Magnavox VR9110 (Full-Size VHS Movie HQ Camcorder)
Industrial Design / Consumer Electronics Object • Designed by Magnavox (North American Philips Corp Division); manufactured in Japan (likely by Matsushita/Panasonic for Magnavox).
Style & Movement
High-Tech / 1980s Retro-Futurism; characterized by geometric massing, monochromatic black finish, and utilitarian ergonomics.
Medium & Technique
Molded acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) plastic, glass optics, and electronic components; industrial mass-production assembly.
Creation Period
Circa 1985-1987
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 14 x 5 x 8 inches; Three-dimensional rectangular and ergonomic form stored in a hardshell carry case.
Subject Description
A shoulder-mounted analog video camera recorder designed for the consumer market. It features a top-loading tape compartment, integrated microphone, and hand strap. The iconography of the 'VHS HQ' logo represents the peak of home video recording technology of that era.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Fair to Poor; The object shows significant material degradation of the synthetic components.
Estimated Market Value
$30 - $70 USD in current 'parts only' condition.
Auction Estimate
$20 - $50 USD (Specialty electronics or prop auctions).
Provenance History
Likely a single-family owned consumer item; common to domestic estates of the late 20th century. No official gallery labels or exhibition marks are present.
Art Historical Significance
Represents the democratization of moving image production. Historically significant as part of the 'Format Wars' (VHS vs. Betamax) and the transition of filmmaking from professional studios to domestic spaces.
Notable Features
Includes original hardshell storage case and distinct 'VHS MOVIE' typography in white sans-serif font; visible 8-pin connector port for wired remote/power accessorizing.
Condition Issues
Severe flaking and rot on the foam microphone windscreen and hand strap padding; surface scuffing on the plastic casing; potential internal battery corrosion and belt failure due to age.
Conservation Recommendations
Mechanical cleaning to remove degraded foam particles; climate-controlled storage to prevent further plastic outgassing; removal of any internal lead-acid or nickel-cadmium batteries.