This Crown TR-620 was manufactured in Japan by the Asahi Radio Co. Ltd circa 1960. I know virtually nothing about the Asahi Radio Co. Ltd.
It features an unconventional combination of leather clad cabinet with a large under-painted face. This is the only collectible transistor radio that I can think of that features this unusual combo. The tuning dial resembles the famous Mercedes Benz logo and is delicately colored baby blue, gold and cream. The back of the radio is stamped with the Crown logo and marked ‘Genuine Top Grain Cowhide’.
The cutouts on the leather speaker grill are angled to match the under-painted face which is a nice touch. This is a stylish and very well made radio! It measures 140mm x 80mm (5.5” x 3.1”)
Crown radios were sold in the UK between 1961 and 1970. They were originally distributed by Finex Overseas Ltd of London. In 1966 the Crown Radio Corporation took over distribution and in 1967 they changed their name to Crown Radio Co. Ltd. REF: Radio! Radio! (Third Edition) By Jonathan Hill.
Crown radios were distributed in the USA by Shriro Incorporated of New York.
This Crown TR-620 uses 6 RCA transistors and an NEC diode.
