For the prospective collector of soda machines, the sheer number of models available can make choosing the one that's just right for you a daunting task. This article is a discussion of these guidelines. Quikold produced embossed chests like this Nesbitt's Standard for several of the smaller soft drink companies. Chest Coolers and Uprights Chest coolers were produced from the late 1920's through the late 1950's, with cooling system design evolving from ice to cooled water to cooled air. Three types of chest coolers were produced.
Ice chests rely solely on ice to cool the machine's contents.
Water cooled chests have a refrigeration unit which cools the water in which the bottles rest. Some water cooled chests have a small motor which circulates the cold water to provide more efficient cooling. Still other chests have a refrigeration unit which cools the air inside the chest. Some air cooled chests have fans to circulate the cold air. Instead, the thirsty customer was responsible for paying the clerk at the counter.