But in spite of the depression and the minimal parts count, the SW-3 was still a well designed and well built quality radio! The SW-3 was not a stripped down model of the predecessor but in fact incorporated many state of the art and leading edge technologies and designs. The result was a superb minimalist radio which was in production from around 1931 through 1945. Thats a wonderfully long time span for a simple depression motivated three tube regenerative receiver.
A depression era shortwave radio should have been plain and boring but in fact the National SW-3 reveals a surprising elegance. Instead of marginal performance, the SW-3 is a strong performer capable of very good performance even today. While the SW-3 cabinet is a simple steel box, National did some things which make this simple radio stand out. Instead of a plain old shiny finish, National put a winkle finish which adds lustere to the cabinet. Instead of plain old knobs, National used extremely attractive "rosette" style knobs. The "oreo cookie" volume control is intriguing and quite uncommon. So in its simplicity, and modesty, the radio becomes elegant. That is the enigma of the SW-3.
I hope you enjoy the close up photo's of this wonderful radio from our recent past. At one time I owned most of the variations of SW-3's including the rare Model III that was made through the mid 1940's. Regards, Scott WA9WFA
| SW-3 Pictures | Some closeup's of the SW-3 exterior including the "Velvet Vernier" dial |
| "Rosette" SW-3 Knob | Some closeup's of the SW-3 controls including the "rosette" knobs |
| SW-3 Chassis Photo's | Some closeup's of the SW-3 chassis with the cabinet completely removed. |
| SW-3 Wanted and For Sale | SW-3 For Sale and Wanted Page |
| SW-3 Coils | SW-3 Coil close up photo's and Identification |
| Model SW-3 Version 1 Pictures | Early model SW-3 Version 1 photos provided by Terry N3GTE |
