Antique Telegraph Relay.1890s

This curious device is an antique telegraphic relay Kapsch & Söhne. It is a lever key designed as a part of a telegraph unit, made in the late 19th century and in very good condition. The relay preserves all its original component parts; they are all greatly preserved in spite of being more than one hundred years old. Relays are electromagnetic devices used to amplify electrical signals in a telegraphic line: with the help of a battery, relays generated stronger sound signals from the weaker signals received from the telegraph line. The relay was invented by Joseph Henry in 1835. The relay that we can see in these images stands on a thick and sturdy mahogany wooden base, in very good condition. The base has milled top edges and keeps the original satin finish with scarcely any scratches or flaws. The relay itself stands on the base: it is composed of cast-iron, chromed-metal and plastic component parts. It mounts an iron base embedded on top of the wooden base and fixed with four screws. Over this base there are two towering iron pieces that flank the rods. The two rods are designed to contain the coils copper wire; these coils are meant to generate electrical current. The chromed-metal screws and parts can be adjusted in order to enhance the relays performance. The iron bears a matt hammered black-enameled finish that increases the devices fine industrial style. Engraved in the iron base we can see a circular logo painted in a bright golden color. This amazing antique relay will stand out in a good collection of telecommunications-related antiques. Measurements: 8.6 in / 20 cm. Depth: 4.3 in / 11 cm.