The Official Vintage Curtis Mathes site by Glenn Waters
The Official Vintage Curtis Mathes site by Glenn Waters
Curtis Mathes, Vintage Electronics, Televisions, Stereos, Radios, VCRs, Multiplexes, Speakers, Eight Track Players, Cassette Tape Decks, Reel to Reel Players, Wall to Wall Entertainment Centers, Curtis Mathes LPs, Camcorders, Mathes Coolers and Fans, Made in the USA. Design
Welcome to the Curtis Mathes Vintage Site by Glenn Waters, here we cover every aspect of the early days and the golden era of Curtis Mathes. From the early days of the Mathes Cooler Fans the the start of the Curtis Mathes Electronics Company. We cover every aspect from the first Curtis Mathes televisions to the last television to come off the assembly line in Athens Texas. Curtis Mathes Advertisements, Curtis Mathes Stereos, Curtis Mathes wall to wall complete Entertainment Centers, Curtis Mathes VCR Players and recorders, Curtis Mathes Camcorder, Curtis Mathes LPs and Records, Curtis Mathes Reel to Reel, Curtis Mathes Cassette Players, there is so much more, the list of electronics is amazing.



Karah and Cora holding A 1960 Curtis Mathes Store banner in Royal Purple
The banner is royal purple, and the trim is in gold along with the lettering this was how it all started in the early days
Welcome to Official Vintage Curtis Mathes Site by Glenn Waters

I'm sure you heard the news that Glenn's Vintage Curtis Mathes site is back. Step back in time and experience the elegance and charm of the 1960s with the Curtis Mathes Console Television! The Curtis Mathes of the early 1960s are iconic pieces, showcasing its rich wood finishes and timeless mid-century modern design. One could marvel at its superior picture quality and sound, complete with built-in stereo speakers that made it the ultimate home entertainment hub of its era. Discover why the Curtis Mathes Console TV was more than just a device; it was a centerpiece of style and innovation. Don't forget to like and share this nostalgic journey with your friends! Retro Glam: 1960s Curtis Mathes Console TV. #curtismathes1960tv #midcenturymodern #VintageElectronics #retrotechnology #homeentertainment




This advertisement below evokes a strong nostalgic feel, typical of late 1970s to early 1980s marketing. The Curtis Mathes console TV, prominently featured, exemplifies the luxurious, furniture-like design of television sets from that era. The festive Christmas setting with the elegant, well-dressed family surrounding the console reinforces a sense of tradition, family values, and the significance of having premium home entertainment during holiday gatherings.
The TV itself is framed as a centerpiece of family life, which was common in ads of the time. The deer scene on the TV screen adds to the sense of nature and tranquility, while the elaborate decorations, Christmas trees, and presents tie into the holiday spirit. The ad's inclusion of a six-year exclusive limited warranty emphasizes the quality and durability associated with Curtis Mathes products, known for their longevity compared to other brands.
Overall, this ad successfully combines warmth, elegance, and a sense of trust in the brand, making it appealing to families looking for a reliable, long-lasting entertainment product. It’s a perfect example of how holiday ads were designed to connect emotionally with consumers.

In the video below: Discover the fascinating rise of Curtis Mathes as a leading television manufacturer, renowned for its blend of luxury and family values. Learn how their savvy advertising strategies resonated with American families, positioning their TVs as stylish, aspirational furniture pieces and status symbols. Explore the heartwarming festive campaigns that made Curtis Mathes televisions the perfect Christmas gift, enhancing family gatherings with togetherness and warmth. Find out how the strategic marketing, high-quality craftsmanship, and emphasis on durability set Curtis Mathes apart, earning the loyalty of middle and upper-middle-class families aiming for upward mobility. Don’t miss this deep dive into a brand that defined an era! #CurtisMathes #VintageTV #FamilyValues #LuxuryLiving #AmericanDream #HolidayAds #TVHistory


