A Collector’s Legacy: The Estate of Bob Bentley Lloyd

Celebrated Treasurer of the Music Box Society International 

 

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Abell Auction is proud to present a special event on February 6th, 2025, showcasing the extraordinary estate of Bob Bentley Lloyd, a celebrated businessman and collector of automated music boxes and instruments. This exclusive auction offers an opportunity to acquire rare and historically significant items from Lloyd’s renowned personal collection.

Bob Bentley Lloyd (1931–2023) lived a remarkable life of ingenuity, entrepreneurship, and a deep appreciation for craftsmanship. Born on a farm near Portales, New Mexico, Lloyd’s journey took him from humble beginnings to a decorated career in both business and the U.S. Navy. After serving aboard the U.S.S. Sperry during the Korean War, Lloyd’s entrepreneurial spirit led him to success in the retail and real estate industries.

His passion for restoring and collecting automated music boxes and instruments became a defining feature of his later years. A devoted member and officer of the Musical Box Society International (MBSI) and the Automatic Musical Instrument Collectors’ Association (AMICA), Lloyd curated an impressive collection of rare, antique mechanical instruments. These timeless pieces, which he meticulously restored, reflect his dedication to preserving musical history.

Among the highlights of the auction are several rare automated music boxes and instruments that showcase Lloyd’s discerning eye and meticulous restoration skills.

“We are honored to handle the estate of Bob Bentley Lloyd and to share his legacy with the world,” said Todd Schireson of Abell Auction. “This collection not only reflects his passion for innovation and preservation but also offers a unique opportunity to own a piece of history.”

In addition to his work as a collector, Lloyd’s life was marked by remarkable achievements. From starting Lloyd’s Bicycle Shop in Hollydale, California, to his leadership at the Fiesta Swimming Pool company and the founding of Royal House Sales, Lloyd was a visionary who left a lasting impact in every field he touched. He also found joy in travel, exploring destinations across the globe with his beloved wife, Diane, to whom he was married for 69 years.

The auction will take place on February 6th, 2025, at Abell Auction’s gallery in Los Angeles. A preview of the collection will be available online and in person for interested bidders. Don’t miss this extraordinary opportunity to honor the life and legacy of Bob Bentley Lloyd and to acquire pieces from his storied collection.

Featured Items:

  • A J.P. Seeburg Stained Glass Orchestrion Piano
  • Regina Corona Style 35 Automatic Disc-Changing Music Box (1901)
  • A Wurlitzer Oak and Stained Glass Orchestrion (c.1911)
  • Regina Style 34 Music Box (1902)
  • A Western Electric Piano Co. Oak and Stained Glass Nickelodeon
  • Chicago Electric Piano Nickelodeon by Smith, Barnes & Strohber Company (c. 1920)
  • A 25c Tel-A-Sign Scopitone ST36 Jukebox (c. 1963)
  • Polyphon 6 Music Box  https://youtube.com/shorts/V7lL1bMSkTU
  • A Paul Losche German Jazz Band Orchestrion (c.1918)
  • Cremona Style G Orchestrion (c.1910s) https://youtube.com/shorts/YfcjUIrVKe8?feature=share
  • A Nelson-Wiggen Piano Company Piano Orchestra
  • J.P. Seeburg KT Nickelodeon
  • A Mills One Armed Bandit 5 Cent Slot Machine
  • And many more clocks, vintage radios, and decorative objects

About Abell Auction
Established in 1916, Abell Auction is a premier auction house specializing in fine art, antiques, and estates. With over a century of expertise, Abell Auction is dedicated to offering unique and valuable items to discerning collectors and connoisseurs worldwide.