Page Four
Sony FDM 330S Color Watchman/Monitor
1989
Introduced August 27, 1989, this innovative modular TV/Monitor four piece system. Module one: Active matrix TFT color 2.7 inch monitor with 86,400 pixels, built in back light. Module two: PLL Synthesizer TV Tuner with electronic tuning, channel memory and on screen display. Module three: Active Speaker. Module Four: Battery case which uses 4 standard AA batteries or optional rechargeable battery.
Take apart TV with a speaker that slides out of it’s cabinet! It was designed to be used additionally as a camcorder monitor. One can take it out in the field with just the monitor and battery case, just un-snap the tuner and speaker module or use it as a TV without the speaker, just ear phone. It has a detachable adjustable stand and camcorder mount. You can see the four individual modules in the photo. Beautiful high quality design, beveled glass display screen, gold plated inter connections. Compact, measuring overall all four modules, 3 3/16″ w x 3″ h x 3 15/16″ d. Very hard to find this model with optional active speaker module.
This is my favorite micro television and functions well today. Click on images below for full view and download 1600×1200 wallpaper for your computer.
Sony FDM 330 Color Watchman/Monitor photographed April 28, 2010
Sony FDM 330S photographed October 25, 2011
Screen shots taken from Sony FDM 330S television/monitor, on Monday, May 3, 2010. Pre-recorded telecasts for the mountain time zone in United States between 10:00 AM and 11:30 AM, the top image capture from the “View”, second image capture from the “Today Show”, third capture from local news station. Actual size images, the Sony TV/Monitor has a 2.7 inch active matrix TFT panel. Scaled to be actual size on a 1600×1200 resolution monitor. If viewed on a 1024×768 monitor, the screen shots will be about 3.7 inches. Collectors have reported that this TV renders poor images, I post these images to dispel that notion.
Sony FDM 330S Screen Shots photographed May 3, 2010
Saba TV Journey 2
1989
German 3.3 inch TFT LCD color television with 82,368 pixels. Made for the European market, this model receives the PAL broadcasting system. I have verified operation, but will not be able to post screen shots until I find a Pal to NTSC converter. The set has touch sensitive, electronic on screen tuning by way of a scrolling indicator traversing the screen. The set has an antenna, audio/video, earphone and 9.5 volt power inputs. Unit operates on 6 standard AA batteries with convenient easel type stand recessed in the rear of cabinet and the television measures 4 3/16″ W x 3 3/4″ H x 2 1/8″ D. Very nice looking set, I found this television in Portugal, April, 2013 and it looks unused and in mint condition.
Saba TV Journey 2 photographed April 8, 2013
Saba TV Journey 2 photographed April 8, 2013
Posted October 31, 2022
1989
Epson ET-709
This is the Japanese market version of the above Saba TV Journey 2. Nearly identical with a few cosmetic differences, channel layout, thinner at 1 3/4 inches and all inputs are on the right side of the cabinet. This set has a tripod socket enabling it to be used as a monitor atop a video camera. Stay tuned for verification of operation via the A/V input. Update, November 11, 2022, one of the best performing vintage TFT LCD sets in my collection.
Sony FDL 310 Color Watchman
1989/1990
Several news articles stated this model as well as the FDL 320 were introduced in the U.S. as early as 1988, while others state 1990. It has a 2.7 active matrix TFT panel, 86,400 pixels. Unfortunately the color quality is not on par with similar competitor models and this model is subject to premature back light failure. Attractive design with metal face, chrome base, plastic protective display screen, antenna is concealed within the case. Measures 6 1/8″ h x 3 5/16″ w x 1 1/8″ d. Supplied with hand strap and soft case and uses 4 standard AA batteries.
I purchased this set new in 1990 and it functions normally today. I had to replace the back light tube.
Sony FDL 310 Color Watchman photographed April 30, 2010
Sony FDL 310 Screen shots scaled to be actual size on a 1600 x 1200 monitor. If viewed on a 1024 x 768 monitor, will be over sized.
Sony FDL 310 Screen Shots photographed July 12, 2010
Sony Color Watchman FDL 320
1989/1990
Same description as the Sony FDL 310, above. Additionally it added an AM/FM stereo tuner and thankfully a color saturation adjustment which the 310 lacked. Beautiful styling on this one with black and chrome case and machined metal Sony logo as used in their high end equipment. The case measurements are identical to the 310. I purchased this set May, 2010, it appears to be in mint condition with original red dot sticker and functions well. So nice looking, I had to post two photos.
Sony Color Watchman FDL 320 photographed May, 2010
Sony Color Watchman FDL 320 photographed May, 2010
Casio TV 8500
1989
A nice looking color television introduced in 1989, with generous 3.9 inch passive LCD display. This hard to find television features electronic tuning with on screen display which occupies the right 1/8th inch of display. The set has up and down tuning with bright and tint controls. Audio/video, external antenna and earphone inputs. The set operates on 6 AA size batteries or external 9 volt power supply. Convenient easel type viewing stand recessed into the rear of the television. Very compact cabinet for a viewing screen of this size but unfortunately displays the low quality images typical of passive displays, being low contrast, lack of detail and low color saturation. The television measures 4 5/16 ” W x 4 1/8 ” H x 1 7/8 ” D and average in build quality.
Found this television July, 2011 in very good condition.
Posted March 14, 2023
1989
Sharp Crystaltron 4E-JD1
An early Crystaltron premium active matrix TFT LCD color television with 4 inch filtered high contrast display. All metal case construction coveys quality with onscreen display of basic functions including channel call and preset channel memory functions. A fold out stand doubles as a carrying handle. Inputs for antenna, A/V, remote control, earphone and DC 12 volt power. A docking case holds 8 double A (AA) batteries. Rotary color and hue controls in the base of the set, along with a tripod socket for monitor use complete the package. Measures 5.8W X 4.5H X 1.5D in inches.
The set displays very nice images as shown below.
Posted March 3, 2023
1990
Casio TV- 500
A cute little set, from Casio’s inexhaustible line of micro televisions. This tiny one feels toy-like with its two inch passive LCD display and miniature cabinet measuring only 3.6W X 2.75H X 1.75D in inches. Push button up/down channel tuning, volume, brightness, hue, antenna, A/V, earphone, and DC 6 volt power inputs. Four double A (AA) batteries manage to fit in this compact set. A fold out easel stand completes the package.
1990
Philips 3LC2050/05G
Introduced in 1990, an excellent premium active matrix color LCD with three inch panel. It has a AM/FM stereo tuner with audio/video and antenna inputs, electronic tuning with memory presets and on screen digital display. It has two illuminated status indicators and runs on six standard AA batteries or AC. It has a built in charging circuit and supplied with a soft case. Glass display screen with brushed metal surfaces, a beautiful, detailed set. Measures 6 7/16″ L x 4″ W x 1 7/16″ D. Very nice fold down screen for travel.
Thought I was purchasing a PAL UHF only model from the UK, but I am able to receive low power analogue NTSC signals from UHF stations still operating in my area, so this is a multi standard model. Strong FM stereo signals as well.
Although very elegant, I passed this one up originally because it was priced at $550.00 ! I was lucky to find this one on EBAY in July, 2010 at a very reasonable price.
Philips 3LC2050/05G photographed July 10, 2010
Click image below for full view 1600 wallpaper download.
Philips 3LC2050/05G photographed July 10, 2010
Magnavox CK 1050
1990
This model is identical to the above Philips 3LC2050/05G in every respect, but caries the Magnavox label. The television was manufactured by Philips Consumer Electronics Company, dated January, 1992. This time, the set has American NTSC analog tuners and we are able to receive television and radio transmissions. It is working very well with one exception. I can’t get the scanning tuner to lock on Channel 3 which is the dedicated channel for my digital converter box. It is locking on a preset channel 4 and we can see the telecast but with snow. The set was designed to scan over the air analog signals and there is no manual override as far as I know. There is a search button up and down, but it won’t lock in on channel 3. I haven’t solved the problem at this time. The FM stereo tuner is very sensitive and pulls in many stations my other devices do not receive. The television has the rubberized Nexel coating and feels good in the hand. We found this set June 3, 2015. Update, November 16, 2022: We used the A/V input on the set and my digital converter box has an A/V output. See the screenshot below.
