Classic Rotary Phones Forum

Telephone Talk => Auction Talk => Topic started by: TelePlay on June 28, 2015, 02:16:54 PM

Title: Explosive Atmosphere 320 on eBay
Post by: TelePlay on June 28, 2015, 02:16:54 PM
I guess this happens from time to time . . . 

Seller described the phone as "You are bidding on a World War Two Western Electric Type 320 ROTARY DIAL EXPLOSION PROOF Telephone.  This rare and unique telephone is in good condition - please refer to the multiple pictures i've listed and message me with any questions you may have.  The front is marked "320 Type Telephone Set", "Western Electric", "Made in USA".  The handset is marked "Western Electric Company", "USA", "F 6 W".  These phones were used by the military as they were explosion proof.  Measures approx. 10 ΒΌ" in diameter x 7" deep.  See pictures for more details.  GREAT addition to any collection!" and is only asking $13.89 for shipping. I guess if it sells for the $198 BIN asking price, $20 or so could be taken out of that to cover the extra shipping charges.

I think the seller knows not of which he sells with that contrived and interesting application for the phone.
Title: Re: Explosive Atmosphere 320 on eBay
Post by: Mr. Bones on June 28, 2015, 02:22:56 PM
Very cool phone! 8)

Always wanted me one of them rare, WWII G handsets... ;)

Best regards!
Title: Re: Explosive Atmosphere 320 on eBay
Post by: andre_janew on June 28, 2015, 04:13:08 PM
I don't think that is the original handset.  I think the original may have been destroyed during the Korean War.
Title: Re: Explosive Atmosphere 320 on eBay
Post by: WEBellSystemChristian on June 28, 2015, 06:47:24 PM
After all, we needed good, futuristic Western Electric quality to stand up to mortars, grenade explosions, artillery HEAT blasts, and constant nuclear fallouts that the Nazis were dropping on us in the Continental United States during World War 2!!!

:-\ ;D :o
Title: Re: Explosive Atmosphere 320 on eBay
Post by: Sargeguy on June 29, 2015, 10:20:48 AM
I shipped one of these (minus the handset) in a USPS large flat rate priority mail box once.  It was a tight squeeze!!!
Title: Re: Explosive Atmosphere 320 on eBay
Post by: andre_janew on June 29, 2015, 10:42:18 AM
Quote from: WEBellSystemChristian on June 28, 2015, 06:47:24 PM
After all, we needed good, futuristic Western Electric quality to stand up to mortars, grenade explosions, artillery HEAT blasts, and constant nuclear fallouts that the Nazis were dropping on us in the Continental United States during World War 2!!!

:-\ ;D :o
The Nazis may have planned on attacking the Continental United States during World War 2, but I understood that the war ended before they got a chance to do so.
Title: Re: Explosive Atmosphere 320 on eBay
Post by: paul-f on June 29, 2015, 10:48:48 AM
Quote from: andre_janew on June 28, 2015, 04:13:08 PM
I don't think that is the original handset.  I think the original may have been destroyed during the Korean War.

...and I'd be really surprised if that handset is marked F6W - or F-anything.
Title: Re: Explosive Atmosphere 320 on eBay
Post by: TelePlay on June 29, 2015, 06:52:37 PM
Forgot the eBay link and in finding it, see the seller has reduced the price to $188.00 BIN.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/WWII-1940S-WESTERN-ELECTRIC-TYPE-320-ROTARY-DIAL-EXPLOSION-PROOF-TELEPHONE-/321793843968

There are 3 other 320s on eBay right now:

Rare Western Electric 320 Type Rotary Explosion Proof Mid Century Phone  ($360 BIN + $50 shipping  --  361269690964)
WWII 1940'S WESTERN ELECTRIC TYPE 320 ROTARY DIAL EXPLOSION PROOF TELEPHONE ($199 auction + shipping -- -221813425129)
Rare Western Electric 320 Type Rotary Explosion Proof Mid Century Phone  ($349 BIN + shipping -- -371362595259)

Interesting how one seller at some point in time used "explosion proof" and it carries over to all other auctions with one of the sellers saying it was used in mines in explosive conditions, another saying nothing about the phone and the third using the same phrase that started this topic.

