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Antiques! => Antique Questions Forum => Topic started by: goldfishman16 on January 28, 2009, 10:16:58 AM

Title: Vintage 1918 GE Rotary Phone
Post by: goldfishman16 on January 28, 2009, 10:16:58 AM

Hi guys,

I am new to this forum and come from Singapore. 

My uncle found some antique from overseas.  I tried surfing the net to see if such a phone exist, but until now, am unable to find any info at all. 

I stumbled onto this site (beauty of the Internet) and was wondering if anyone could help me out.

I have attached some pics for your viewing.  The phone has the following info on it:

- General Electic Co.
- TEL DIAL PAT USA 141913
- Dated 1918 Property of Americam

- Manufactured under license from Armour Research
- Foundation Chicago
- Patent Pending

- Compania Enterpriana De Telefonos S.A.

I really want to know if the phone he bought is really a vintage or just a replica since he paid pretty dearly for it. If you guys have any info, please feel free to email me at goldfishman16@gmail.com

Cheers,

Edgar
+65 91896628

Title: Re: Vintage 1918 GE Rotary Phone
Post by: D&b antiques on January 28, 2009, 12:44:25 PM

it certainly look's original. but the spanish would make one think  it's not. may be one of the other guy's will drop a thought or two.

Title: Re: Vintage 1918 GE Rotary Phone
Post by: railman44 on January 28, 2009, 02:14:03 PM

If you Google 'antique phones' you'll find lots of experts dealing in old phones.  I would suggest you send those pictures and questions to a few of them.  Indicate to them if the rotary dial works/turns and, if you can, remove the bottom plate and take a picture of the guts of the phone and include it.  Lots of the value also depends on what's inside and if it's saveable.  Most of them are more than willing to help.  Your phone certainly looks genuine.  I have no clue what telephones made for the overseas markets are worth.  Let us know what you find out.

Title: Re: Vintage 1918 GE Rotary Phone
Post by: KC on January 28, 2009, 05:26:14 PM

GE did in fact do lots of work with Armour Research in the early 1900's and Bell Telephone Co.  Americam was a part of the international division...and it was not unheard of working with Mexico/South America for long distance transmissions.  So...it sounds legit so far...but agreeing with railman44 you should let some phone experts help you out.  Look for telephone museums and/or collectors forums.  Let us know what you find out! Best of luck!

Title: Re: Vintage 1918 GE Rotary Phone
Post by: goldfishman16 on January 29, 2009, 02:07:39 AM

Thanks guys. Will take your advice and send the info to other antique specialist.  Will also try to take more pics of the guts.  Will keep you guys updated of the comments from the other experts. Cheers.