Vogue

The Stoner Manufacturing Company's 1938 Vogue is a rare and significant addition to the early days of electro-mechanical (EM) pinball history. As a model from this prominent manufacturer, which operated in Aurora, Illinois, from 1933 to 1941, the Vogue represents a moment in the evolution of the game. Its existence fills a gap in our understanding of EM pinball's development during the late 1930s, a period marked by rapid innovation and expansion.

Key gameplay features of the Vogue are not well-documented, but its electro-mechanical design is characteristic of its era. Players would have navigated a typical late-1930s layout to guide a metal ball -- flippers had not yet been invented and would not appear in pinball until 1947 -- relying instead on tilting, timing, and mechanisms that triggered sounds, lights, or other effects via relays and solenoids. The Vogue's unique aspects lie in its relative obscurity and age, making it an intriguing piece for collectors and historians interested in the early days of pinball.

Given the limited information available about the Vogue, there is no notable theme, design, or art to highlight beyond its place within the broader context of Stoner Manufacturing Company's output. Trivia surrounding this machine is scarce due to a lack of documentation; however, its age and manufacturer make it an important artifact for enthusiasts seeking to understand the early history of pinball.