Vintage Western Electric Bell System Operator Headset 1962 Shadow Box Display

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DESCRIPTION

Very cool piece of vintage telecommunications history featuring a Western Electric/Bell System operator-style headset mounted in a deep glass-front shadow box.

The handmade backdrop appears to be constructed from vintage telephone/switchboard designation strips and includes numerous Texas Panhandle place names including Hereford, Canyon, Wildorado, Stinnett, Stratford, Miami and others.

Details:

* Western Electric markings visible on headset components

* Period wired operator/switchboard-style headset with dual-prong plug

* Receiver component is marked 2-62, dating that component to February 1962

* Colorful vintage telecommunications designation-strip backdrop

* Deep black glass-front shadow box

* Headset is secured to the backing but can be accessed by removing the rear panel

* Approximately 11” tall as shown in photos

* Weight approximately 3 lb 5 oz

* Untested and sold as a vintage display/collectible

The exact history of the assembled display is unknown. It appears to have been handmade using genuine period telecommunications equipment and materials, possibly as a commemorative or personal display. No attempt has been made to assign a specific Bell facility or employee without documentation.

Vintage condition with age-related wear, oxidation, scratches and other signs of use to the headset and components. Shadow box also shows normal handling/display wear. Please see photos closely for condition and construction details.

A genuinely unusual piece of Bell System/telephone history that displays extremely well.

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