I have several questions that have come up in relation to San
Francisco's Musee Mecanique.  I'm curious if there is any way to
quantify how many people are left in the world who repair machines
like you can see at the Musee.  Those machines include devices
such as:

 - Working Models (automation figures in cabinets depicting some
scene, usually seedy or morose in nature), and

 - In general, antique coin-operated, entertainment and musical
machines, such as orchestrions.

I'd like to know who the keepers of these machines might be once the
current generation goes away.

Also, the history of this art predates the 19th century.  There were
a lot of guys in 18th century France making some of the above mentioned
mechanical devices and toys.  What is history of this, briefly?

Anyone care to take a stab?  I'm doing research for an article.  The
funny thing is that one thing leads to another and it never stops!

Thanks,
Angela Frucci
Redwood City, CA