Tap or click on images for full view.
Magnavox CK 1050 LCD Color TV photographed June 4, 2015
Magnavox CK 1050 LCD Color TV photographed June 4, 2015
Magnavox CK 1050 LCD Color TV photographed June 4, 2015
Posted March 2, 2023
1990
Philips LC 3LC300
Yet another version of the premium designed Philips brand TFT LCD color televisions, manufactured by Japan Marantz LTD and recipient of the 1990 Good Design Award. This example advertises the French auto maker Peugeot prominently on the outside cabinet. ( Perhaps you may have found one in the glove box of your new Peugeot, 🙂 . ) Unique space saving screen pivots up and slides forward when viewing the 3 inch 89500 pixel color panel. A pleasure to hold in hand when closed, an elegant professional presentation when opened, with a full compliment of controls and inputs as shown in the below photos. Additionally the set displays on screen battery strength along with 69 channel memory presets. Tripod socket for monitor use and powers up with an external 9 volt DC power supply or 6 rechargeable double A (AA) batteries. The set measures 4.5W X 3.85H X 2D in inches when closed.
Noteworthy, Philips retired the rubberized cabinet coating appearing on earlier models reportedly because the coating may break down into a gummy surface over time. My Philip sets have not suffered from this defect. I have not verified operation, stay tuned.
Posted March 12, 2023
1990
Toshiba LZ-401D
An advanced for the time, color LCD television with 4 inch,TFT active matrix display. Features abound with on screen tuning, channel call, volume, brightness, color, hue, intro search, and channel presets. Add wired remote control and a docking, bizarre looking battery cylinder. With 211200 pixels, this set has the highest pixel count to this date and on this timeline website. Antenna, A/V, remote, earphone and DC 12 volt external power inputs. Also powered by vehicle 12 volt or 4 double A (AA) rechargeable batteries. Measures 6H X 4.8W X 2D at thickest point in inches.
The entire affair with accessories stores in a supplied travel case.
Sony FD 250 Watchman
1990
An interesting design introduced in 1990, a nice 2.7 inch black and white “flat” CRT Watchman TV. No effort was made to reduce the slimness of this model, the set is a bit chunky. The set has no user control to adjust contrast or brightness, and the antenna input was also eliminated. It dose however have audio/video and ear phone inputs. This TV has a new non-slip surface which in my opinion, looks better and will not scuff like the previous rubberized surfaces on early models. It also has a neck strap with a plastic insert which acts as a stand for the television. The set runs on 4 standard AA batteries or external 6 volt power adapter. The battery cover is hinged in the rear and the speaker produces good sound quality, much better then usual. The tuner is very sensitive, bringing in distant, weak analogue UHF signals still operating in my area. The image is virtually “snow” free, using the built in monopole antenna, a first for all the sets in my collection. The set measures 7″ H x 4 1/8″ at widest point x 1 15/16″ D. This is the first Watchman TV in my collection that was not made in Japan, but rather in Taiwan, manufactured January, 1990.
I acquired this television November 4, 2010 and is in excellent working condition. Because of the set’s unique styling, I have added it to the collection. Click on second photo below for full view and 1600×1200 wallpaper download.
Sony FD 250 Watchman photographed November 5, 2010
Sony FD 250 Watchman photographed November 5, 2010
Posted June 26, 2023
1990
Seiko LVD 503
Cool factor Seiko LVD 503 alarm color LCD television with 3.4 inch display. Very rare set, seldom seen, abounds with features but unfortunately uses a passive display. Programmable on screen display of channels, color settings, volume, and time keeping functions with alarm, time call and sleep buttons. The stand in the photos can be removed which reveals the cell button battery storage for clock and alarm memory’s, as well as a tripod socket. The back panels allows inputs for external antenna, A/V, earphone and DC 9.5 V power supply. This set was designed for bedside use and has no internal battery storage except the cell button. Rotary color, tint and brightness controls complete the package. The circular “prismatic” external viewing screen together with the 5 inch diameter cabinet is the cool factor. The cabinet is 2.7 inches deep and was also available in white. Well designed and desirable for collectors despite the passive display.
