-40%

Antique Wooden Phone - Western Electric Model 317 - tested and working

$ 79.2

Availability: 100 in stock
  • Modified Item: Yes
  • Refund will be given as: Money Back
  • Item must be returned within: 14 Days
  • Modification Description: Wired to operate on modern Bell System copper phone lines
  • Return shipping will be paid by: Buyer
  • Restocking Fee: No
  • Brand: Western Electric
  • All returns accepted: Returns Accepted
  • Time Period Manufactured: Pre-1940
  • Condition: Used
  • Country/Region of Manufacture: United States

    Description

    Western Electric Model 317 Wall Phone   Plain Front, Plain Top
    The Western Electric number 317 magneto wall phones were introduced in 1907 and remained in production for about thirty years. Although the model number remained the same, many changes were seen in the phone through the years. The 1911 catalog introduced the third version of the No. 317. While this version was slightly smaller than its predecessor, the major external difference is the absence of the decorative routing, or picture frame, around the transmitter.
    The phone I'm offering here has been wired to work on modern Bell System copper telephone lines.  I tested the phone before packing and was able to answer a call, speak and listen clearly and disconnect the call by hanging up. Incoming calls do not ring the bells.  Of course there is no dial so outbound calls cannot be made. The hand crank rings the bells.
    The receiver is Stromberg Carlson and is connected to the phone via period-correct cloth wire that I just replaced.  The transmitter is Kellogg.   Being an antique, I did not restore the phone. I simply cleaned it up leaving the vintage patina in place. I've packed it for shipping very securely. For shipping I removed the transmitter and mouthpiece and wrapped them in bubble wrap.  The transmitter is still wired to the phone it just needs to be screwed back into place.
    Please view the photos for details.
    Buyer can pickup or pay calculated shipping cost.