Guess caveat emptor is the right phrase in all 4 of these listings, if not many or most on eBay.
Title: Re: Explosive Atmosphere 320 on eBay
Post by: andre_janew on June 30, 2015, 11:07:28 AM
Also note the wide variation in price.  Interesting how a certain make and model of phone can have both civilian and military applications.
Title: Re: Explosive Atmosphere 320 on eBay
Post by: Sargeguy on June 30, 2015, 11:11:42 PM
These are really not that rare, every grain elevator and coal mine had one, and they are pretty much indestructible.  I have owned two, and paid less than $100 for each.  If you buy one make sure you get the bracket, and that the phone screws all the way onto the bracket.  Even so these things are white elephants-you want one until you actually get one!  This is one phone you could actually use as a boat anchor. 
Title: Re: Explosive Atmosphere 320 on eBay
Post by: Dave F on July 01, 2015, 12:31:19 PM
Quote from: Sargeguy on June 30, 2015, 11:11:42 PM
<snip> ...  Even so these things are white elephants-you want one until you actually get one!  ...

I have to disagree with that thought.  I have a 320, and I'm still happy that I do!  The biggest challenge was finding a genuine W.E. key  for the (unnecessary) 23A lock.  That took some serious searching.  Eventually, I'll install the 320 in the bathroom right next to my 1942  5gallon/flush Kohler Wellworth toilet -- a proper location, if there ever was one!

DF
Title: Re: Explosive Atmosphere 320 on eBay
Post by: HarrySmith on July 01, 2015, 01:29:48 PM
Quote from: Dave F on July 01, 2015, 12:31:19 PM
Quote from: Sargeguy on June 30, 2015, 11:11:42 PM
<snip> ...  Even so these things are white elephants-you want one until you actually get one!  ...

I have to disagree with that thought.  I have a 320, and I'm still happy that I do!  The biggest challenge was finding a genuine W.E. key  for the (unnecessary) 23A lock.  That took some serious searching.  Eventually, I'll install the 320 in the bathroom right next to my 1942  5gallon/flush Kohler Wellworth toilet -- a proper location, if there ever was one!

DF

Where did you find a key? I need one!
Title: Re: Explosive Atmosphere 320 on eBay
Post by: Dave F on July 01, 2015, 03:08:40 PM
Quote from: HarrySmith on July 01, 2015, 01:29:48 PM
Where did you find a key? I need one!
Harry,

From your question I gather that you too are happy to have a 320!

Whenever I have a conversation with anybody who is even remotely interested in phones I rattle off my extensive wish-list.  It is a thankless task that usually results in failure.  Fortunately, however, every so often I get lucky and manage to cross something off the list.  For me, the harder an item is to find, the more intent I am to find it.  That 23A key was a thorn in my side for years.  At long last, I ran across a guy who coincidentally had a lock and key from a scrapped 320.  So, now I have the key and also a spare lock!

The important message here (to all collectors) is to never ever give up, because all those neat things are still out there, waiting to be discovered.

Dave
Title: Re: Explosive Atmosphere 320 on eBay
Post by: HarrySmith on July 01, 2015, 08:25:41 PM
Yes, I actually have 1 1/2. The second one is missing the back. Neither have a key. Maybe I will ask Jody.
Title: Re: Explosive Atmosphere 320 on eBay
Post by: Dave F on July 01, 2015, 10:21:23 PM
For posterity, here is a picture of the 23A lock and key from a W.E. 320-type phone.

DF
Title: Re: Explosive Atmosphere 320 on eBay
Post by: Doug Rose on July 02, 2015, 05:40:30 AM
When I first started collecting, I heard the Old Timers call them the "Soviet Princess." I am more than happy with mine. A Brimfield find years ago in wonderful condition with the key!....Doug
Title: Re: Explosive Atmosphere 320 on eBay
Post by: poplar1 on July 02, 2015, 08:30:14 AM
Someone sold a key in the last few days on Ebay.
Title: Re: Explosive Atmosphere 320 on eBay
Post by: TelePlay on July 02, 2015, 08:45:42 AM
Quote from: poplar1 on July 02, 2015, 08:30:14 AM
Someone sold a key in the last few days on Ebay.

