Craies & Stavridi
Apollo House, 4, Bunhill Row, ECI. (1910)

Apollo Gramophone Co. Ltd.
Apollo House, 4, Bunhill Row, ECI.(1929)

Baxter Stavridi & Craies Ltd.
9 Commercial Road, Edmonton (1933)

Brand: Apollo

Constantine Craies and Alexander John Stavridi began their journey in the world of sound around 1900, initially as Apollo Talking Machine Manufacturers. They later diversified into crystal sets and radios in the early 1920s, but their foray into radio proved short-lived. By 1924, they refocused on gramophones and accessories.

In 1930, they marked a new chapter by establishing Apollo Gramophone Co. Ltd. and introducing the innovative Playing Desk record player. This innovative product connected to any radio with a pickup input, demonstrating their continued commitment to the gramophone industry while exploring new possibilities for audio enjoyment. This company was acquired by furniture manufacturers Baxter Stavridi & Craies Ltd. in 1933.

Constantine Craies (1882-1965) and Alexander John Stavridi embarked on their sonic journey around 1900, initially as makers of talking machines. Their innovative spirit shone brightly throughout their ventures:

1910: They unveiled a revolutionary hot air gramophone motor, lauded as "the most ingenious mechanism ever put into a talking machine" by Talking Machine World (January 1910). This marvel of engineering, protected by a patent, boasted a remarkable 12-hour runtime on a single fuel fill, ideal for showcasing records all day long. [1]

1918: Their commitment to progress continued with a patent for improvements in talking machines, pushing the boundaries of sound technology.

1922: Demonstrating their adaptability, they presented a crystal set at the 1922 Wireless Exhibition, dipping their toes into the burgeoning world of radio.

1922: patented the trademark Apollo in September.[2]

1922: They solidified their position in the gramophone industry with the British Industries Fair advertisement for 'Apollo' gramophones and parts, establishing their brand under the "Apollo" name.

1929: Apollo Gramophone Co. Ltd. flourished, offering a diverse range of portable, table grand, pedestal, and console gramophones, all distinguished by their signature Patented Deep Tone Resonator for exceptional sound quality. Their dedication to excellence was evident in their slogan, "First class workmanship and finish, magnificent tone and moderate price."

1929: A new chapter began with the formation of Apollo Gramophone Co. Ltd. at Bunhill Row, marking a significant evolution in their journey.[3]

1933: Baxter Stavridi & Craies Ltd., a renowned furniture manufacturer, acquired Apollo Gramophone Co. Ltd., showcasing the company's enduring connection to the Stavridi family and its ability to adapt to changing market trends. [4]

[1] The Talking Machine World Jan 15, 1910, Page 16.
[2] The Electrical Review Sep 15, 1922, Page 375.
[3] Wireless Magazine Oct 1930, Page 292.
[4] Wireless World Oct 3, 1933, Page Ad 2.