Don't tell my wife, but I bought a 302 today...

[easytiger]

Maybe the 354 is the little-known "lined-with-gold" edition.  I kinda wish somebody here would win it just so we could hear the desciption of the look on the wife's face when it arrives.  Jorge? 

[deedubya3800]

302's in antique stores i have seen are way too high

You're not kidding. But I figured $35 was fair as most 302's in decent working shape seem to go in the $30-to-$40 range including shipping. The opportunity to inspect something hands-on can be worth so much, though.

[McHeath]

You know this little "hobby" of yours is going to get totally out of control.  You start out with just wanting one 500 to finish off the display, or oh a 354 would be kinda cool.  Next thing you know you've got to have a 554, and then one in green, and oh that's a cool red 500, and oh look at that neat ivory 302 and that's interesting, a Red Bar, hmm, okay well maybe I need a Kellogg.....

Just warning you.   

[Kenny C]

hes right i started with that 11-55 i got at goodwill for $1 got the cords and stuf later

[deedubya3800]

I like the word "hobbsession".

[Dennis Markham]

The seller of the thousand dollar Model 354 said that his price was not a typo, but the intended price.  If he get's it, I'm going to have to start listing 354's on eBay!

http://tinyurl.com/332cd3a

[HarrySmith]

You and me both
I have been watching prices as I may sell mine but the last one went for $17.00

[easytiger]

The seller of the thousand dollar Model 354 said that his price was not a typo, but the intended price.  
http://tinyurl.com/332cd3a

I have just one word:  geesh.

[HarrySmith]

Anybody looking for a more reasonably priced 354? Here is one:
http://cgi.ebay.com/Vintage-Art-Deco-Wall-Phone-Telephone-Black-Bakelite-/260664159303?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item3cb0cb6c47

[Dennis Markham]

I notice that the seller has a problem with packing---4 negatives.  FYI to those interested in the 354 Harry posted.

[HarrySmith]

Oops, sorry! I did not look beyond the price! Thanks for the heads up Dennis! I also saw one at $9.99 but did not save it.

[Doug Rose]

Here's a real nice NOS WE 354 at a more conservative investment. Just needs a dial....Doug

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=140452268735&ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT

[wds]

I've always admired the WE 354 - very modern and classic design for a 60+ year old phone.  I purchased one for cheap, and wasn't sure it was worth the $15 I paid for it.  Turned out pretty nice, with no cracks, chips, and only a few scuff marks.  Everything on the inside is dated 5-50, including the handset parts.  I have a dial on the way dated II 50 which I'll probably install.  I prefer the older phones, but I couldn't help but add this one to my 302 phone.   

[HarrySmith]

Another nice job, looks great Dave

[Greg G.]

The seller of the thousand dollar Model 354 said that his price was not a typo, but the intended price.  If he get's it, I'm going to have to start listing 354's on eBay!

http://tinyurl.com/332cd3a

(Sigh), must be an antique dealer.  Come to think of it, I wonder if my local dealer still has that 70s "French phone" he was trying to sell for $158.00.  Maybe I'll take a walk down there.  I need the exercise and some fresh air and an excuse not to do housework.