Musical boxes started in the 19th century, developing out of the 17th century snuff boxes.
For much of the 19th century, Switzerland was the home of the musical boxes, as it built on their traditional forte of watchmaking.
By the end of the 19th century, there were manufacturers in other parts of the world including the United States.
The wonderful world of ballerina boxes is a fascination for the little girl in every person.
The fun for adults in collecting these musical boxes is remembering the joy of childhood.
The music that accompanies the ballerina can be important.
The most popular tunes are Swan Lake and Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy.
Extra drawers are not in the early models but can add the value if you are collecting modern boxes for the future.
Do you collect at the top? Reuge is one of the most famous music box makers that has been operating since 1865 in Sainte-Croix, Switzerland and is still operating today.
It has a wide range of music boxes.
There are traditional cylinder music boxes which start small single tune 18 note movements or which go to 72 note three tune movement.
There are other manufacturers of traditional cylinder boxes most often have a wooden box that speaks of yesteryear.
Alternatively, you can go for modern boxes.
There are an incredible range that can be bought new with the intention of keeping for the future or second hand.
Second hand ones can be found at garage sales, junk shops and on the web.
The key is to make sure they are in good condition and are still working.
If you have access to a handyman for free, you may selectively pick out cheap ones that can be fixed.
Before long you will have an enjoy hobby that will last a lifetime.