Description
DESCRIPTION
Vintage Australian 300 Series Black Bakelite Rotary Dial Desk Telephone
This substantial vintage Australian desk telephone features a classic black Bakelite-style body, matching handset, metal rotary dial and an aged telephone-number card.
The familiar sculptural design is consistent with Australian 300 Series and Telephone No. 332-style telephones used during the middle decades of the twentieth century. Its curved handset, weighty construction and traditional rotary dial give it the distinctive appearance associated with early Australian home and office telephones.
Identification and markings
The metal underside is marked:
TELE. AUTO. D.A.
S 30247
This wording has been recorded exactly as it appears. The number is believed to be an identification, inventory or serial marking and has not been confirmed as the telephone’s model number.
The overall design is consistent with the Australian 300 Series telephone family. It is therefore described as a 300 Series-style telephone rather than being attributed to an exact model without further internal identification.
Dial and telephone-number card
The dial retains an aged paper card reading:
AREA CODE 03
241 3893
Telephone-number cards were replaceable and were often updated during a telephone’s working life. The number card should therefore not be used by itself to determine when the telephone was manufactured.
Display and collecting appeal
Black Bakelite rotary telephones are admired for their substantial construction, mechanical character and strong association with Australian domestic and communications history.
This example would make an appealing addition to a vintage telephone collection, mid-century interior, office display, photographic setting, theatre production or film-prop collection.
Measurements
Approximately 25 cm wide × 20 cm deep × 14 cm high
Weight
Approximately 2,423 g
Condition
Presented in great vintage cosmetic condition with general surface marks, light scratches, dial wear and age-related discolouration consistent with previous use.
The telephone-number card shows staining and wear. The cord also displays age-related marking. These details have been retained as part of the telephone’s vintage character.
Please examine the photographs carefully as they form an important part of the condition description.
Testing and modern compatibility
The telephone has not been connected to a telephone service or tested. Its dialling, ringing, transmitting and receiving functions are therefore unknown.
Compatibility with current Australian NBN, modem and internet-based telephone services has not been established. A suitable connection, rewiring or pulse-to-tone converter may be required if the telephone is intended for use.
It is offered as an untested vintage collectable and decorative display item.
About TMC Emporium
TMC Emporium offers an evolving collection of vintage, collectable and decorative items sourced throughout Melbourne and regional Victoria. Each item is individually photographed and described, with care taken to accurately represent its condition.
Please browse our other listings to discover more vintage and collectable treasures.
TMCEJC-0000086 C
