From Seeburg to Stern – A Legacy of Innovation

Victory Glass Connects the Legacy of Seeburg Jukeboxes and Stern Pinball

 

At the Chicago Pinball Expo 2025, a significant conversation took place – one that bridged the past and future of jukebox innovation. Aaron Schmitt and Ed Owens of Victory Glass sat down with Gary Stern, founder of Stern Pinball, to discuss one of the rarest jukeboxes ever made: the 1982 Seeburg VMC (Video Music Center).

This meeting wasn’t just about a rare machine – it was about connecting Seeburg’s legacy to Stern Electronics, a company that had once acquired Seeburg’s assets in the early ‘80s. In many ways, Victory Glass brought the story full circle, reinforcing its role as a steward of jukebox history.

The 1982 Seeburg VMC – A Jukebox Ahead of Its Time

The Seeburg VMC was a bold leap forward in jukebox design, featuring a 19-inch color display that allowed users to select songs by title, genre, or popularity. This was one of the first attempts at merging video technology with jukebox functionality, a concept far ahead of its time.

Despite its groundbreaking features, the Seeburg VMC had a limited production run, making it a rare collector’s piece today – especially in working condition. Seeing one in operation at the Chicago Pinball Expo was a reminder of Seeburg’s innovation and its lasting impact on the jukebox industry.

The Seeburg-Stern Connection and Victory’s Role

While Stern Pinball is best known today for its pinball dominance, its roots trace back to jukebox history. In 1979, Stern Electronics acquired the assets of the Seeburg Corporation, a major shift in the industry at the time. This connection made Gary Stern the perfect person to discuss the VMC’s impact with Victory Glass.

Victory Glass has long been at the forefront of jukebox restoration and preservation, ensuring that classic models like the Wurlitzer 1015 and Seeburg units continue to be appreciated by collectors and enthusiasts alike. Their conversation with Gary Stern at the Pinball Expo wasn’t just about a rare machine – it was about recognizing and celebrating the legacy of jukebox innovation that connects generations of music lovers.

Preserving the Legacy of Jukebox Innovation

The Seeburg VMC may not have been a commercial success, but its ambition paved the way for modern digital jukeboxes. This rare meeting between Victory Glass and Gary Stern serves as a testament to how history, innovation, and passion continue to shape the jukebox industry.

Victory Glass remains dedicated to preserving and promoting these legendary machines, ensuring that the legacy of Seeburg, Stern, and jukebox history lives on for future generations.

For more on Seeburg’s history, check out this 1985 news story on Seeburg jukeboxes: