Classic Rotary Phones Forum

Telephone Talk => Collector's Corner => My Telephone Collection => Topic started by: Kenton K on September 29, 2014, 10:20:44 AM

Title: Confessions of a phone addict: Kenton k's collection gallery
Post by: Kenton K on September 29, 2014, 10:20:44 AM
I thought its sbout time for my virtual phone exhibit. So here goes.

Firstly, I have for show is my 1950 western electric 500 set. It's from October 1950 and it's all matching dates, even the cords. It's got the clear bezel and small operator font. This set me back s total of $30,
Title: Re: Confessions of a phone addict: Kenton k's collection gallery
Post by: Dan/Panther on September 29, 2014, 12:17:23 PM
Wow nice find. I collect Black 500 sets from the 50's. With October date. I was born in October. October 1950 is the only one missing from my set of 10.
D/P
Title: Re: Confessions of a phone addict: Kenton k's collection gallery
Post by: Dan/Panther on September 29, 2014, 12:18:27 PM
Where did you find it ?
D/P
Title: Re: Confessions of a phone addict: Kenton k's collection gallery
Post by: WEBellSystemChristian on September 29, 2014, 01:02:55 PM
Quote from: Dan/Panther on September 29, 2014, 12:18:27 PM
Where did you find it ?
D/P

Topic here:

http://www.classicrotaryphones.com/forum/index.php?topic=12717.msg133665;boardseen#new
Title: Re: Confessions of a phone addict: Kenton k's collection gallery
Post by: Kenton K on September 30, 2014, 02:09:49 AM
Hi everyone,

Next up are two nice 500 sets. One is a 1955 Rose Beige 500 set and the other is a 1957 Ivory. They both have the long 25' line cord, which is neat.

For anyone curious, these were both acquired in a teletrainer lot on the bay. That is why both phone numbers are the same. Also, because they were kept in the teletrainer case for most of their lives, they have both have very minimal fading. The only bad thing about these phones is that they got lost in USPS and it took over 1 month to arrive. Nightmare material!

-Ken

Title: Re: Confessions of a phone addict: Kenton k's collection gallery
Post by: WEBellSystemChristian on September 30, 2014, 10:25:28 AM
This is the stuff Envy is made of! ;)
Title: Re: Confessions of a phone addict: Kenton k's collection gallery
Post by: Kenton K on September 30, 2014, 10:34:55 AM
Thanks, I will say, you've got some spectacular phones yourself. Do you have your own gallery, Christian?

Ken
Title: Re: Confessions of a phone addict: Kenton k's collection gallery
Post by: WEBellSystemChristian on September 30, 2014, 10:52:18 AM
Quote from: Kenton K on September 30, 2014, 10:34:55 AM
Thanks, I will say, you've got some spectacular phones yourself. Do you have your own gallery, Christian?

Ken
Yes, I do have one, but it hasn't been updated in a long time! I have at least three times more phones on display now!

http://www.classicrotaryphones.com/forum/index.php?topic=11072.0
Title: Re: Confessions of a phone addict: Kenton k's collection gallery
Post by: Russ Kirk on September 30, 2014, 11:00:21 AM
Nice phones Ken!

Depending on how many phones you have this may become very long thread with many replies.
Title: Re: Confessions of a phone addict: Kenton k's collection gallery
Post by: WesternElectricBen on September 30, 2014, 05:03:01 PM
Very, very nice!!

Christian, feel free to update your post.

Ben
Title: Re: Confessions of a phone addict: Kenton k's collection gallery
Post by: Kenton K on September 30, 2014, 07:00:43 PM
Thanks,

Here are the last of my soft plastic 500 sets.

One is a faded light gray, complete, but slightly faded. I need to give it a nice clorox bath.

The other one is a soft red 501. Its dates are all over the place. The base is from 1952, handset from 1956, and case from 1958. I really love the fat handset cord. Also, it's actually missing the tube, so I am looking for one.

-Kenton
Title: Re: Confessions of a phone addict: Kenton k's collection gallery
Post by: Kenton K on November 12, 2014, 08:40:50 PM
Hello! An update,

Here is the rest of the 'new' collection.
None are soft plastic, the white and pink are both around 1960.
The yellow And Aqua are both new 70s.
I also own a beige 500, but its modular.

A neighbor gave me the 1500 in the center. I thought it just a modern 2500 set when he described it as a "pushbutton". I was really lucky!

