Köhler watchcase receiver
Date: circa 1892
Inventory Number: 8098c
Classification: Telephone
Dimensions:without cord: 5.9 × 5.9 × 3.5 cm (2 5/16 × 2 5/16 × 1 3/8 in.)
Accessories: Ivory signaling rattle
DescriptionA telephone receiver known as a "watchcase" style for its compact shape. The receiver is a short, nickel-plated steel cylinder. One end of the cylinder is entirely covered by a moulded dish-shaped earpiece with a circular opening in the base of the dish. Through the opening a diaphragm can be seen.
The other end of the cylinder is metal, with an inscription and company name inscribed in the center, below a metal brad flush with the end plate. A hard rubber bumper ring, scored along its length, runs around the edge of the end, forming a decorative raised lip.
Three lengths of brown cloth-covered cords emerge from an opening on the side of the cylinder, held together by an ivory collar. Two are electrical cords, which each terminate in a metal-tipped pin plug. One is a cloth cord which secures an ivory signaling rattle to the receiver. The rattle has a handle with a small knob at one end and a slightly larger knob at the other end, used to knock on the diaphragm to signal the other party that a telephone connection is desired.
The side of the receiver cylinder has a swatch of tan paint with the letters, "CARNEGIE / GC E788D" printed on it in black.
In the center of the back of the case is stamped, "FRITZ KÖHLER LEIPZIG GERMANY" and a manufacturer's mark of an entwined letter design.