Model A1, 102/B1, 202/D1
Model A1 was created by Western Electric in 1927. It was the first WE telephone to use an integrated handset, containing both a microphone and an earpiece. This allowed people to keep one hand free for the taking of notes or messages – a requirement that soon became apparent as usage increased.
On close inspection you can see that the base of the A1 is essentially the same as the 50AL candlestick. While the dial remains the same, the post was shortened, and a cradle added with a switch hook, to rest the handset upon.
The models 102 and 202 are a similar design to the A1, with a rounded base housing a prominent dial. In the Model 202 the base becomes oval shaped, but the appearance is still similar. The 102 was introduced in 1927, and the 202 in 1930. The terms 102 and 202 refer to the electrical configuration of the sets, whereas the terms B1 and D1 refer to the shapes of the bases. The handset was called the E1.
Advice for collectors
These phones are all highly collectible. They are only available in black, and the biggest determining factor of the value of the telephone is the condition it is in, rather than the scarcity of particular models.