-Kenton
Title: Re: Confessions of a phone addict: Kenton k's collection gallery
Post by: WEBellSystemChristian on November 12, 2014, 11:16:06 PM
Wow, what a great collection so far! I have had a growing friendliness towards the 1500, partly because of its historical significance!
Title: Re: Confessions of a phone addict: Kenton k's collection gallery
Post by: Kenton K on November 17, 2014, 05:32:56 PM
I burned some more money!!! :-[ $40 plus shipping to be exact :-[

Title: Re: Confessions of a phone addict: Kenton k's collection gallery
Post by: WEBellSystemChristian on November 17, 2014, 06:12:32 PM
Hey, that's a great deal for a 1565, especially in all-original condition! I got mine for $19, but it has non date-matching beige plastics. :-\

Very nice find! I'm jealous!
Title: Re: Confessions of a phone addict: Kenton k's collection gallery
Post by: Kenton K on November 17, 2014, 06:53:58 PM
Awesome find yourself! Where did you get it from?

KK
Title: Re: Confessions of a phone addict: Kenton k's collection gallery
Post by: WEBellSystemChristian on November 17, 2014, 07:34:22 PM
Aw, thanks! I bought it on ebay (more expensive than I remember; $24), because nobody else seemed to notice it. It had been relisted several times for months, so I decided to pounce on it! The chassis is dated 2-64, which seems pretty early for a 10 button set! I replaced the handset cord with a hardwired one, although I kept the modular handset on (it really looks less obvious than it seems like it would!). It's been almost 2 months since I got it, but I should finish it up so it looks nice on display! I plan on filling the # and * holes on the faceplate and paint it dark grey, like it would have been when it was built.

What is the base on your 1565 dated?

http://www.classicrotaryphones.com/forum/index.php?topic=12685.msg133228#msg133228
Title: Re: Confessions of a phone addict: Kenton k's collection gallery
Post by: Kenton K on November 18, 2014, 03:17:59 AM
I'm not sure what the original date is as it is covered by a 1975 repo sticker.

On yours, how do you plan on filling the holes?

Kk
Title: Re: Confessions of a phone addict: Kenton k's collection gallery
Post by: poplar1 on November 18, 2014, 08:48:42 AM
Quote from: Kenton K on November 18, 2014, 03:17:59 AM
I'm not sure what the original date is as it is covered by a 1975 repo sticker.

Date on side of network, and probably the dates on ringer and dial, should help determine the date of original manufacture.
Title: Re: Confessions of a phone addict: Kenton k's collection gallery
Post by: WEBellSystemChristian on November 18, 2014, 09:33:44 AM
Quote from: Kenton K on November 18, 2014, 03:17:59 AM

On yours, how do you plan on filling the holes?

Kk
Read this thread:
http://www.classicrotaryphones.com/forum/index.php?topic=12635.0
I used a piece of a Lasertag Membership card (same type of material as a credit card)on the inside of the faceplate to create a backing for the filler. I then used body putty to fill in the holes. After that, I sanded the entire faceplate with an electric sander to smoothen the putty down, and to make the textured surface smooth. I painted it dark grey with Duplicolor Vinyl Paint (works really well on cords that I want to paint Neutral Grey) and then clear coated it.
Title: Re: Confessions of a phone addict: Kenton k's collection gallery
Post by: Kenton K on November 18, 2014, 10:40:25 AM
Quote from: poplar1 on November 18, 2014, 08:48:42 AM
Quote from: Kenton K on November 18, 2014, 03:17:59 AM
I'm not sure what the original date is as it is covered by a 1975 repo sticker.

Date on side of network, and probably the dates on ringer and dial, should help determine the date of original manufacture.

Yes, but all I have now are seller photos. I'll have to wait till the phone arrives to really dissect the phone.

Based on Christian's phone, I'm guessing the production dated pf the 1565 was around 1964-1968. Is that right?
Kk
Title: Re: Confessions of a phone addict: Kenton k's collection gallery
Post by: WEBellSystemChristian on November 18, 2014, 11:02:19 AM
Quote from: Kenton K on November 18, 2014, 10:40:25 AM
Quote from: poplar1 on November 18, 2014, 08:48:42 AM
Quote from: Kenton K on November 18, 2014, 03:17:59 AM
I'm not sure what the original date is as it is covered by a 1975 repo sticker.

Date on side of network, and probably the dates on ringer and dial, should help determine the date of original manufacture.

Yes, but all I have now are seller photos. I'll have to wait till the phone arrives to really dissect the phone.

Based on Christian's phone, I'm guessing the production dated pf the 1565 was around 1964-1968. Is that right?
Kk
It would have been made between 1963 and 1968, but because of the non-painted base, I would say that it's between 1967 and 1968.
Title: Re: Confessions of a phone addict: Kenton k's collection gallery
Post by: Dave F on November 18, 2014, 12:22:30 PM
Here's some additional info on convertible 10/12-button Touchtone dials:

http://www.classicrotaryphones.com/forum/index.php?PHPSESSID=2318302490964d95d64e6e22a20decd5&topic=3720.msg49416#msg49416

DF
Title: Re: Confessions of a phone addict: Kenton k's collection gallery
Post by: Kenton K on November 23, 2014, 10:10:27 PM
Hi!

