My Collection: Thorn Gamma 6
| Manufacturer | Thorn |
| Catalogue Number (model) | Gamma 6 |
| Wattage | 35W |
| Lamp-Type | SOX |
| Gear | Original |
| Ballast | Thorn G53332.4 |
| Ignitor | Thorn G53311 |
| Capacitor | Cambridge Capacitors 6μF |
| Photocell | Zodion SS6 |
| Date Of Manufacture | ~1992 |
| Date On Photocell | ~~/07/2012 |
| Date on Photocell Socket | ~~/03/1992 |
| Date Acquired | 19/07/2025 |
| Restoration Status | Cleaned |
| Collection Number | #175 |
This design is the 1990s version of the Gamma 6, with this particular lantern dating to roughly 1992, going by the cell socket. Much like my 1980s Gamma Six, this one is for 35W SOX lamps, and is integral-geared.
Unlike the 1980s versions however, this one features a much thinner canopy. It would have been painted black originally, but over thirty years of wear has caused most of it to be lost.
A Zodion SS6 photocell, dating to July of 2012, occupies a NEMA socket in the centre of the locking-nut.
The locking nut has a hole drilled in the top to accommodate the NEMA socket; notice the March 1992 date-code on the socket.
There is no visible date on the capacitor, as it appears vastly faded. A combination of moisture and heat-exposure has likely caused this.
An ignitor for a 35W SOX lamp sits just below the capacitor.
The sticker has been damaged by the heat from the ballast, as well as a wasps nest which used to exist in the lantern, and potentially some moisture. Thankfully, the Gamma 6 is a common enough lantern that the identification-sticker isn't an essential component!
The lantern powered up, running a 35W SOX lamp:
The Gamma 6 provided a tender, amber glow to the surrounding inhabitants of the lantern room:
