Preliminary identification
Photo reference
3 uploaded photos
Overview
The 'workhorse' of mid-century communication, this iconic Model 302 was designed by the legendary industrial designer Henry Dreyfuss. It was the first widely used phone to house the ringer and mechanical components entirely within the base, creating a sleek, unified silhouette.
Story
Henry Dreyfuss spent years measuring thousands of faces to ensure the handset was perfectly ergonomic. This specific model became a Hollywood star, appearing in almost every noir film of the 1940s. It represents a time when phones were leased, not owned, built to last for decades.
Maker / Origin
Western Electric was the manufacturing arm of AT&T, known for over-engineering products to withstand extreme use. Designer Henry Dreyfuss was a pioneer of 'human engineering,' believing that machines should be designed around the person, not the other way around.
Condition & Value
The phone shows significant surface dust and some oxidation on the center dial nut. The coiled cord appears to be a later replacement, as the original 302s typically featured straight cloth-covered cords. Surface wear is consistent with age and reduces value by approximately 20% compared to mint examples.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.