Posted December 23, 2022
1991
Panasonic TH-3PC2
A nice set with a 3 inch TFT LCD COLOR display, part of the Panasonic Pana Crystal series. It’s a Japanese market model, but we were able to display images using the A/V input. This compact, chunky box television is configured to operate as a color monitor with tripod or camcorder screw socket, but it also receives VHF/UHF television signals with on screen display electronic tuning. The electronic volume control displays on screen. A clever hinged stand folds flat recessed into the base of the unit. A telescoping rod antenna, built in speaker, color, hue, antenna, earphone inputs, brightness and power switch completes the system. Although all plastic construction externally, the well designed set conveys the impression of high quality with flutes and gloss inserts. Operates with an external 9.5 volt power supply or 6 double A (AA) batteries. Measures 3.75 inches wide X 3.85 inches high X 1.95 inches deep.
1991
Sharp C-315S Color TFT LCD
I found this rare Sharp television September, 2011 purchased in Germany. To the best of my knowledge, this model is a European/UK PAL version and never imported to the United States. High quality design, thin film transistor active matrix 3 inch color display with 20 channel presets and on screen display. Built in back light which is switched off when the display is placed in the open position, allowing ambient light to illuminate the display, saving battery power. Additionally, a clever on screen display automatically illuminates when the back light tube is about to expire advising the remaining time before failure. Convenient front panel switches with secondary controls at the top of set. The television has audio/video, external antenna, earphone and external 9 volt power supply inputs. The television operates on 6 standard AA batteries and measures 5 1/2″ W x 3 3/8″ H x 1 11/16″ D. Since this is a PAL standard television I cannot display a color screen shot at this time. In order to do so, I need a PAL to NTSC converter. I can confirm operation, but this set only displays monochrome images from an NTSC source. I also have the external power supply with European plug.
Click on first image for full view.
Sharp C-315S photographed September 14, 2011
Sharp C-315S open photographed September 15, 2011
Posted August 15, 2023
1991
Sony FDL-K411
Very professional looking Sony FDL-K411 LCD color television (one of my favorites) with TFT 105600 pixel 4 inch display and all the bells and whistles including wireless remote control with IR sensor. Fully programmable memory all electronic on screen tuning with digital alarm clock screen display, snooze button and standby. A first, multiplex stereo sound from a micro television! Set it up with mini Sony speakers, compact DVD player and you have a mini Profeel system. Another first, a ratchet, multi-angle kick stand for convenient viewing. The set can be used as a monitor with tripod screw socket and has both A/V in and out. Color, tint and brightness controls with external antenna and earphone inputs. Powered by 6 double A (AA) batteries, auto or DC 6 volt power brick. The set measures 5.7 W x 4.4 H x 1.9 D in inches without battery pack. Well done Sony!
1992
Citizen P 630 Color TV/Monitor
Not often seen, this Citizen P 630, introduced in 1992, is a elegant, slim television with concealed rod antenna and non-slip rubberized cabinet. A color passive LCD television with 2.9 inch display (actual size is 2.75 inch) TM type LCD with 94,608 pixels. Automatic direct tuning with 30 channel preset memory and on screen channel/volume display/channel call. Citizen describes their display: “Newly developed CSM (Citizen Super Matrix) system that significantly improves picture quality” The image is better then most passive displays in my collection, but not nearly the equal to a TFT active matrix display. Audio/video and external antenna inputs, adjustable color, tint, brightness controls and detachable adjustable stand. This television uses 5 standard AA batteries or AC power adapter or car power adapter and measures 5 15/16″ H x 3 7/8″ W x 15/16″ D.
I fond this television June, 2011 in brand new, unused condition in original box, with travel soft case and all paper work. Inserted 5 AA batteries, connected a digital converter box and after presetting the tuner to channel 3 (the converter output) the TV powered up and displayed a good quality image for passive display technology. See the screen shot below, shown actual size.
Citizen P 630 Color TV/Monitor photographed June 16, 2011
Citizen P 630 Color TV/Monitor photographed June 16, 2011
Citizen P 630 Screen Shot photographed June 15, 2011
1992
Casio Personal Vision CV-1
We found this very rare set April 19, 2019. Only marketed in Japan this model was introduced July, 1992. Claimed to be the world’s smallest color television, indeed it is, at 3 5/16” H x 2 3/8” W x 15/16” D. The postage stamp size TFT LCD display measures 1 1/4”. The set uses three sources of power by way of three detachable modules. The first is a rechargeable nicad battery, the second module holds 5 triple A (AAA) batteries and the third is a 6 volt AC power module. All three are interchangeable which attach and detach from the television module. This television omits an internal speaker and an external antenna. The supplied plug in earphone with it’s cord are used to receive signals, much like the Seiko TV Watch T-001 reviewed on the Vintage Micro TV page. We need to verify operation and screenshots will follow soon. The last photo shows the triple A battery module and the Nicad battery attached to it’s charger which plugs in a wall outlet. Since this battery is a Japanese specification, it requires 100 volts to charge and damage could result if plugged in to our domestic 125 volt supply.
We verified partial operation. The set powers up and scans for an active channel. Since the antenna input served as the signal input, we connected a digital converter box set to channel 3. Because the Japanese frequency tuner is different, we were unable to receive a signal. We did see a brief image but it would not lock, so we were unable to photograph. We will try later with a wireless demodulator.
Next up, Citizen T530-1A LCD Color Television/AM/FM Radio
1992
Citizen T530-1A
UPDATE, MAY 8, 2019
One more set to remove from my bucket list is this Citizen T530 which is rarely seen in the United States. This model conforms to North American NTSC frequency standards, so we were able to hook up to a digital converter box to test it. This set tries to look and feel premium, but falls short cosmetically and in color image quality. The set adopts the foldable design of our Philips and Magnavox televisions listed above, in this time line website. Unlike the premium active matrix TFT displays, this set uses a passive matrix display with 83400 pixel density on its 2.75 inch display. The images suffer in quality as a result, but this model presents the viewer with one of the best, if not the best passive matrix color display. Features: all electronic on display tuning with channel call. This model adds AM/FM radio with built in monopole antenna. An external antenna can be used with the provided input. The internal speaker provides robust sound, much better than average for these vintage LCD televisions. The unit is powered by 5 AA batteries, or external power of 6.5 volts. Additionally, you can connect the set using the A/V input. The set measures 7” W x 3.75” H x 1.5” D. All in all, this set is unusual and very collectible. Given this set’s display is passive, it still offers good image quality. See the screenshots below and they are twice actual size.
UPDATE, APRIL 30, 2021.
1992
Toshiba LX-410 Multi Standard LCD TV. “Multitop.”
Found this very rare 4 inch, active matrix, TFT color television from Toshiba. It was intended for the overseas market or world traveler with it’s multi standard tuners, NTSC, PAL and SECAM and designed in laptop style which was popular with premium LCD televisions during this time period. I’m unable to find much information about this receiver, so I can’t give you the pixel count. The supplied AC power supply (12V) did not power up the set and I haven’t yet tried using batteries, requiring 8 AA cells placed in a supplied chamber which docks at the rear of the receiver. It has multiple on screen menus and stores up to 21 television stations in its memory. In addition to the usual inputs, the set has an audio/video input making it more useful since the set receives analog signals only, now long gone. One can still use a digital converter box or RF modulator to receive OTA programming. The set has a sophisticated design revealed when you pop open the display to access the push button control system as shown in the below photos. The TV measures 6 7/8 inches wide, 5 1/4 inches deep, and 2 inches thick when closed. Sorry, that’s all I have at the moment. An update later.
