My Collection: Philips XGS104 (2)

The Philips XGS104 is the longer version of the XGS103. This is so it can accommodate the longer 55W SOX or 36W SOX-E lamps. This was the second XGS104 to enter the collection, although both were received on the same day! Thank you to AgentHalogen_87 for giving me this lantern from his collection. Being dated to March 2001, this was one of the last XGS104s made.

These were very common lanterns throughout the UK. This one is side-entry only, but post-top versions (such as my other XGS104) were available.

Placing it next to the Philips XGS103, the size difference becomes clear.

Unlike the XGS103 however, the bowl is held on by two clips at the side of the lantern. Once unclipped, the bowl can be maneuvered to remove it entirely.

Inside, the lantern is incredibly clean! This picture was taken during the process of bypassing the cell-socket, hence the floating wires.

The Philips Electronic SOX (EXC 055 S/50) ballast:

I attempted to power on the lantern to no avail. I eventually found the fault; a broken live-out wire from the photocell socket. Presumably, it broke when transporting the lantern home, or when I opened the lantern for the first time. I didn't initially spot it, as it was inside of a heat-protective tube. I bypassed the cell-socket shortly after, seen two images above.

With that minor-inconvenience sorted, the lantern powered on without protest.