[R-390] Chinese parts

[2002tii]

Bob wrote:

>The ORIGINAL BFO in my '51 Contract Collins Blue Striper - has the tag
>still on it.  It is MADE BY *ARTISAN*.
>
>The Fair Radio BFOs are MADE BY *ARTISAN*.
>
>The BFOs being sold by Surplus Sales of Nebraska are MADE BY ARTISAN.
>
>Where ... did ANYONE derive that these are CHINESE PARTS!

I have not seen the allegedly Chinese BFOs, and have no direct 
knowledge regarding their provenance.

That said, manufacturers of reproduction parts often mark their 
products with original markings either to provide a veneer of 
authenticity or in an attempt to mislead buyers.  Sometimes, 
repro-part manufacturers even acquire the rights to the original 
trademark.  All of these strategies (and dozens more) are well 
developed in both the classic car repro market and the antique radio 
field (where there are repro Zenith, Philco, Hallicrafters, etc. 
parts marked with the original trademarks).  So it's quite often done 
for any of several reasons.

Again, I have no knowledge concerning the origin of 
currently-available "Artisan" BFOs.

Best regards,

Don