{"product_id":"zenith-royal-500-transistor-radio-c-1950s-gold-mesh-grille-portable","title":"Zenith Royal 500 Transistor Radio c.1950s Gold Mesh Grille Portable","description":"\u003cp\u003eAnnihilate the landfill, bring back the golden age of pocket-sized broadcasts\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Zenith Royal 500 — the radio that put transistors in shirt pockets and started a revolution. This is a mid-1950s example in that distinctive gold-tone case with the signature mesh speaker grille and flip-up carrying handle. She's showing her age honestly: visible patina and some oxidation on the gold finish, surface wear consistent with a well-loved daily companion. The original tuning wheels and controls are intact. Untested for function — sold as a display piece or restoration project.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe D'Beetle Difference • American Transistor Radio Pioneer: Zenith's Royal 500 series launched in 1955 as one of the first American-made transistor radios. This is genuine Chicago engineering from the golden age of portable electronics.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e• Compact Pocket-Friendly Design: Measures approximately 4.5 inches tall by 3 inches wide. Features the iconic flip-up brass-tone handle and original thumb-wheel tuning controls.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e• Display-Ready Patina: Gold mesh grille shows honest oxidation and wear. All badges, controls, and handle intact. Perfect for collectors or mid-century vignettes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"D'Beetle Estate Sales","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48450711617725,"sku":null,"price":52.16,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0733\/7282\/7837\/files\/Photoroom_20260915_132829.jpg?v=1789493611","url":"https:\/\/dbeetles.com\/products\/zenith-royal-500-transistor-radio-c-1950s-gold-mesh-grille-portable","provider":"D'Beetle | 260 Concord Ave, Cambridge, MA 02138","version":"1.0","type":"link"}