The Philips museum came up trumps:
the apparatus is an old radio receiver without loudspeaker.
Probably the type number is Philips 2501, Philips 2502, Philips 2514 or Philips 2515 produced in 1927/1928.
I asked if they wanted it for their collection, but they already have several.
Anyone interested in it as a restoration project,? Its yours for the cost of postage or collection. It currently resides in York - England.
