AIWA - AR-888 Radio

Aiwa AR-888V (AR-888 Series) – Vintage Pocket AM Radio – Made in India – Excellent Condition

Offered here is the Aiwa AR-888V, a compact portable AM transistor radio belonging to Aiwa's AR-888 series and manufactured in India. Designed for simple, reliable everyday listening, this charming pocket receiver represents a period when portable transistor radios were an essential companion for news, music, sports, and entertainment.

Compact enough to fit easily into a pocket or travel bag, the AR-888V combines classic analogue tuning with the dependable operation that made Aiwa one of the world's most respected consumer electronics brands.

Features & Specifications

Model: Aiwa AR-888V (AR-888 Series)
Manufacturer: Aiwa
Country of Manufacture: India
Type: Portable AM Transistor Radio

Radio Section

• AM / Medium Wave reception
• Frequency Range: 530 – 1605 kHz
• Analogue tuning system
• Internal ferrite rod antenna
• Built-in loudspeaker

Power Supply

• 3 Volt DC operation
• Powered by 2 × AA batteries

Connections

• Earphone output for private listening

Design & Construction

• Pocket-sized portable design
• Lightweight construction
• Integrated wrist strap
• Large front-mounted loudspeaker
• Easy-to-read tuning scale
• Durable plastic cabinet

Historical Background

The Aiwa AR-888V belongs to a generation of compact transistor radios that became widely popular during the late twentieth century. Before the widespread adoption of mobile phones, internet streaming, and digital audio devices, portable radios provided an affordable and convenient way to stay connected to local news, sports, music, and current affairs.

Aiwa built an international reputation for producing reliable radios, cassette recorders, personal stereos, and hi-fi equipment. Models such as the AR-888V were designed to deliver dependable reception and long battery life in an extremely portable package.

Manufactured in India, this radio reflects a period when international electronics companies increasingly established regional manufacturing facilities to serve local and export markets.

Condition

This Aiwa AR-888V is presented in excellent condition and has been carefully preserved over the years. The cabinet remains remarkably clean, with minimal signs of age or use.

The battery compartment is clean and well-maintained, and the radio retains its attractive original appearance. The original wrist strap is still present, further enhancing its authenticity and collector appeal.

Please examine the photographs carefully as they form part of the description.

Collectable & Practical Value

Vintage transistor radios continue to attract collectors due to their nostalgic appeal, historical significance, and compact design. The Aiwa AR-888V is an excellent example of a practical, everyday radio from a time when portable radio listening played a central role in daily life.

Its excellent condition, compact size, Aiwa heritage, and Indian manufacture make it an appealing addition to collections of vintage radios, portable electronics, and classic consumer technology.

Tested, demonstrated, and featured on the SpaceTime Engineering YouTube channel.

Watch the Aiwa AR-888V in action here:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WgnM3KMjvD4

The video showcases the radio's design, operation, and reception performance, providing prospective collectors and buyers with an opportunity to see this classic portable receiver demonstrated in real-world conditions.

Shipping

Worldwide tracked and insured shipping according to Catawiki guidelines; weight is approximate including packaging.

Seller’s Story

We are a specialised company based in the Netherlands, offering high-quality audio and electronic equipment throughout Europe, generally through Catawiki.