September 18, 2008 -The GPO 746 - A True Retro Phone

There are many retro phones on the market today. Few, however, are as authentic as the GPO 746.

This modern take on the classic handset uses actual parts from GPO surplus stock, which have been fully refurbished to create each unique and individual new telephone. In this article we will take a look at the history of the 746 in detail and look at the reasons why it is one of the best retro phones around.

Introduced in 1967, the GPO 746 was very similar to the 700 type phone which preceded it, with the addition of a slightly different case design. The models were so similar, however, that the only way to distinguish between them was to look at the markings on the base of the unit. The lightweight, plastic instrument was produced in a range of colours including Ivory, Grey, Black, Blue, Red, Yellow and Green.

A new feature in the 746 saw the inclusion of a built-in regulator, which could not be removed. The purpose of this was to vary the amount of speech current flowing through the speaker, in order to prevent it from getting too loud.

The phone remained the standard rental unit of the GPO until the introduction of push button telephones in the 1970’s, negating the need for rotary dial handsets. The traditional phones have remained popular, however, and with that reassuring and familiar click and whirr dialling sound, they have been in demand ever since.
 
You don’t have to be old enough to remember the original model to see the merits of the GPO 746. These retro phones are for anyone who appreciates the value of quality engineering and craftsmanship, from a bygone era when products were built to stand the test of time.

Perfect for those who are looking to take a trip down memory lane, the GPO 746 is an ideal present for nostalgic loved ones. Maybe you’d like to treat yourself to a unique piece of British heritage.

There are plenty of good reasons to invest in one of these unique retro phones, not least of all because they are in such short supply. Once stock is gone, it’s gone, so don’t miss your chance to snap one up while you can!

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