I just won another red 302! I put in a bid of $200 and was surprised when I won. It'll be another project! Exciting!

www.ebay.com/itm/331387241891 (http://www.ebay.com/itm/331387241891)

Title: Re: Confessions of a phone addict: Kenton k's collection gallery
Post by: Kenton K on December 05, 2014, 01:28:49 AM
My 2nd soft ivory 500 from 1955! Just a little faded, so I might try the bleach method.  ;D

Best-Kenton
Title: Re: Confessions of a phone addict: Kenton k's collection gallery
Post by: Kenton K on December 09, 2014, 03:52:47 PM
Just finished restoring this moss green 500 set. It was a really nice treat that all dates were matching. The gray cords are interesting though. All dates are 9-56, which seems late for gray cords. I thought matching cords were released in the spring of 56. I guess there were always exceptions.

Ken
Title: Re: Confessions of a phone addict: Kenton k's collection gallery
Post by: Kenton K on January 01, 2015, 03:12:06 AM
I think my computer screen is broken, because i just spent big $$$ on this telephone!!! ::) ::) ::)
Or maybe my glasses are a little old.  8) 8) 8)
I don't have it yet, and I don't really know what color it is.
Any ideas?
Title: Re: Confessions of a phone addict: Kenton k's collection gallery
Post by: 19and41 on January 01, 2015, 01:51:44 PM
Fuchsia?
Title: Re: Confessions of a phone addict: Kenton k's collection gallery
Post by: WesternElectricBen on January 01, 2015, 03:57:06 PM
Quote from: Kenton K on January 01, 2015, 03:12:06 AM
I think my computer screen is broken, because i just spent big $$$ on this telephone!!! ::) ::) ::)
Or maybe my glasses are a little old.  8) 8) 8)
I don't have it yet, and I don't really know what color it is.
Any ideas?
Looks like red to me..

Ben
Title: Re: Confessions of a phone addict: Kenton k's collection gallery
Post by: Mr. Bones on January 01, 2015, 05:12:24 PM
Quote from: WesternElectricBen on January 01, 2015, 03:57:06 PM
Quote from: Kenton K on January 01, 2015, 03:12:06 AM
I think my computer screen is broken, because i just spent big $$$ on this telephone!!! ::) ::) ::)
Or maybe my glasses are a little old.  8) 8) 8)
I don't have it yet, and I don't really know what color it is.
Any ideas?
Looks like red to me.
Ben
Agreed. Looks like red to me, as well, with weird lighting, and/or flash in the auction pic(s)

Best regards!
Title: Re: Confessions of a phone addict: Kenton k's collection gallery
Post by: Kenton K on January 04, 2015, 09:38:36 PM
I asked the seller what the true color was and he said red .  :'( :'( :'( But he didn't ship yet so we arranged a full refund.  ;D ;D

Glad this happened before he shipped!

-Ken
Title: Re: Confessions of a phone addict: Kenton k's collection gallery
Post by: Kenton K on January 04, 2015, 09:45:26 PM
I went to a flea market today and got some phones!!!

Firstly, a North 541 in black from 1957. Small crack which Should be repairable. $20

Secondly, a SC multiline? Green, and with the original box and paperwork! $20

Thirdly, a 1946 Metal 302, I bought it because it seems like a later metal version. Also, the paint is great! $25

Lastly, a C1 hang-up phone with a 4H dial. The case is rusty and the celluloid dial plate is ruined, but the E1 handset is fully seamless! I may swap the dial for a #2 and put the 4H in a 1937 302. $55

Lots a moneys spent! Better sell some phones!

-best-Kenton
Title: Re: Confessions of a phone addict: Kenton k's collection gallery
Post by: WesternElectricBen on January 04, 2015, 09:47:30 PM
Very nice pickups, Ken.

Ben
Title: Re: Confessions of a phone addict: Kenton k's collection gallery
Post by: WEBellSystemChristian on January 05, 2015, 08:35:09 AM
Very nice Ken! I really like the C mount, although it looks like it needs a bit of work!

I wish I could go to flea markets near me, but it's -4 degrees outside!!
Title: Re: Confessions of a phone addict: Kenton k's collection gallery
Post by: Kenton K on January 05, 2015, 10:41:20 PM
Yes, the C mount is a little rusty, although I may just leave it as it. I really don't like repainting! I flipped it around so the more rusty side is on the back.