The advertisement below is the 1961 Jackson Console Model, the ad features a well-dressed family, implying sophistication and stability. The parents, along with their daughters, all appear well-groomed and affluent. This likely targets a middle-class or upper-middle-class audience that values family life and educational achievement.
There is a message that refers to the daughters having Master's Degrees in English literature. This seems to emphasize that even highly educated people can appreciate Curtis Mathes, perhaps suggesting that the product is high-quality and sophisticated, not just for casual users.
Focus on Education and Intelligence: The text highlights that "you do not need to be book smart to know Curtis Mathes is the best television and stereo for your investment." This message plays with the idea that while the family is highly educated, the product itself is approachable and intuitive for everyone. It suggests that choosing Curtis Mathes products is a smart investment, appealing to both practicality and high standards.
Luxury and Elegance: The background includes bookshelves and fine décor, implying that the product is for refined homes. The wording, “Elegance in home entertainment,” also reinforces this theme of luxury.The furniture-style television and stereo unit itself is designed to blend into a sophisticated living room, rather than standing out as a piece of technology. It’s integrated into a wooden console, which would have been seen as a more elegant option compared to standalone TVs.
High Fidelity Television and Stereo: The advertisement emphasizes "high fidelity," which was an important feature in electronics during the 1960s. Consumers were becoming more discerning about sound and picture quality, so the ad is pushing the idea that Curtis Mathes offers superior technology in this area.
The TV on display is showing an image from the black-and-white era, possibly a popular show like "I Love Lucy," which was a familiar program in many homes during the early 1960s. This appeals to nostalgia or familiarity with well-loved TV programming. The model number (J1523) and technical specifications are listed, lending a sense of professionalism and trustworthiness, appealing to consumers who value detailed information.
The ad seeks to present "The Jackson" as a premium, reliable, and elegant choice for families who value quality home entertainment. The imagery and messaging target educated and affluent consumers, but the message also assures that it is a smart investment for anyone, whether or not they have technical or academic expertise. It's a classic example of early 1960s advertising that blends sophistication, family values, and technological promise into one cohesive and visually appealing marketing campaign.

WELCOME
Say hello to two more Vintage Curtis Mathes Site Girls by Glenn Waters. Are they not lovely, their names are Becky and Cathy. I love the dresses that they made themselves and they are also so very sweet. Now we have six girls on our team.

Shown Below is the McKavitt Model Number 54M0563 it is a lovely all Maple Early American Color Console Curtis Mathes. It was in the Production lineup of the Beautiful Ones for 1971, this model was a great seller for Christmas that year.

The advertisement above featuring the Curtis Mathes McKavitt Model 54M0563 continues to reflect the classic elegance and family-centered marketing strategy of the early 1970s. The model itself, described as part of the "Beautiful Ones" lineup, is noted for its "Early American Styling" with its all-maple design, a style that was highly popular during this period, catering to consumers who preferred the TV to also serve as a fine piece of home furniture.
The family in formal attire, with a Christmas setting again, reinforces the notion that Curtis Mathes TVs were not just functional appliances but prestigious additions to the home, blending perfectly with refined décor. The Super Bright 23" Screen, mentioned in the details, would have been a strong selling point at the time, especially considering its advanced features like the Automatic Fine Tuning (AFT) and Automatic Tint Control (ATC), which improved picture quality and ease of use for viewers.
The focus on the six-year warranty and solid craftsmanship, highlighted with selected hardwoods and veneers, again speaks to Curtis Mathes’ reputation for durability and high-quality manufacturing. The distribution graphic emphasizes the company's streamlined process from manufacturer to customer, building trust with potential buyers by showcasing transparency.
This ad, with its clear emphasis on both beauty and reliability, encapsulates the appeal of Curtis Mathes products during the holiday season. It’s easy to see why this model was such a hit in 1971, as it combined technological innovation with an aesthetic that fit seamlessly into the family living room of that era.

The advertisement below was designed for a billboard, this image showcases a classic Curtis Mathes advertisement, likely from the early 1960s, highlighting the Hanover model, which combined a television, AM/FM radio, and stereo system. The ad reflects the mid-century aesthetic, with clean lines, elegant furniture, and a family gathered around the console TV, a symbol of entertainment and family unity during that era.
The overall design speaks to Curtis Mathes' focus on sophistication and high-quality craftsmanship, as seen in the luxurious couch, draped curtains, and chandeliers. The emphasis on the "elegance in home entertainment" slogan ties the product to an aspirational lifestyle. The ad also reflects how televisions of that era were integrated into the home as a piece of furniture, blending with decor rather than being a standalone electronic device.
It’s a beautifully done piece of advertisement, capturing both the technological sophistication and the lifestyle appeal that Curtis Mathes aimed for in that period.

