After answering a few group posts on the topic and looking over older transformers that I have chosen to keep over the years (more on why I keep some will follow) I have decided to try to come up with a little bit of a quick reference for others to try to get into the ballpark even if an exact date of production is not to be found.Īt some point, certainly by the 1970’s and 1980’s, most of the remaining manufacturers of neon sign transformers began using a simple two digit month/two digit year as the serial number.

For now, I will confine this post to the subject of neon sign transformers. In a world where fake items are prevalent, this can be of great value to the collector or historian. Such information can therefore be helpful in assessing the authenticity of an item, or at least when it was last serviced or restored. (see “Look at These Bits of Wire”) In the case of antique radios, for example, it could be possible to replicate a wood case….but much harder to replicate internal components. This cannot be confined to the outwardly visible parts, but must be carried right down to individual components and even the wire types used. When dealing with many vintage items, it is often helpful to look closely at construction and design techniques as these are a good indicator of the general age.

You will often be amazed at how long this stuff lasts! In a more practical sense, such information gives a good indication of how old the sign really is or at least when it had last required a new transformer during a servicing event. The value of this information goes a little further than simply answering the idle curiosity….although curiosity is more than enough reason for me to pursue the topic. On one of the neon groups that I am a member of, we have had several of the posts along the lines of “what year is this transformer from?” when someone has an old sign they are servicing or restoring.

If this proves to be the case, I will be sure to specify the date that I made any additions or corrections to it and keep things such that it will be possible to keep track of what was learned along the way. NOTE: This post is a little different in that it is one I expect, actually hope, to be able to update and revise as new information becomes available. This one has a June 4th, 1951 date stamped on it. H&K high power factor type with separate capacitor compartment and unusual glass insulators.

Ge transformer serial numbers