Also, the North is rather interesting as it has 2 networks! One seems to be a version of the 425 while the other seems to be a basic anti-sidetone network. I guess it would be cheaper to have an modern exterior and use old school electronics. There must be a location to screw in an extra condenser. Although when they include both networks, it certainly isn't saving any money!

-Ken
Title: Re: Confessions of a phone addict: Kenton k's collection gallery
Post by: Kenton K on January 22, 2015, 09:42:18 PM
Just purchased a 1937 vented 302 from the evil bay. No, not Mark's, (not that rich), but a cheaper one. It is all matching dates! I'll post pics later tonight.

Ken
Title: Re: Confessions of a phone addict: Kenton k's collection gallery
Post by: Kenton K on January 24, 2015, 01:38:53 AM
Hello,

Here are some pictures of the latest 1937 phone I purchased. It cost me $150.

I believe the phone to be all original, except for the missing line cord. All dates are 1937, including the handset cord. The dial is a 4H converted type 2 dial, with a 132A plate which I presume to be original. There is a seamless F1 handset on board, with matching elements and caps; although the transmitter cap doesn't have a date, just two green dots which I am also assuming to be original. The paint condition is amazing! Very small chips on the vent and ears.

The only thing I added was a repo number card.

-Kenton

Title: Re: Confessions of a phone addict: Kenton k's collection gallery
Post by: Kenton K on January 24, 2015, 01:43:18 AM
Here are some detailed handset pics for the previous phone:
Title: Re: Confessions of a phone addict: Kenton k's collection gallery
Post by: Kenton K on January 24, 2015, 01:49:47 AM
And here is my collection of 1937 302s.

The leftmost one is a 9-37. It is about 80% original. It has an early 5H (1938) dial with a disintegrating 1937 celluloid dial plate. The handset is also seamless, but the elements and caps don't match.

The middle is a 11-37. It is 50% original. There are no internals(network, ringer...). The E1 handset is not original. But dial blank is original.

The right one is a 9-37 that I described bellow.

Wow, too many! I guess its time to sell one. lol

-Ken
Title: Re: Confessions of a phone addict: Kenton k's collection gallery
Post by: WEBellSystemChristian on January 26, 2015, 07:57:50 PM
Jeez, Kent, you have at least one of pretty much everything I don't have! A Rose Beige 500, a 1950 500, Pekin red 302s, THREE '37 302s...
What next, an Oxford Gray Mushroom? :o
Great collection so far!! Keep up the great work!!
Title: Re: Confessions of a phone addict: Kenton k's collection gallery
Post by: Kenton K on January 26, 2015, 08:24:46 PM
Thanks! I wish I had an gray mushroom! It has taken me a few years to find a complete 37 302. Although I think you have more phones that I don't have. I'm especially envious of your soft plastic 500s.  ::)

I'll try to keep the phones coming along!

Kenton

Title: Re: Confessions of a phone addict: Kenton k's collection gallery
Post by: Kenton K on February 16, 2015, 03:00:25 PM
Two more nice candlestick to add to my stick collection.

One is a 151C converted from a 50al. It seems the 151C has extra hook switch contacts. Quite a little pile! Unfortunately, the inside wiring harness and terminal plates are missing. It is strange how they didn't change the transmitter and receiver with the 302 type elements. It looks to be refurbed in the late 30s.

The other is a 151AL, converted from a 51AL. There is a hole at the top which says it was a lamp at some point. Has bulldog transmitter. Refurbed in 1949. Works great!

Both c/s have paint which has been amazingly preserved. Both have 2AB dials, with newer number plates from the 30s and 40s.

I love them!
Best regards-Kenton
Title: Re: Confessions of a phone addict: Kenton k's collection gallery
Post by: unbeldi on February 16, 2015, 03:42:44 PM
Looking nice.

For the 151C, you can find out what all those switches do right here:  http://www.classicrotaryphones.com/forum/index.php?topic=12354.msg130300#msg130300

You need a 634-BC or a 684-BC subset for that with a six-conductor mounting cord.  Happy wiring!

Your two sets go nicely together, because they complement each other. This combo was used on 2-party  message rate lines.  The 151C was used for tip-party, while the 151AL was used for the party on the ring side.
Title: Re: Confessions of a phone addict: Kenton k's collection gallery
Post by: Kenton K on February 16, 2015, 04:48:35 PM
Thanks Unbeldi!

I didn't know they were a set like that. Does the central office distinguish the 151C set from the 151al set from the ringer resistance from GND and Ring?

-Ken
Title: Re: Confessions of a phone addict: Kenton k's collection gallery
Post by: unbeldi on February 16, 2015, 05:24:11 PM
Quote from: Kenton K on February 16, 2015, 04:48:35 PM
Thanks Unbeldi!

