In 1900, Pathé Frères introduced their affordable phonograph with a cast-iron body. The design was clearly inspired by Edison’s first Gem model. It’s worth noting that many European manufacturers drew aesthetic and technological inspiration—particularly from the American models of the famous Graphophone Columbia company. Le Gaulois stands out as one of the rare examples directly influenced by Edison’s original device.
Customers could choose Le Gaulois in one of four colors: red, green, black, or gray.
Although marketed as a family phonograph, some units were occasionally supplied with a rare crystal horn, which significantly enhanced sound quality.