Posted June 20, 2023
1992
Casio TV 7700
Casio presents “Car Television”, a rather bulky 3.0 inch TFT LCD color television, using the NTSC system M/M. We found this set with a multitude of accessories and cable adaptors to configure the set to a vehicle instrument panel, glove box or a headrest. Includes a flexible (plastic) whip antenna with adhesive or permanent mount. Also includes a tripod mount and stand for a bedside table. Powers with DC 9 V power brick, 12 V auto battery or six 1.5 V double A (AA) batteries. The set has electronic channel selection, channel call, antenna, A/V and earphone inputs. The color and tint controls are hidden in the base, out of sight. Fold out easel stand completes the package. The set measures 4.5 W x 3.75 H x 2.7 D in inches. The set is photographed without it’s adjustable stand or the accessories.
Posted July 28, 2023
1992
Epson ET 363R
Here is another mobile LCD color television with a 3-inch display and a diversity video output which uses a selectable FM radio transmitter for audio transmission to your vehicle radio. I see no IR sensor on the set. Additional inputs are external antenna, A/V, earphone and DC 9.5 volt power brick. The set has illuminated channel call, channel selection and volume up/down buttons with on screen displays. Remainder controls are available for power, VHF/UHF, brightness, color and tint. The set can be powered by a rechargeable battery pack attached to the back of the cabinet. Additionally, it can be mounted to your vehicle console with an accessory device via the treaded socket. The set measures 5.25 W x 4.25 H x 2.6 D in inches.
Posted August 14, 2023
1992
Sharp Crystaltron 4E-C2
Premium Sharp Crystaltron 4E-C2 TFT 4 inch color display with 112086 pixels, using the NTSC color system. This set appears to be new in box with no exterior blemishes and well designed construction. Selective FM transmitter for audio playback on your audio system, and video in and out for use as a monitor or camcorder. All electronic on screen color, tint, volume and brightness control by the integrated pushbuttons on the top control panel. Powered by 8 double A (AA) batteries, rechargeable battery pack, vehicle battery or DC 12 V power brick. External antenna input, earphone, easel stand and tripod mount complete the package. The set measures 6.7 inches W x 4.5 H x 1.75 D in inches.
1993
Sony FDL 380 Color Watchman AM/FM Stereo
Introduced in 1993, this set has a three inch active matrix TFT panel with 89,505 pixels. Built in back light, electronic tuning with on screen channel call. AM/FM stereo radio and built in adjustable stand. It uses 6 standard C batteries. Measures 8 1/4″ w x 4 3/8″ h x 2 3/4″ d. weighs 1lb. 9 oz.
Excellent performer with a detailed, sharp image, good sound quality from the built in robust speaker.
Sony FDL 380 Color Watchman AM/FM Stereo photographed May 1, 2010
Sony FDL 380 Screen Shot photographed August 12, 2010
Sony FDL 380 Screen Shot photographed August 12, 2010
Sony FDL 380 Screen Shot photographed August 12, 2010
1993
Sony FDL 3500 Color Watchman AM/FM Stereo Tuner with digital clock/Timer
This model introduced in 1993, with three inch active matrix TFT display, 89,505 pixels with built in back light. It has a AM/FM stereo tuner and digital clock/sleep timer. PLL synthesizer tuner. 12 TV channels, 9 FM stations and 9 AM stations can be stored in memory. Channel numbers can be displayed on the LCD screen. Sleep timer in 30, 60 or 90 minute intervals. AV monitor. Angle-adjustable stand built in. It has a rubberized, non-slip cabinet and uses 6 standard AA batteries. Attractive design, measures 7″ w x 4 3/8″ h x 1 1/2″ d and weighs 1lb 4 oz. Supplied with AC adapter, hand strap, lithium battery and soft case. The image has very high contrast, but some what noisy. This can can be seen in some transitions. The color saturation can not be adjusted and was preset at factory. Operates fine today.
Sony FDL 3500 Color Watchman AM/FM stereo tuner Clock/Timer photographed May 1, 2010
Sony FDL 3500 Screen Shot photographed September 10, 2010