sundance-communications.com/forum Forums Other TDM Phone Systems 1A2 and Comkey Telephones & Systems Smooth faceplates passing light from keys

All,
Just a random question. I have 2 2565 sets with the early non opaque smooth pinstriped faceplates. Unlike the solid plastic faceplates that you find more commonly these are clear plastic with a color coat on the back so when the keystrip lights are on the light passes through the faceplate and outlines various things in the set like the keypad.

Did phones with these sets originally have some sort of blocking insert or something to keep the light from passing through?

Just wondering...

"Did phones with these sets originally have some sort of blocking insert...?"

No.

BTW, the phones with the ribbed faceplates are much more desirable to collectors than phones with the later opaque ones.

Originally, the faceplates were all charcoal gray, then they began to be issued in the muted colors that complement the housings.

Even though the very early phones had the gray faceplates, they are in less demand than the ones with the various colors.

Any phone with a 10-button dial (type 25) rather than the 12-button dial (type 35) is more sought after, regardless of the faceplate color.

Thanks Arthur,
That is very interesting about the evolution.
I got a yellow non modular 2565 that had the smooth face and really liked it. I have the blue one and a green one too so I guess I have cornered the market.

I don't think I have ever seen a 10 button set in either the key or regular desk sets around here. mountain bell was pretty late in rolling out touchtone in Idaho. We didn't get it in Sun Valley until 1978 or 1979 so virtually everything is that mid to late 70s vintage