Previous image preload Next image preload
Back to catalog
Lot 5
Rare Letter by Pioneer of Color Television John Baird

BAIRD, JOHN. (1888-1946). Scottish inventor; produced first televised picture of a moving object in 1926 and developed color television in 1928. TLS. (“J. L. Baird”). ½p. 4to. London, January 27, 1936. On Baird’s personal stationery to James W.A. Inglet.

“In reply to your letter of the 25th inst. I am glad that March 2nd will suit you and will have great pleasure in being present at the Dinner…”

Baird was an inventor with many interests who, early in his career, dabbled in such diverse areas as synthetic diamonds, a glass razor, pneumatic shoes, thermal “undersocks,” fiber optics, radar, and video recording. His major scientific contribution was his pioneering television transmission in 1925. His demonstration was repeated for the Royal Society the following year and, in 1927, he transmitted the first long-distance television images between London and Glasgow. In 1928, he again made television history by transmitting television’s first color images. Baird International Television, Ltd. was formed in 1928 to explore the commercial applications of his innovations, and, beginning in 1929, the BBC transmitted its programs using one of Baird’s systems. His commercial success was hindered by the loss by fire of his Crystal Palace laboratory in 1936, and, in 1937, the BBC switched its transmissions to the competing Marconi system. Nonetheless, Baird continued to make important innovations in television broadcasting up until his death nearly a decade later.

Folded with scattered staining and two file holes in the left margin. In very good condition with one letter fold passing through Baird’s darkly penned signature. Rare.

Accepted Forms of Payment:

American Express, Discover, MasterCard, Money Order / Cashiers Check, Paypal, Personal Check, Visa, Wire Transfer

Shipping

All items are shipped via FedEx with a signature required at the buyers' expense unless other arrangements are made. Please note that FedEx does not deliver to PO Boxes and requires a valid phone number. Please allow 2-3 weeks for shipping.

by Lion Heart Autographs
October 27, 2021 1:00 PM EDT
330 E. 38th St.
42-I
New York, NY, US 10016

Lion Heart Autographs

You agree to pay a buyer's premium of up to 15% and any applicable taxes and shipping.

View full terms and conditions

Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $199 $25
$200 $999 $50
$1,000 $4,999 $100
$5,000 $9,999 $250
$10,000 $19,999 $500
$20,000 + $1,000