus the back is missing. These are a few quick observations. I’m sure I’ll find other things along the way.

It was found here in Southern California about 35 miles from me. The radio found me, I did not find it. I will say the previous owner told me he had it for over 40 years. It was sitting in a garage behind the hinge and door spring where the weather could come in. No door seal. Yea I know Southern Ca weather is not as bad as most of you have. But 40 years next to a door unsealed.