I didn't know they were a set like that. Does the central office distinguish the 151C set from the 151al set from the ringer resistance from GND and Ring?

-Ken

Yes.  When taking the receiver off-hook, the 151C (in general the tip-party) presented a 1000 ohm resistance to ground, while the ring party didn't.  The central office had circuitry that detected the condition and the message register knew which party dialed the number.

For these anti-sidetone sets, the ring party could just be a normal 151AL with a 634A or 684A subset, while for the earlier sidetone sets, the 51C and the 51AL pair, both needed a 554-C subset.


Title: Re: Confessions of a phone addict: Kenton k's collection gallery
Post by: WEBellSystemChristian on February 16, 2015, 07:20:14 PM
Wow, Ken, what a great looking set of phones! You're lucky that you have more than one #2 dial; I only have a 2AA on a 533 wall phone, which is pretty common on those phones...

The paint on both is absolutely fantastic! ;)
Title: Re: Confessions of a phone addict: Kenton k's collection gallery
Post by: Kenton K on February 21, 2015, 03:14:55 AM
Thanks! WE candlesticks are some of my favorite designs. They just look right! I'll have to post a pic of my candlestick collection sometime.

Ken
Title: Re: Confessions of a phone addict: Kenton k's collection gallery
Post by: WEBellSystemChristian on February 21, 2015, 09:35:11 AM
Quote from: Kenton K on February 21, 2015, 03:14:55 AM
I'll have to post a pic of my candlestick collection sometime.
Hrrmm-Hmmm...

Candlestick.....collection?!? :o

Well how long has this been going on?!?

You must have a warehouse rented out in New Mexico filled with NOS 1949 500s that you haven't had the time to tell us about yet! ;D

(Yes, please, post pictures! I love Candlesticks! :) )
Title: Re: Confessions of a phone addict: Kenton k's collection gallery
Post by: Kenton K on February 21, 2015, 06:01:26 PM
Erm,, What candlesticks!? I dunno 49's your talking about.   :-X :-X :-X

Well, here is all my WE candlesticks (sans one) surrounding my crowing achievement: my watermelon seen spitting championship trophy (31 feet).

I also have one on our player piano, which also works great!

The one on the left is 40AL, the one on the right is a 20B with OST receiver.
All the rests are 50al/51al/151al/151c.

Fun!


Title: Re: Confessions of a phone addict: Kenton k's collection gallery
Post by: WEBellSystemChristian on February 21, 2015, 06:25:01 PM
Wow, and every one of them has a #2, except for the one on the far left.

I made a short mention of my small candlestick collection (of course all Western Electric, nothing but!) in this topic: http://www.classicrotaryphones.com/forum/index.php?topic=11072.msg137008#msg137008

It consists of a 40AL, 51AL, another 40AL and 51AL (both on scissors mounts), and two 151ALs.

Not much, but I love 'em all!
Title: Re: Confessions of a phone addict: Kenton k's collection gallery
Post by: Kenton K on February 21, 2015, 06:27:47 PM
Very nice! Maybe I'll post the rest of the collection later today when I have the chance.

Best-Ken
Title: Re: Confessions of a phone addict: Kenton k's collection gallery
Post by: WEBellSystemChristian on February 21, 2015, 06:33:40 PM
Quote from: Kenton K on February 21, 2015, 06:27:47 PM
Very nice! Maybe I'll post the rest of the collection later today when I have the chance.

Best-Ken
You said... the rest?!? Jeez, Ken, you aren't going to be one of those guys that gives up the hobby after a couple years, are ya? You have one kf the best and fastest growing collections I have ever seen!!;)
Title: Re: Confessions of a phone addict: Kenton k's collection gallery
Post by: Kenton K on February 21, 2015, 06:37:06 PM
Haha, no more candlesticks, but I have some desk sets I'd love to show and tell.


1st pic-group photo!
2nd pic-'new' 10 button sets and office/multiline/speaker phone
3rd pic- color 302s, with ivory, red, and oxidized silver
            'new' 500 sets aqua, lt. beige, yellow
            soft lt gray, green, ivory
4th pic- 500 sets, gold, soft pink, 1950 500a/b
            white, soft red, soft rose beige
            teletrainers! and AE payphone
5th pic-european phone, Leich, batmophone
           1946 metal 302, 1937 302, 440
           202!
6th pic-european phone, North, and 5302
           North Galion, AE40, Kellogg redbar
           apartment phone, 'hotel' phone, AE40 (with older style reciever)

           


Ken
Title: Re: Confessions of a phone addict: Kenton k's collection gallery
Post by: Kenton K on February 21, 2015, 06:47:09 PM
And some more...

ivory 354 manual
C1 wall mount
black 354

(and you can see my project sets in the rear)

and a switchboard.