The Photo Below: This is a Lovely 1980 Curtis Mathes Advertisement for the Curtis Mathes Color Console Model H2508ME
This advertisement has a classic and elegant aesthetic, capturing the vintage appeal of Curtis Mathes products from 1980. The formal attire of the people, the ornate console television, and the bold promotional text give it a nostalgic charm. It effectively conveys a sense of luxury and high quality, especially with the mention of a "6-year exclusive limited warranty" and a free VCR with purchase. The composition, with its warm colors and structured layout, feels like a blend of traditional advertising and a digital collage, making it visually striking.


In the video below: Step back in time with our introduction to the Curtis Mathes Console Television, featuring the stunning 1960 Kingston Model K1523 Television. Discover the elegance and charm that this vintage beauty exudes. Marvel at the meticulous craftsmanship and American-made components that set the Kingston Model K1523 apart. Relive the nostalgic experience of families gathering around this iconic console, celebrating its role in creating cherished memories. Plus, get an exclusive look at Glenn’s Vintage Curtis Mathes site, where history and innovation meet. Don't forget to like and share this video if you enjoyed this nostalgic journey! #GlennsVintageElectronics #CurtisMathes #VintageTelevision #KingstonModelK1523 #RetroTech #AmericanCraftsmanship
David Hedison as Captain Lee B. Crane on Voyage to the Bottom of the Sea on the 1960 Curtis Mathes Kingston Model K1523 has the new CM high-fidelity 23 inch picture tube. The first seasons black and white episodes are amazing on this picture tube.

The Vintage Curtis Console Television, featuring the stunning 1960 Kingston K1523
The Video Below: Journey back to 1971, where Curtis Mathes ruled the airwaves with their stunning color TVs! In 1971, Curtis Mathes was the name on everyone’s lips when it came to innovative color televisions. They weren’t just producing TVs; they were crafting pieces of art. From the Three-Star basic color models to the top-of-the-line Six-Star wonders, each set was a blend of cutting-edge technology and exquisite design. Imagine watching your favorite shows with automatic fine tuning, automatic tint control, and a black matrix super bright picture tube. And let’s not forget the gold contact tuner that ensured the finest picture quality—no matter the price. Curtis Mathes gave you options, style, and the best viewing experience possible. So, sit back and relive the magic of the 70s with these amazing color televisions from the Vintage Curtis Mathes collection by Glenn Waters. They truly were the best of the best!

1985 Curtis Mathes Five in One Television Console Model K2675RK, Curtis Mathes Chassis Number C87-3, Made May 1985
The advertisement below beautifully captures the elegance and sophistication of vintage Curtis Mathes consoles. The combination of the luxurious formal attire of the models, the detailed product description, and the nostalgic design elements create a sense of refined 1980s home entertainment. The emphasis on quality materials, multi-functionality, and warranty makes it clear that Curtis Mathes was positioning itself as a premium brand. The floral TV screen is a unique touch. The floral image on the screen was a clever way to showcase the vibrant color quality of the picture tube. The Curtis Mathes Five in One Television Console truly embodied luxury and innovation for its time—combining a high-end color television with multiple audio formats in a single, beautifully crafted unit. At a price of around $2,500 in 1985, it was definitely a premium product, aimed at consumers who wanted both style and cutting-edge home entertainment.

More about the Advertisement above: The inclusion of both cassette and 8-track players reflects the transitional phase in audio technology during that era, making sure users had access to both formats. It’s fascinating how Curtis Mathes positioned itself as a brand that not only delivered quality electronics but also emphasized elegant furniture design. I was a member of the design team for the cabinet, and this model played a role in shaping a true luxury entertainment center of the 1980s. The lift-up lid was a brilliant choice—both stylish and functional, keeping everything neatly tucked away while allowing easy access to the music components. It’s also impressive that the remote control could manage most tuning features, adding to the convenience and sophistication of the unit.
1961 Curtis Mathes Line of Production, Televisions, Stereos, & Radios, Home Entertainment Elegance
1961 Curtis Mathes Line of Production, Televisions, Stereos, & Radios, Home Entertainment Elegance. Discover the heart of your home with Curtis Mathes! Our latest video delves into the legacy and innovation behind Curtis Mathes's entertainment centers, renowned for blending elegance, quality, and affordability. From budget-friendly Low Price options to the sophisticated Medium Grade line and the luxurious Custom Quality cabinets, each piece is crafted with precision and timeless design. Learn how these cabinets, made from top-tier materials and meticulous craftsmanship, not only enhance your home entertainment experience but also add a touch of historical charm. Join us as we explore the 1961 line and celebrate the art of creating cozy, stylish gathering spaces for every budget. Don’t forget to like and share if you enjoyed learning about this iconic brand! #CurtisMathes #HomeEntertainment #QualityFurniture #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor
Transcript


