German Field Phone

As noted, each German field phone offered by Keepshooting.com is an original German military surplus item. These somewhat primitive phones were developed for field communications over distances up to one mile, and were originally designed for and used by service men and women enlisted in the German heer, or army, which is one of the five service branches that makes up the Bundeswehr, or unified armed forces of Germany.

Though we cannot confirm the issuance of any phone, their appearance, age and overall condition suggests that they were issued in some capacity. Nevertheless, each phone remains in great condition, and should prove functional when paired with a second phone and usable D batteries. However, no phone is perfect and each is likely to show some surface wear considering their age. Moreover, some metallic components may show some slight surface rust.

Each phone, produced by the former Standard Elektrik Lorenz telecommunications company in Stuttgart, Germany, is believed to have been manufactured sometime during the 1950s through 1960s, and is, as noted, reminiscent of those used during World War II. Each phone is encased in a black Bakelite case measuring approximately 10 inches by 4 1/2 inches by 6 1/2 inches that includes an external crank used to dial a second phone. Additionally, each case is adorned with several decorative plates, including one emblazoned with the International Radiotelephony Spelling Alphabet. The hinged lid opens to reveal all of the original innards, still in great condition, as well as a set of schematics on its underside. Also included under each lid is a set of detailed instructions written in German. The headset remains in excellent condition and is, presumably, functional.

One final interesting aspect regarding the German field phone is the fact that the NATO Stock Number (NSN) is printed on the manufacturer's plate, which is riveted to the side of the hinged lid. An NSN is a 13-digit numerical code that identifies all standardized materials of supply that are recognized by NATO countries. The NSN for the German field phone is 5805-12-120-4847, which identifies it as a fernsprechgeraetsat, or what I assume translates loosely to "field telephone." The "5805" identifies it as belonging to the telephone and telegraph equipment supply class, while the "12" signifies that the piece is from Germany. The remaining digits signify its item number.

Note: The German field phone is offered as a collectible only. We cannot guarantee any level of functionality.