All BPO equipment is marked in some way and these markings
greatly assist in identification. Even small components are generally marked and these
markings will ascertain whether the whole item is in fact genuine.
In most cases the markings consist of a description i.e. Tele 232, followed by a
manufactures code, followed by a year.
i.e. 1/232L S55 would be a Telephone No 1/232L, made by Siemens in 1955.
Inside the phone you should see a circuit diagram that should confirm the number
on the telephone base.
There will almost certainly be a blue stamp near these markings and this would be the GPO quality assurance stamp.
Sometimes these are stamped on a white painted area (the paint covers old stampings).
On wooden apparatus and Candlestick telephones you may find a number crossed out and
another number stamped on. Latter equipment may have a plastic sticker, with the
description on, covering the old description. This is where the apparatus went back to the
factory for repair or was made into a different item.
i.e. No. 150 crossed out and No. 156 stamped next to it.
Want to find a telephone but are completely confused - then follow this link
BUYER BEWARE
Some telephone items are reproductions and very good ones at that! It has been noted that
some reproductions even have numbers crossed out to make them look more authentic.
| BACK | Home page | BT/GPO Telephones | A - Z Index | Glossary of Telecom Terminology | Quick Find | All Telephone Systems |
FM