My Collection: Philips MI50-GO (1)
| Manufacturer | Philips |
| Catalogue Number (model) | MI50-GO*1 |
| Wattage | 26W |
| Lamp-Type | SOX-E |
| Gear | Original |
| Ballast | Philips BSX 355L 16 |
| Ignitor | Philips SX 72 |
| Capacitor | Philips (6.5μF) |
| IP Rating (when new) | IP54 |
| Date Of Manufacture | ~~/03/1985 |
| Date On Photocell Socket | ~~/02/1985 |
| Date On Capacitor | ~~/03/1985 |
| Date Acquired | 14/05/2024 |
| Restoration Status | Cleaned |
| Collection Number | #36 |
The Philips MI50 was the precursor to the MI26. The general shape of the lantern is similar to the Thorn Beta 5, but it has a more-squarish appearance. It's canopy is made from diecast aluminium, with a polycarbonate bowl. The bowl would also be used on the newer Philips MI26. The lantern can come in remote or integral-geared versions. The MI50-OO is the remote-geared version with the MI50-GO being the gear-in-head version. This lantern is the latter, coming into the collection seized to it's concrete bracket. The bracket was also seized to the column, having to be sawn off.
Despite the seized grubscrews, the lantern is in astonishing condition inside.
The paint isn't even darkened or cracked from the lamp's heat. The lamp-support and sticker remain shiny, as does the ceramic lamp-holder.
The only internal damage is the snapped grubscrew, but that can be drilled out; it's more good news from the gear tray!
Some dirt is visible but that will clean up lovely! The Philips SX72 ignitor has a glossy-look to it.
The Philips BSX 355 L 16 ballast is only just starting to show it's age.
The capacitor is a different story... It's yellowed from heat exposure, but a March 1985 date code is still visible.
The lantern was wired up and plugged in. It (unsurprisingly) powered on without a hitch!
