Kirby 508

[bee-vac]

Craigslist find that just couldn't wait, got a new addition now, a Kirby 508!

 

[sanitairewill]

Very nice! From 1948. I have a 508 I'm restoring. All polished just have to get the right parts

 

[bee-vac]

Sanitairewill

Any photos? I really love the look of these early Kirbys in black wheels. When did Kirby stop with the black magic fingers? Were 508s the first to come out with the red ones?

 

[lesinutah]

Yes

Kirby magic finger was created in 1946-1947. The 505 first produces in 1945 had a belt cap. I have one of these models. It could have been as early as late 1945. The 505 with black belt lifter in which first magic fingers was introduced. The 508 has a red belt lifter and in same Kirby calligraphy. If you notice the circle on the k of Kirby.
The 509 through 513, 514 or 515 the belt lifter calligraphy changed on 509 but it remained red through 513 etc. I'm guessing the magic fingers last appeared on dual sanitronic 80.
Les

 

[caligula]

The Kirby logo

was modeled after James B. Kirby's signature.

 

[lesinutah]

Caligula

The Kirby c 2c have a little different bag than 4c and 505. Do you know the origins of that signature?
Les

 

[caligula]

Hi Les.

I do, but the documents are filed away. If I'm correct it was in 'The Man who revolutionized the American home,' by Lowell Thomas. I'll search for it tomorrow.

 

[lesinutah]

Thanks

I've wondered where they came from. I know the ones with his signature. I also know d80 ended it's production and 1cr came out. He died in 1971 when the 16 inch started.
Les