Antique French Telephone Mod. 1910, Year 1935.

Fine antique telephone model 1910, coming from France and made in 1935. The telephone is designed to connect through a switchboard; this is the reason why today it cannot be used to make and receive phone calls though it is in perfect working order. This is quite a decorative and interesting device, fully original from the period and used by the public administration for years. We know this fact thanks to the inscription engraved in the metal plate riveted to the wooden box: PROPRIETÉ DE LETAT (State Property in French). The plate contains more information about the telephone: the year of adjudication (1935), the lot (29) and the model (1910). The silvery-metal casing of the hearing piece connected to the mechanism bears engraved part of this same information in clear capital letters. As well as this piece, the telephone includes a classic handset, a switch hook where this element can be left and a crank to establish connection with the operator. These component parts are made of chrome-plated metal and black bakelite, and remain in quite good condition; the cords also preserve their original fabric covering. The telephones casing is made of solid mahogany wood, beautiful and solid. The wood is protected by the original transparent finish, in good condition even after so many years of use. The corners of the box show lovely dovetail joints, skillfully made and still perfectly stable. The box stands on four small silvery-metal legs; the top plank can be lifted in order to reach the inner mechanism, wonderfully preserved and with all its original elements, component parts and wiring. Its turn-of-the-century look and great condition turn this amazing antique telephone into a piece worthy of the best museum. Measurements: Width: 9.8 in / 25 cm. Height: 6.2 in / 16 cm.