Looks like it was in an explosion . . .  ;)

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Vintage-key-for-EXPLOSION-PROOF-phones-Rare-/331577678793

Title: Re: Explosive Atmosphere 320 on eBay
Post by: HarrySmith on July 02, 2015, 09:27:53 PM
darn! Sorry I missed that >:(
Title: Re: Explosive Atmosphere 320 on eBay
Post by: DavePEI on July 03, 2015, 04:18:26 AM
Quote from: HarrySmith on July 02, 2015, 09:27:53 PM
darn! Sorry I missed that >:(
Now, that is a darn good photo. If only someone had the correct blank, it would be easy to cut a working key just from the photo... Measurements and everything!
Title: Re: Explosive Atmosphere 320 on eBay
Post by: TelePlay on July 03, 2015, 06:20:23 AM
Quote from: DavePEI on July 03, 2015, 04:18:26 AMIf only someone had the correct blank, it would be easy to cut a working key just from the photo.

Yes, you're right. And there is an App, or Apps for that. Here's one of many vendors providing keys from photos.

https://keysduplicated.com/

Do a Google search for "make a key from a photo" and you'll get a lot of similar links.

And, not only you will have a duplicated key but so will every one else.   ;)

I didn't go into the site so don't know what they use, of anything, for a blank. I suspect they may not have to have the blank. Where would they find and stock blanks for everything? For only $6, and if I had a smart phone, it would be interesting to try this on a payphone key.

EDIT:  They don't cut all or any keys so maybe it is a common blank cutting service.
Title: Re: Explosive Atmosphere 320 on eBay
Post by: Dave F on July 03, 2015, 01:09:49 PM
Quote from: DavePEI on July 03, 2015, 04:18:26 AM
<snip>... If only someone had the correct blank, it would be easy to cut a working key just from the photo...

The problem is that this particular key blank is not readily available.  Jody (and probably others as well) have the ability to hand-make blanks and cut keys that will work but, from a collector's standpoint, having the genuine W.E. article is definitely preferable.  Also, remember that having the key is not a requirement for accessing the interior of the 320, as the lock can easily be removed from behind the faceplate with just a screwdriver.

DF
Title: Re: Explosive Atmosphere 320 on eBay
Post by: DavePEI on July 03, 2015, 02:05:05 PM
Quote from: Dave F on July 03, 2015, 01:09:49 PM
Quote from: DavePEI on July 03, 2015, 04:18:26 AM
<snip>... If only someone had the correct blank, it would be easy to cut a working key just from the photo...

The problem is that this particular key blank is not readily available.  Jody (and probably others as well) have the ability to hand-make blanks and cut keys that will work but, from a collector's standpoint, having the genuine W.E. article is definitely preferable.  Also, remember that having the key is not a requirement for accessing the interior of the 320, as the lock can easily be removed from behind the faceplate with just a screwdriver.

DF
Speaking as a collector, the ability to retain the original lock is preferable to removing the lock and to not being able to use it at all. Remember, I said if you had a blank, you could make a key from the photo. Still, I would prefer to have Jody cut a key rather than to have none at all.

Do you use only Western Electric solder, too :) ?

Now, remember, I was speaking only hypothetically. I, too, have had to remove the locks from both my 320 and 2520. But, I would have preferred to retain them.

Dave
Title: Re: Explosive Atmosphere 320 on eBay
Post by: Dave F on July 03, 2015, 04:40:44 PM
Quote from: DavePEI on July 03, 2015, 02:05:05 PM

Speaking as a collector, the ability to retain the original lock is preferable to removing the lock and to not being able to use it at all. Remember, I said if you had a blank, you could make a key from the photo. Still, I would prefer to have Jody cut a key rather than to have none at all.

Do you use only Western Electric solder, too :) ?

Now, remember, I was speaking only hypothetically. I, too, have had to remove the locks from both my 320 and 2520. But, I would have preferred to retain them.

Dave
Certainly it is nicer (more "professional"?) to keep the lock installed in the phone than to remove it.  My point was that in the case of the 320, as opposed to any payphone, it is not necessary to have a key to gain access to the inside.  Having any key, even a homemade one, for a payphone is essentially a necessity, whereas with a 320 we have the luxury of waiting for a real W.E. key without the inconvenience of not being able to open the phone.

