I own an advertising specialty company - now in our 47th year I am happy to report - and worked in the industry for many years prior to establishing my own firm. For many years my best client was what was formerly known as "The Bell System". Of course after divestiture, it was broken up into what was generally called the "Baby Bells" - and later morphed into many variations.
So over the years we worked very closely with Western Electric, AT&T, Southern Bell, BellSouth, Lucent Technologies, OFS, Avaya, etc. I collected many over-run samples, one-or-a-kind spec samples, and the likes.
I am now selling much of that collection via eBay. Here are five over-run samples from orders I sold AT&T in the 1990's. None have ever been used, and are in virtually as new condition. For all of these years they have been kept in closed containers in one of our climate controlled sample rooms.
And here is what the fortunate buyer will receive:
A. Ozburn-Janesville Corporation was a most interesting company. It was founded in Janesville, WI by Robert Ozburn. Mr. Ozburn was once an executive with Parker Pen Company, also located in Janesville, before he started his business. In fact, he maintained a loose relationship with Parker, and even used their famous "arrow Clip" with some of his products. I knew Bob, and a very interesting gentleman he was.
Among his product mix was this useful item he called "Time & Worksavers". The trio set consisted of:
* A Mini-Fix screwdriver set with three tools / two size screwdrivers and a punch.
* Coupons were prominent at the time, as this kit is from the 1980's. Here is a functioning "Clipit" to make clipping them a cinch.
* Letter opener, with a sharp blade that could also e used for other needs.
All are nicely gift packaged in a two piece presentation box. Bob, being a parotitic gentleman, made the trip in Red, White & Blue. Made in the U.S.A., Janesville, WI to be specific.
B. Lufkin was a well known U.S. made tool supplier, especially of tape measures. Here is an over-run sample of an order sold to AT&T Network Systems for a 6' retracting tape. U.S.A. made and gift packaged.
C. We had a supplier who specialized in aluminum products for the industry. Here is another very useful piece -
The extruded aluminum bar has special glass marbles to hold and easily remove papers. The back has adhesive strips for mounting. It is 12" long with AT&T logo in blue. Also made in the U.S.A. Boxed.
D. The note holder is also in aluminum, but manufactured by a different supplier - Alumaline. It had two tiered compartments to hold mail, paper, etc. The AT&T logo is actually stamped and color filled in black for permanency. It is 3.75" x 3.25", and boxed. Also made in America.
E. The last item is a one-of-a-kind speculative sample that i never sold to AT&T, and here is the story /
Each year we splurged and took the family for an international vacation, generally to Europe - although we have taken them to Asia, Africa, Australia, etc. as well. We firmly believe travel and experiencing other cultures is a positive factor in life. Also makes one realize that the U.S.A. is a wonderful home, in spite of issues.
But back to this crystal jewel - As we traveled Europe, in each country we purchased Swarovski crystal pieces that had the country name or symbol on the flat bottom. These are now beautifully displayed in a curio cabinet in the foyer. After one European journey, I found a supplier who made custom crystal pieces similar to Swarovski. I commissioned them to make a one-of-a-kind speculative sample with the AT&T logo in black - and here is that piece. The size is approx. 1.25", slightly smaller than the ones we purchased in Europe, but very striking. Although I showed it to several AT&T customers, I could never find the right occasion and buyer to sell the idea, hence, this is the only one in existence!
So here are a variety of unusual AT&T logoed gifts. As mentioned, none have ever been used, and in outstanding condition! And all made in America!!! How rare!
An excellent addition to anyone who worked at AT&T or collects old Bell System memorabilia. A very rare find for sure.
From a smoke-free, pet-free, climate controlled environment.
Only $40.00 for everything !!! Plus, you will also receive several free telecommunications advertising samples AND a hand-drawn in ink personalized "Thank You" cartoon note!
I have many telephone related items listed and will be listing more - along with other old advertising pieces.
With 1750+ feedback's and 100% positive responses, and being a "Power Seller", you can buy from me with confidence! For my international buyers, contact me for details.
Thanks for looking...