Ken
Title: Re: Confessions of a phone addict: Kenton k's collection gallery
Post by: WesternElectricBen on February 21, 2015, 07:17:54 PM
Wow Ken, you have a fantastic collection. How come you get to keep your phone stuff on the fireplace mantle? Or a switchboard right next to it?

Ben
Title: Re: Confessions of a phone addict: Kenton k's collection gallery
Post by: Dennis Markham on February 21, 2015, 07:58:25 PM
Great collection, Ken.  Thanks for the photos!
Title: Re: Confessions of a phone addict: Kenton k's collection gallery
Post by: Doug Rose on February 22, 2015, 08:44:31 AM
Outstanding! .....Really Outstanding....17 years Old?? Maybe I'm Amazed to quote another old timer....Display is just wonderful....Doug
Title: Re: Confessions of a phone addict: Kenton k's collection gallery
Post by: WEBellSystemChristian on February 22, 2015, 09:04:58 AM
Holy cow, Ken, I had no idea!! What an absolutely fantastic collection you have!!!

Don't be surprised if you see some forum members peeking through the window at the phones in the next few days!
Title: Re: Confessions of a phone addict: Kenton k's collection gallery
Post by: Kenton K on March 05, 2015, 12:38:29 AM
Thanks guys. I'm trying to remember when my first phone became two, and then three, and then what I considered to be a collection. They really multiply before you know it!

One more phone to add to the family: a AE34.

Here it is with its younger brother the AE40. Both are in superb condition, with original cords and connector terminal blocks. I think I paid $70 for the AE34 and $20 for the AE40.

One question I have is why the AE34 has little depressed circles where two plungers should go on more modern phones phones. Its like they were experimenting with plunger locations. IDK.
I also love those beefy cradle ears!

regards-Ken
Title: Re: Confessions of a phone addict: Kenton k's collection gallery
Post by: Bartonpipes on March 05, 2015, 06:55:17 PM
Very nice collection!!

Do you have a player piano around there somewhere? I couldn't help but notice all of the piano rolls.
Title: Re: Confessions of a phone addict: Kenton k's collection gallery
Post by: Kenton K on March 05, 2015, 08:54:59 PM
Yes! I do have a player piano. Its to the left of the shelf with the rolls. I'll get a photo in here of it. I think the player piano is one of the most ingenious engineered household devices. All powered by air. Marvelous.

Ken
Title: Re: Confessions of a phone addict: Kenton k's collection gallery
Post by: Kenton K on March 10, 2015, 01:16:44 AM
New 10 button, a wall trimline! in moss green too. 3 of my 10 buttons phones are green; I feel like I must get them all in green now. Oh dear...

Ken
Title: Re: Confessions of a phone addict: Kenton k's collection gallery
Post by: compubit on March 10, 2015, 08:14:50 PM
Did you get that one off of eBay? if so, I was bidding on it, but got sucked away at the end of the auction by work, and missed the end.  Glad it's going to one of us!

Jim
Title: Re: Confessions of a phone addict: Kenton k's collection gallery
Post by: Kenton K on May 23, 2015, 01:38:36 PM
Hio!

I'm back after a little break from the forum. Life has been pretty busy lately. As some of you may know, I'm am a senior in high school and am preparing to go to college. So I've been taking care of that business. Because I'll be moving out, I'm going to start inventorying and selling extra phones. (But that apparently hasn't stopped me from buying new ones! Curses!).

So ill try to keep you guys updated with my phones.

Kk
Title: Re: Confessions of a phone addict: Kenton k's collection gallery
Post by: Kenton K on May 23, 2015, 02:02:48 PM
Here is a phone that I'm on the edge about keeping it, and before I make a decision, I want to post it in my collection first.
It is a 1979/1980 clear 220 wall push button trimline I got on eBay a while ago. It's in nice shape, with only a small hairline crack. I think that is the original h/s cord. I love the way you can see the LEDs through the case at night!

Ken
Title: Re: Confessions of a phone addict: Kenton k's collection gallery
Post by: WEBellSystemChristian on May 23, 2015, 02:17:33 PM
Welcome back, Ken! I was wondering what happened to you! I just realized I will probably have to do the same thing in a couple years... :o

I'll be watching for any new phones you have now!
Title: Re: Confessions of a phone addict: Kenton k's collection gallery
Post by: WEBellSystemChristian on May 23, 2015, 02:19:55 PM
Quote from: Kenton K on May 23, 2015, 02:02:48 PM
Here is a phone that I'm on the edge about keeping it, and before I make a decision, I want to post it in my collection first.
It is a 1979/1980 clear 220 wall push button trimline I got on eBay a while ago. It's in nice shape, with only a small hairline crack. I think that is the original h/s cord. I love the way you can see the LEDs through the case at night!

