Vintage French Bakelite Rotary Telephone | Circa 1930s–1950s | Original Wiring & T-Type Plug
Step into the golden age of European telecommunications with this beautifully preserved vintage French rotary telephone, dating from the 1930s to 1950s. Crafted from glossy black Bakelite — the revolutionary early plastic known for its durability and Art Deco appeal — this telephone exudes timeless style and historical charm.
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A Piece of French Design & Innovation
Manufactured during the heyday of France’s Postes, Télégraphes et Téléphones (PTT) service — the nationalized body responsible for postal and telecommunication systems — this telephone reflects a period when telephony was not only a tool but a statement of elegance in the home and workplace. The “FR” insignia on the front confirms its origins, representing France Télécom or its predecessor, PTT France.
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Design & Features
Rotary dial mechanism: A satisfying, tactile alternative to digital buttons, each spin of the dial echoes the rhythm of a bygone era.
4-pronged T-type connector: An untouched and authentic feature from the original French telephone network, preserved for collectors and purists.
Gold Art Deco embellishment: Delicate scrolling patterns surround the base, adding a luxurious aesthetic that complements the phone's curved, compact silhouette.
Handset with integrated cradle switch: Designed for comfort and balance, the handset sits securely atop a classic U-shaped cradle.
Original woven fabric cord: A tactile reminder of pre-synthetic materials, adding further authenticity.
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Environment & Use
Phones like this one would have graced the halls of middle- and upper-class French households, administrative offices, and even artistic ateliers, where function met form with remarkable grace. It was not uncommon to find such pieces in homes where technology was treasured — as much for its role in social connectivity as for its visual elegance.
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In many ways, this is more than a communication device: it is a statement piece, a slice of 20th-century life that tells the story of European modernism, domestic culture, and technological optimism.
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Condition
This particular piece is in excellent vintage condition, with only minor signs of age and gentle surface wear in keeping with its history. The Bakelite casing remains intact, and the original wiring, plug, and dial are all present. This phone has not been altered or adapted, preserving its original French PTT 4-prong plug — perfect for display, prop use, or historical preservation.
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Dimensions: Approx. 20 cm (L) x 13 cm (W) x 16 cm (H)
Weight: Substantial, typical of Bakelite construction
Country of Origin: France
Period: Estimated 1930s–1950s
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Whether you're a lover of vintage technology, a collector of European design, or a curator of authentic interiors, this French rotary telephone makes for a spectacular conversation piece — quite literally.