The Zenith Trans-Oceanic, the Royalty of Radios

by John H. Bryant, Harold N. Cones

The previously untold story of the Zenith Trans-Oceanic, the world's most romantic and expensive series of portable radios. Long a companion of kings, presidents, transoceanic yachtsmen and world explorers, the Trans-Oceanic was also carried into battle by American troops in three wars. Its great popularity in spite of a very high price can be laid at the feet of several generations of armchair travelers who used the shortwave capabilities of the Trans-Oceanic as a window on the world. With access to the Zenith corporate archives and their long experience as radio enthusiasts and writers for both the popular and scholarly press, Professors Bryant and Cones present the engrossing stories of the development and use of the Trans-Oceanic throughout its forty year life. They present a wealth of never-before published photographs, documents and information concerning these fascinating radios, their collection, preservation and restoration.

Paperback

First published March 1, 1995

Reviews

[Allan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the definitive guide to the radio portable that for many years was the dream of many US listeners and radio enthusiasts. I used to own two different models, a 3000 and R7000. My enthusiasm for SW radio compelled me to buy this book.

This is the book having almost everything you might want to know about a Zenith TransOceanic portable SW and communication receiver. These radios continued to use mini tubes well into the 1960s and were slow to convert over to solid state technology.