(Almost all the soldering I do does not involve Western Electric phones, so I find Kester a reasonable substitute!)

DF
Title: Re: Explosive Atmosphere 320 on eBay
Post by: andre_janew on July 03, 2015, 04:49:09 PM
Wait!  Are you saying that Western Electric has their own brand of solder?
Title: Re: Explosive Atmosphere 320 on eBay
Post by: Dave F on July 03, 2015, 04:53:07 PM
Quote from: andre_janew on July 03, 2015, 04:49:09 PM
Wait!  Are you saying that Western Electric has their own brand of solder?
W.E. used mostly Nassau solder, but I would bet that there is plenty of "off-brand" solder kicking around in W.E. products.  Unlike with keys, there is no easy way to tell the difference!

DF
Title: Re: Explosive Atmosphere 320 on eBay
Post by: rdelius on July 03, 2015, 06:12:41 PM
WE/Nassau solder brings high prices on ebay,so does WE wire on spools
Title: Re: Explosive Atmosphere 320 on eBay
Post by: DavePEI on July 03, 2015, 08:05:12 PM
Quote from: rdelius on July 03, 2015, 06:12:41 PM
WE/Nassau solder brings high prices on ebay,so does WE wire on spools
Example 5lb spool for?????:
Title: Re: Explosive Atmosphere 320 on eBay
Post by: andre_janew on July 04, 2015, 01:00:51 PM
At that price, the spool had better be as big around as my dining room table (42 inches or about 105 cm).
Title: Re: Explosive Atmosphere 320 on eBay
Post by: TelePlay on November 27, 2015, 10:58:20 AM
This phone, unlike the one in the first post of this topic (http://www.classicrotaryphones.com/forum/index.php?topic=14586.msg151487#msg151487), seems to be in very good, seller stated NOS, condition but again, wrongly described in the title "Industrial Explosion Proof Crouse Hinds Telephone." Based on the image date stamps, this phone may have been listed before on eBay.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/vtg-Industrial-Explosion-Proof-Crouse-Hinds-Telephone-works-s212-U-wall-mount-/181944038896

Is it not the case that if this phone were to be in an explosion of sorts, the handset and its cord would most likely to survive? Same as with the WE 320 if caught in an explosion. However, the point of this post is to show a different version of the 320, both "Explosive atmosphere" phones.
Title: Re: Explosive Atmosphere 320 on eBay
Post by: unbeldi on November 27, 2015, 11:12:55 AM
Quote from: TelePlay on November 27, 2015, 10:58:20 AM
This phone, unlike the one in the first post of this topic (http://www.classicrotaryphones.com/forum/index.php?topic=14586.msg151487#msg151487), seems to be in very good, seller stated NOS, condition but again, wrongly described in the title "Industrial Explosion Proof Crouse Hinds Telephone." Based on the image date stamps, this phone may have been listed before on eBay.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/vtg-Industrial-Explosion-Proof-Crouse-Hinds-Telephone-works-s212-U-wall-mount-/181944038896

Is it not the case that if this phone were to be in an explosion of sorts, the handset and its cord would most likely to survive? Same as with the WE 320 if caught in an explosion. However, the point of this post is to show a different version of the 320, both "Explosive atmosphere" phones.


These are often described as "explosion-proof" telephones, which is really a misnomer, and the descriptions by the manufacturers only refer to them as "for explosive atmospheres", or similarly.
They are not "explosion-proof", in fact they are designed to contain explosions to the interior of the unit, if they do occur due to arcing of contacts.  This prevents the propagation of the explosion to the mine atmosphere.  Ironically, if I recall correctly, the US certification uses the term "explosion-proof" as well.

If the mine explodes, and if anyone is left capable to operate the phone, the usability of it would be seriously in question anyhow, no matter how sturdy it is built, or were the lines run in indestructible conduits?

Title: Re: Explosive Atmosphere 320 on eBay
Post by: AE_Collector on November 27, 2015, 11:52:52 AM
Quote from: Sargeguy on June 29, 2015, 10:20:48 AM
I shipped one of these (minus the handset) in a USPS large flat rate priority mail box once.  It was a tight squeeze!!!