About the Photo Above: This Curtis Mathes Holiday Poster from 1961 is a fantastic blend of mid-century modern design and festive nostalgiaMore about the photo above: The holiday elements, including the beautifully decorated Christmas tree and Santa Claus imagery, set a warm and festive tone, while the formal attire of the people reinforces the brand's upscale appeal. The tagline, “Elegance in home entertainment,” fits well with the design, which emphasizes not only the technical innovations but also the aesthetic appeal of Curtis Mathes products. There is also a strong sense of nostalgia, with the black-and-white television broadcasts and images of celebrities or entertainment figures of the time, grounding this poster in a particular cultural moment. The overall presentation showcases how Curtis Mathes positioned their products as both high-end and an essential part of the American household during the holiday season. It's a delightful piece of advertising history, evoking a sense of tradition, family, and quality, which were key selling points for Curtis Mathes in the 1960s. The inclusion of promotional slogans like "Serving American Homes for 62 Years" further underscores the brand’s long-standing presence and trust within the market.

The Beautiful World of Curtis Mathes in the Mid-century Days was the Golden Era for American Made Electronics
This Curtis Mathes advertisement above is from the mid to late 1960s is a fantastic example of how they marketed their televisions as luxury items, emphasizing elegance and quality. The ad highlights the Mediterranean-styled television.


Photo above is Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer on the late 1970s early 1980s Curtis Mathes model color console H2508ME. This is a Late 1970s early 1980s Curtis Mathes model color console H2508ME, Curtis Mathes Chassis C85-1, RCA Picture Tube 25VGTP22,1975-1983. I pulled this lovely console out of old shed, I had to remove a huge mouse nest out of the back, but all the wires were in-tacked which was a miracle. The sound fired up quick, the picture tube took a while to come back to life, first there was a flicker of green, then red, and the like magic all the colors came to life. Has great sound and bright colors. speakers on both sides of the console. RCA Picture Tube 25VGTP22, 1975-1983. #rudolphtherednosedreindeer #curtismathes #curtismathesh2508me #holiday #santa
This Curtis Mathes Advertisement, with its Festive Holiday Theme, Captures the Essence of Mid-century Marketing
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More on the photo above: My Vintage Curtis Mathes Site did a fantastic job evoking nostalgia, family warmth, and a touch of formality through the well-dressed models in the image. The Christmas setting not only appeals to consumers' emotions but also subtly reinforces the idea of the television as a central piece of the home during holiday gatherings—a place where family and technology meet. This advertisement probably resonated strongly with buyers who saw the TV as both a functional and ornamental part of their living spaces.
Say hello to two more Vintage Curtis Mathes Site Girls by Glenn Waters. Are they not lovely, their names are Amy and Betty they are sisters. I love the dresses that they made themselves and they are also so very sweet.

Photo Below: A Curtis Mathes Color Console was the perfect gift back in 1971, sure to make Daddy happy and the family can watch the New Year Eve celebration on their new Aztec Model 52M3675 with its lovely Mediterranean Styling, this advertisement was created by Glenn Waters.

This Curtis Mathes advertisement above featuring the Aztec Model 52M3675 with Mediterranean styling captures a luxurious and festive vibe. The 25” CM Panorama Screen, highlighted as a major feature, would have been cutting-edge for 1971, offering viewers an immersive experience during family gatherings like watching New Year's Eve celebrations.
The design, labeled as Mediterranean, shows how Curtis Mathes TVs were not just about technology, but also about matching the aesthetics of the home, appealing to customers who valued both form and function. The solid wood cabinet has a distinctly ornate and regal look, aligning with the Mediterranean theme, giving it the feel of a high-end piece of furniture that blends with the elegant décor of the time.
Once again, the ad follows the pattern of featuring a well-dressed family in front of a holiday setting, enhancing the emotional appeal of the product. The ad reflects the idea that purchasing a Curtis Mathes television is more than just buying electronics—it's an investment in family entertainment and home refinement.
The mention of advanced features like the Super Bright Black Matrix tube and automatic fine-tuning reiterates Curtis Mathes' focus on technological quality, while the family-centered imagery makes it clear that this TV was meant to enhance the overall holiday and home experience. It was a premium, thoughtful gift for the time, perfect for bringing families together during the festive season.

