Found item in box of phonograph parts, don't know what it is.

[jboger]

I bought a box of phonograph parts, mostly junk. This item (see photos) was in the box. I have no idea what it is or if it is even for phonographs. It was made by Western Electric. The round button on the side can be depressed. Does anyone have an idea what it is?

John

[DanP58]

Looks like maybe an old microphone or phone part??

[MarkELynch]

I always enjoy these searches but often wonder why the poster does not at least spend a few minutes trying to locate the answer and then inform the rest of us!

There is clearly a maker, Western Electric, and a number molded into the back of this part. My hunch was that this was either a part number or, since the number was preceded with a ‘D’ that it might refer to a US Design Patent.

The Design Patent can be accessed on-line now, no need to travel to Crystal City VA any longer. Here is the link.

https://www.uspto.gov/patents/search/pa ... lic-search

The Google search was more productive and shows that this is part of a WWII era telephone set. It took only moments to find this.

https://www.worthpoint.com/worthopedia/ ... 1844721967

I would like to encourage all of us to do some research before asking others for help and then to share the results of your research.

Happy New Year,
Mark

[jboger]

Well, Mike, since I provided the opportunity to chastise those who don't do their own research, let me respond. I found an item in a box, didn't know what it was, and had an impulse to post it to see if anyone knew. People could possibly have fun speculating, or find it interesting to see what turned up in a box, or if they knew have the enjoyment of sharing their information. People can choose either to respond or not.

Nor does my question mean I never do research first before writing a post. Recently I helped identify some names on the back of a mid-19th C clock on the NAWCC forum. I don't own the clock. I may have gotten around to identifying this tem. The way I see it, people can write a "What's this? post if they choose. Or they can research something beforehand. Either way it's a friendly forum. Why chastise someone for not following your procedure?

One last thing: I'm trying to understand your issue. Do you feel that by posting a "What's this?" question I'm taking advantage of other people's knowledge and experience? Is that the issue? Remember, people have a choice to respond or not. And many people like to share what they know.

That's all I have to say. I don't like to perpetuate these sorts of things. But I wouldn't want to put a chill on anyone who wants to post a "What's this?" question on this or any other forum. People enjoy the dialogue. And I'm sure, Mike, many people appreciate the info you provided. I certainly do.

John

[PeterF]

As does, I’m sure, Mark.

[jboger]

Sorry, Mark. Didn't mean to get your name wrong. My mistake.

John

[Frisco The Beagle]

This is a perfect example of one aspect of this forum that I really appreciate! A member explains how they research an item - i.e., what clues are used and where to look. Another tool in the tool box for us novices! Plus, who doesn't love an answer to a "what's this" mystery! Thank you both!