Vintage GPO 746 Rotary Dial Desk Telephone
This lot is a vintage GPO 746 rotary dial desk telephone in a cream finish. The GPO name refers to the General Post Office, which was responsible for telecommunications in the United Kingdom for much of the twentieth century. The 746 model is offered here as a classic example of a rotary dial desk set.
The telephone has a compact, rounded-square base with a raised circular dial area set into the upper surface. The clear rotary dial plate displays the numerals 0 to 9 printed in black, with finger holes for each digit and a central blue hub. A curved cream handset rests in a cradle at the rear, connected to the base by a light grey coiled cord. The simple, functional styling is typical of the period and reflects the standard domestic telephones commonly found in British homes and offices.
Condition and Collectability
The telephone shows general signs of age and use. Light surface marks and scuffs are visible to the body, and a fine line or crack can be seen to the lower front edge of the base. The clear dial plate, the handset and the grey cord are present. The lot is offered as seen, and the buyer should satisfy themselves regarding its condition before bidding.
Its original cream colourway, rotary dial and GPO heritage make it of interest to collectors of vintage British telephones, retro office and home equipment, and period decorative pieces. It would also suit those looking to display a nostalgic desk piece in a home or workspace.
