Rittenhouse Fairfax-1972

Rittenhouse Fairfax Door Chime Model C8383 circa 1972

Rittenhouse C8383 Long Chime Doorbell

This second generation Fairfax cover shows distinct Mediterranean style popular in the early 1970s. Like the previous generation Fairfax it features styrene cover, now with a convincing simulated walnut wood grain, and speaker grille cloth. The catalog entry reads:

Fairfax C8383: Walnut Finish & Brass Trim. The warmth of walnut and the richness of an antique gold grille cloth top off long, brushed brass chime tubes. 2 tuneful tones for front entrance 1 clear bite fior rear.

Emerson Electric’s stewardship of Rittenhouse continued through the early1970s. Having acquired Artrolier Lighting in the late 1960s, the parent company folded the Rittenhouse brand into a division within the Artolier Lighting and Sound group. This association was summed up in a 1970s catalog:

With the backing of Emerson, we’ve been able to expand our lines and continue a tradition of innovation and excellence in chimes and sound systems.

The Fairfax C8383 shares many design cues with Mediterranean style stereo and television cabinets popular in the 1970s.