The first Grundig dictation device, Stenorette, was launched on the market in 1954. It was one of the first truly portable dictation machines and was known for its compact size and stylish design. Three years later Max Grundig opened what he called the “largest tape recorder factory in the world” in Bayreuth, Germany. Since then dictation devices from Grundig Business Systems have been produced at this location.

vintage dictation machine

Instructions for a dictation machine
Manual for Stenorette dictation machine, West Germany, 1950s.

This adoption item includes a portfolio of advertisements dating from 1913 through 1975, which show different types of dictation technologies over time, uses, and gendered and raced office dynamics in which their manufacturers imagined they would be used.

An advert for a dictation machine from an older publication
1938 Dictaphone Advertisement, Progress Cabinet Dictation Typewriter
An advert for a dictation machine from an older publication
1947 Dictaphone Electronic Dictation Machine Ad, Clock and Dagger Mystery