Ken
In your situation, I would keep it.

It would be one thing if it were some bulky 500 or 1500, but this is just about as small as it gets for WE, so it would be much easier to pack with you.

It's also something you may have regrets about in the future if you get rid of it.
Title: Re: Confessions of a phone addict: Kenton k's collection gallery
Post by: Russ Kirk on May 23, 2015, 04:24:05 PM
Nice phone. Please keep us posted if you decide to sell.
Title: Re: Confessions of a phone addict: Kenton k's collection gallery
Post by: Dave F on May 24, 2015, 04:07:34 PM
Ken,

Clear WE phones don't come along all that often, and they tend to become more valuable with the passage of time.  This is one I think you would ultimately regret selling.

DF
Title: Re: Confessions of a phone addict: Kenton k's collection gallery
Post by: Kenton K on August 14, 2016, 01:46:22 AM
I recently got an absolutely stunning red 202. The paint is amazing on this thing. The only chip in the paint I can find is on the edge near the base and on the dial. The cradle area is like new. I don't think its ever been used!

At first I though this was just a really good home paint job because as I cleaned it, a little red came off and the cord is brown, not red. But I'm now pretty sure its original because the F4 handset has the 'F4' mark stamped over the paint; a home-brew wouldn't do that.

Its also got a 5J dial which was refurbished from a very early 5H dial with a 1937 phenol pulse pawl. Cool.

Lastly, a family photo of all my continentals!
Title: Re: Confessions of a phone addict: Kenton k's collection gallery
Post by: poplar1 on August 14, 2016, 07:46:00 AM
The "5J" stamp appears to be the only code, rather than a conversion from 5H. If so, it is odd that the original date is missing (not painted over).

Both 4J and pre-1941 5J dials had stainless steel unpainted finger wheels and white cases when new.  The W terminal was next to the governor on 1937 dials.

Perhaps the casing was painted black in 1950, and the new contact springs were added then.
Title: Re: Confessions of a phone addict: Kenton k's collection gallery
Post by: unbeldi on August 14, 2016, 09:18:43 AM
There is a paint run blob on the inside handset, which would make me very skeptical about originality.
Are there any dates that indicate 1955 ?  A transmitter at least that was refilled or tested in in 1955?

PS: I think most Continentals have a new 6D dial of 1955, but I  have and have seen colored 202s with earlier, refurbished dials too.  Even dials that were not stamped 5J, but still 5H.  It is possible that such sets were simply custom-ordered 202s, rather than formal Continentals.  The Continentals always had matching cord colors.
On the other hand, the F4 handset, especially marked ones, didn't exist much earlier than 1955. In 1954, the designated handset for those zones was still the BA type, with an HC5 receiver.
Title: Re: Confessions of a phone addict: Kenton k's collection gallery
Post by: poplar1 on August 14, 2016, 10:51:03 AM
Some green Continentals have brushed aluminum finger wheels and black neoprene H3AG and D4AN cords.
Continentals have been found with 6D, 5J, 5H, 4J and maybe 4H dials. I don't think the majority have 6Ds.

The requirement for having 6-type dials whenever T1 and U1 units are used -- because of more accurate signaling (dial pulses) -- does not seem to be followed for Continentals or Imperials.

Addendum C32.111, Issue B., Nov., 1955, SBT&TCo Standard, lists 202s in Black, Ivory, Green and Red, with D4U and H3C cords. "Sets in the above colors can be ordered with F1 or F4 handsets as required."
Title: Re: Confessions of a phone addict: Kenton k's collection gallery
Post by: Kenton K on August 14, 2016, 11:15:00 AM
Quote from: poplar1 on August 14, 2016, 07:46:00 AM
The "5J" stamp appears to be the only code, rather than a conversion from 5H. If so, it is odd that the original date is missing (not painted over).

Perhaps the casing was painted black in 1950, and the new contact springs were added then.

Poplar, it's hard to see, especially in the photo, but there is a red 5H marking between the governor and pulse pawl. The 1937 date stamp was also painted over and is near the 5J stamp.

On the phone, the transmitter, receiver, cord, and number plate are 1955. About the paint blob, I have a green continental that has a similar paint blob on the handset. I'll post photos.

kk
Title: Re: Confessions of a phone addict: Kenton k's collection gallery
Post by: poplar1 on August 14, 2016, 11:38:54 AM
Quote from: unbeldi on August 14, 2016, 09:18:43 AM
On the other hand, the F4 handset, especially marked ones, didn't exist much earlier than 1955. In 1954, the designated handset for those zones was still the BA type, with an HC5 receiver.

