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I jumped on this particular example despite its condition and incompleteness, minus even the guard initially, because I noticed that it was a new variant, as far as I knew. Aside from many extra holes, some of which appear to indicate this is a 3-strut fan rather than one as the other known examples, the base is significantly different. So, here's a "special" fan from the Specialty Manufacturing Company of Indianapolis, Indiana There are FIVE IMAGES of the fan, followed by the 1896 patent and TWO other known examples of this fan to compare. NOTE that my base design more closely resembles the cross section in the patent drawing. If you review the text of the patent 0565772, you will find that the holes in the rim of the base appear to be for the guard mounting. (PDF DOWNLOAD) 0565772.pdf

I recently picked up this 8" nickel plated Fitzgerald Mfg Star Electric. A Model 1200 with a three speed universal motor. Save for the cage being bent in transit, it's seems to be in really good shape. Particularly for being around 100 years old. The insides and wiring all look solid. The brush/spring assemblies look like it was barely used. Commutator was clean with no wear. Not sure of it's history, but it really doesn't look like anyone's been inside. The nuts, etc, all looked undisturbed. It even has the paper tag on the bottom that makes me think it sat in a box for most of its life. The finish looks to be in good shape, no real pitting that I can see but it needs cleaned/polished. I've read several threads in the old forum about cleaning nickel finish, suggestions were everything from just soap/water to WD-40 with 0000 steel wool and a very light touch. Or even non-pumice hand cleaner. Anyone have experience with these, with cleaning/polishing the nickel? I presume it's pretty thin and I want to make sure not to get aggressive. I'd rather take baby steps to get it done. Here are some pictures as received and as opened up.