Say hello to my Vintage Curtis Mathes Site Girls by Glenn Waters. Are they not lovely, their names are Mary and Ruth. The are Showing the 1961 Curtis Mathes Royal Dane Console Model.
Below is the 1961 Royal Dane a best seller that year for the holidays, was a lovely stereo with a Curtis Mathes turntable and stereo FM/AM radio multiplex, a true High-fidelity music center, and it also could come with a television and reel to reel.

Say hello to my new Vintage Curtis Mathes Site Girls by Glenn Waters. Are they not lovely, their names are Mary and Ruth. The are Showing the 1961 Curtis Mathes Royal Dane Console Model.

Photo Above Say hello to my Vintage Curtis Mathes Site Girls by Glenn Waters. Are they not lovely, their names are Sandra and Margo they are sisters. I love the yellow dresses and they are so sweet.
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Angelina and Elena can tell you the 1973 Curtis Mathes Echan 3 Console is a Spanish Design Masterpiece, with a state of the art Curtis Mathes Color Picture tube, Curtis Mathes turntable and eight track player and a deluxe Curtis Mathes Stereo AM/FM Multiplex.

The advertisement above is of the 1973 Curtis Mathes Echan 3 Console as a Spanish design masterpiece, blending aesthetics with high-end technology for home entertainment. Here's what stands out:
Key Features and Design: Spanish Styling of the console itself is highly ornate, featuring intricate wood carvings reminiscent of classical Spanish design. The dark wood and detailed ornamentation contrast with the sleek, modern appliances of the time, presenting the console as both a piece of art and technology.The console itself is highly ornate, featuring intricate wood carvings reminiscent of classical Spanish design. The dark wood and detailed ornamentation contrast with the sleek, modern appliances of the time, presenting the console as both a piece of art and technology.
This style suggests that the console was marketed toward consumers who value elegance and craftsmanship in their home decor, not just functionality. It’s meant to blend into high-end or traditional interiors, likely appealing to affluent buyers
Technological Sophistication:The advertisement emphasizes that this console is equipped with a Curtis Mathes color picture tube, turntable, 8-track player, and a deluxe stereo with AM/FM multiplex. In 1973, this combination of features would have been cutting-edge, showcasing a complete home entertainment system that integrates audio and visual components. The inclusion of multiple entertainment formats (television, record player, 8-track) shows how Curtis Mathes was appealing to a broad audience with a diverse range of media consumption habits. They highlight the versatility and comprehensiveness of the product.
Fashion and Elegance: Angelina and Elena, the two women featured in the ad, are dressed in formal gowns, echoing the theme of elegance and luxury. This visual styling reinforces the message that the Curtis Mathes Echan 3 Console is for refined, fashionable homes. The soft colors of their dresses—one in a turquoise blue and the other in light pink—create a contrast with the darker, earthier tones of the console, adding to the overall balance of modernity and tradition.
Visual Focus on Entertainment: The television screen is showing what appears to be a bullfighting scene, which complements the Spanish design motif of the console itself. This suggests that the product is not only elegant but also culturally attuned, possibly evoking Spanish cultural pride or evoking an exotic, worldly atmosphere for buyers. The use of a color display on the TV is a clear indication of the advancement in technology during this time, as color television was gaining widespread adoption in the early 1970s.
Overall Appeal: This advertisement targets a market of consumers who appreciate elegance in both design and functionality. By showcasing the console as a luxury item, Curtis Mathes positions their products as not just practical but also decorative centerpieces for homes. The emphasis on Spanish styling, paired with high-tech features, suggests that they were catering to a clientele who wanted their entertainment systems to match the sophistication of their living spaces.
The ad succeeds in blending traditional craftsmanship with modern technology, appealing to the era’s trend toward making home appliances stylish as well as functional. It's a well-crafted marketing effort to appeal to an audience that values both luxury and state-of-the-art entertainment experiences.
The Curtis Mathes advertisement below evokes a very classic and elegant mid-century vibe, likely appealing to the upper middle-class or affluent households of that era. The elegant appearance aligns with how Curtis Mathes portrayed their televisions.