F4A handsets are listed in "Handsets, Description", Section C32.203, Issue 7, Oct., 1954.
At that time, they had an F4 handle, U1 receiver unit and F1 transmitter unit.
It was used "In place of the F1G handset where the transmission characteristics of a U1 receiver unit are required."
[At that time, the F4 handsets did not yet have T1 transmitter units and adaptor rings.]

The same table lists the BA-760726 handset with F1 handle, T1 transmitter unit, and HC5 receiver unit for use
"In place of the F1G where the transmission characteristics of a T1 transmitter and HC5 receiver unit are required."

I believe that Paul F. has mentioned the transition from F1 units to T1 units in F4A handsets.
Edit: BSP Section C32.275, Issue 6, Jan., 1956, "Handsets, Maintenance" states that the "new" F4 and F5 handsets have  T1 transmitter units and U1 receiver units and that the "old" F4s and F5s have F1 and U1 units.
Title: Re: Confessions of a phone addict: Kenton k's collection gallery
Post by: poplar1 on August 14, 2016, 11:52:54 AM
Quote from: Kenton K on August 14, 2016, 11:15:00 AM
Poplar, it's hard to see, especially in the photo, but there is a red 5H marking between the governor and pulse pawl. The 1937 

Thanks. I forgot that on 4H dials and early (pre-1939?) 5H dials, the code no. is on the right, and the date is on the left.
Title: Re: Confessions of a phone addict: Kenton k's collection gallery
Post by: Kenton K on September 04, 2016, 01:52:14 AM
I recently saw a Kellogg turquoise phone and had to have it. I don't see this type of ridiculous color often. I like it a lot better than the neon green and bright orange. It is made from a translucent soft plastic. Too bad its faded. Any tips for this color? Should I use peroxide or bleach?

-Ken
Title: Re: Confessions of a phone addict: Kenton k's collection gallery
Post by: Kenton K on September 12, 2016, 01:06:35 AM
I just got a very nice 1958 soft plastic yellow 500D. I believe the phone is local as well, although I'm not sure if the number card is. I bought it about 15 miles away. This sure is a hard to find 'common' color.  ;D

The original box is neat too. It has 1958 colors on it and a two tone set. Western Electric was sure was good at recycling; they even recycled boxes! The box housed not one, but two other phones! Before the 500 DR-Yellow, it had a 501DR-3, and a 304 CR-3! Neat!

-Ken
Title: Re: Confessions of a phone addict: Kenton k's collection gallery
Post by: WEBellSystemChristian on September 12, 2016, 08:17:57 AM
Nice find, Ken!

Yellow is definitely a surprisingly hard color to find, plus yours has the box! ;)
Title: Re: Confessions of a phone addict: Kenton k's collection gallery
Post by: Doug Rose on September 12, 2016, 04:21:40 PM
Very nice Ken...Doug
Title: Re: Confessions of a phone addict: Kenton k's collection gallery
Post by: Kenton K on June 22, 2017, 07:20:47 PM
Hi y'all!

Summer vacation just started so I've been reunited with my collection and wanted to update the forum on my collection. I did some clean-up and incorporated some of my more recent additions. Pretty much all my additions these days are soft plastic 500 sets. I really am working to finishing the set.

I got a nice 1959 aqua blue 500, which replaced a ratty set I had.

I got a great mahogany brown 500 from the northern California show all the way back in November. It was missing cords, and I managed to source an original brown WE handset cord. I really like the brown, its so subtle and warm.

I also acquired a Mediterranean Blue 500 set. I had a really badly damaged two tone set, and its nice to get a complete one. Small corner crack, but nothing I can't live with.

Lastly, I finally purchased a soft plastic 1958 light beige 500. I had previously bought what turned out to be a hard plastic 1959 hard plastic set, so its nice to have the real deal.

All in all, its great to finally have these colors. I wanna thank  Vern, Christian, and Paul for helping me get some these phones+parts. Thank you so much! I've spent maybe 7 years on my 500 collection so far, and I'm not done yet! I'm still looking for white and oxford gray; (ps. I'm always looking for leads!). Maybe it'll take 7 more years?!  ::)

-Kenton





Title: Re: Confessions of a phone addict: Kenton k's collection gallery
Post by: RotarDad on June 23, 2017, 01:53:14 AM
Welcome back, Kenton!  Those 500s look great!!  The new additions are nice, but I really like that yellow one too... ;)  Yellow was more common by the 60s, but very hard to find a nice 50s version....
Title: Re: Confessions of a phone addict: Kenton k's collection gallery
Post by: WEBellSystemChristian on June 23, 2017, 07:35:08 AM
The new additions look great, Ken!

Wow, you've been at this for 7 years?!? I've only been collecting for less than 4! :o