The Best Music Box

Buying Guide

Music boxes were a high-tech item when they were first introduced in the 18th century, allowing users to listen to automated music. Today’s music boxes don’t work much differently than the first ones, but they’ve become a novelty item that offers nostalgia to some and are a curiosity to others.

Music boxes use a metal cylinder that rotates as a spring or a hand crank moves it. Pins protrude from the cylinder, and those pins strike prongs on a steel comb as the cylinder moves. When the pins make that strike, the prongs vibrate, which causes the tunes that emit from the music box. Short prongs make higher notes, while longer prongs make lower notes.

They may not be as popular as they were when first introduced, but there’s definitely a unique retro feel to them. They make great gifts, especially for younger generations who may not have seen them before. They come in a variety of sizes and shapes with different themes and are made from various materials.

Another thing that can make music boxes highly giftable is how customizable they can be. This starts with the choice of music. You’ll find tunes you’ve never heard, tunes from familiar movies and TV shows and well-known classical songs. If a loved one has a favorite song, a music box that plays that tune could be a big hit.

The look and feel of the music box is another way to customize a gift. Various types of wood are available, and some versions come in bright colors as well as neutrals. You can get one that features a sentimental quote or a poignant message, making them great for expressing your feelings for a loved one.

Of course, you might be buying a music box for yourself. If so, you can find one that fits your own personal style or matches your décor. For a music box that’s designed to store jewelry, check to make sure it’s the right size for all your valuables.

• Music boxes aren’t always designed to store valuables. If you’re looking for one that holds jewelry, you’ll need to check the inner compartment to make sure it’s made for that purpose.
• Note that small music boxes will not be large enough to play entire songs, so you’ll generally get a recognizable chorus or snippet of a song instead.
• Some jewelry boxes have a rotating, “dancing” object inside, such as a ballerina or a unicorn that spins in time with the music. It’s usually attached to a spring so it bends to fit when the lid is closed. This might make a great gift for a young person.
• The inside of the lid of many musical jewelry boxes may have a mirror or an engraved message. These little extras can be a nice touch.
• Musical jewelry boxes rely on a cylinder turning for a melody to play. Some have a hand crank, while others use a spring. With the spring-bound method, you simply crank until you can’t, and the music starts playing. Still others rely on a battery. With those, you simply flip a switch and enjoy.
• If you choose a music box with an engraved message, check the quality of the engraving. Some are hand-carved, while others are printed. The same goes for the design on the exterior of the box. Hand carving can last longer than printed designs.
• Pay close attention to the dimensions of any music box. Small ones can fit in the palm of your hand while larger sizes can hold more valuables and provide useful storage space.
• Some jewelry boxes play music from popular movies or TV series. Check the logos and music carefully to make sure they’re true to the originals.
• Music boxes can be made from a variety of materials. Real, solid wood can weigh them down a little, but if the box is made with quality instruction, it’s likely to hold up longer than one that’s made from manufactured wood or plastic.