Oh oh....No room for lots of bubble wrap and double boxing! Another poorly packaged phone shipped by an eBay seller. I am certain the Post Office smashed it and Bad Feedback was left for all involved. At least the handset wasn't on the cradle this time or for once the phone would have smashed the handset instead of the handset smashing the phone.

Terry
Title: Re: Explosive Atmosphere 320 on eBay
Post by: unbeldi on November 27, 2015, 12:21:23 PM
Not exactly a 320 here, but this delicate Russian bunker instrument likely did withstand various severe abuses.

The handset likely was designed to be filled with vodka to keep the tongue and vocal cords lubricated during long nights on the phone.

Now priced down (http://www.ebay.com/itm/111830719989) to the level of a case of top quality Русский Водка.


Title: Re: Explosive Atmosphere 320 on eBay
Post by: TelePlay on November 27, 2015, 01:47:43 PM
And only about 25 days to take advantage of the steal deal.
Title: Re: Explosive Atmosphere 320 on eBay
Post by: andre_janew on November 28, 2015, 12:35:03 PM
I remember seeing that phone!  I think I remember reading that it was very heavy because it was made of steel.  I can't prove it now because the link provided is dead.
Title: Re: Explosive Atmosphere 320 on eBay
Post by: G-Man on November 28, 2015, 01:28:12 PM
Here some links showing the versions that Crouse Hinds manufactured for Western Electric, Signal Corps and Automatic Electric.
Title: Re: Explosive Atmosphere 320 on eBay
Post by: andre_janew on November 28, 2015, 05:31:15 PM
Wait a minute!  The link is working now!  The phone is made of iron, not steel.  If $299 is too much, there is a slightly different version for $270 and a manual version for $198.
Title: Re: Explosive Atmosphere 320 on eBay
Post by: Sargeguy on November 28, 2015, 09:53:13 PM
QuoteOh oh....No room for lots of bubble wrap and double boxing! Another poorly packaged phone shipped by an eBay seller. I am certain the Post Office smashed it and Bad Feedback was left for all involved. At least the handset wasn't on the cradle this time or for once the phone would have smashed the handset instead of the handset smashing the phone.

Terry


That is how the buyer asked me to send it, and I did not need to include the scratched up G-3 and cracked cord in the package, so that helped. 
Title: Re: Explosive Atmosphere 320 on eBay
Post by: Greg G. on November 29, 2015, 04:19:50 PM
Quote from: Dave F on July 01, 2015, 12:31:19 PM

Eventually, I'll install the 320 in the bathroom right next to my 1942  5gallon/flush Kohler Wellworth toilet -- a proper location, if there ever was one!

DF

Methane explosions when on the bathroom phone, I hate it when that happens!  Gotta get me a 320!
Title: Re: Explosive Atmosphere 320 on eBay
Post by: Doug Rose on November 29, 2015, 06:30:57 PM
Briny...you know your wife loves you. Do you get the industrial size Glade as well? The one that looks like a fire extinguisher....Doug
Title: Re: Explosive Atmosphere 320 on eBay
Post by: TelePlay on November 29, 2015, 09:47:36 PM
Quote from: Brinybay on November 29, 2015, 04:19:50 PM
Quote from: Dave F on July 01, 2015, 12:31:19 PM

Eventually, I'll install the 320 in the bathroom right next to my 1942  5gallon/flush Kohler Wellworth toilet -- a proper location, if there ever was one!

DF

Methane explosions when on the bathroom phone, I hate it when that happens!  Gotta get me a 320!

Some seller must be reading along on this thread, and, well  . . .

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Rare-Western-Electric-320-Type-Rotary-Explosion-Proof-Mid-Century-Phone-/331720659671

Starting at $50 plus $40 shipping.
Title: Re: Explosive Atmosphere 320 on eBay
Post by: TelePlay on November 30, 2015, 01:37:15 AM
Just listed is a seller claimed "new" 520, a 320 with updates?

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Rare-Lucent-520B-Hazardous-Phone-Atomic-Age-Wall-Mount-Huge-27-pounds-/161902028544

Atomic age?  Don't know but it is in great condition, but a bit high in price. But, the seller does post interior images which show several things including a sealed dial and a buzzer for a ringer.