1977 Northern Telecom Alexander Graham Plane Early Pre-Production Field Trial Prototype.

A low-production of 1000 phones or less built in 1977 on temporary soft
aluminum tooling line before full production changes were made.

Designed by BNR Industrial Designers Cliff Read & John F. Tyson.

As Received August 30th 2025
This early version was from Cliff’s personal collection.

This early sample differs from production models:

• Single switch hook plunger vs. dual
• No number card window
• No counterbalance weights in the tail
• Unmarked lower body
• Glossy paper dial card vs production matte paper
• Lower front body moulding fitment off

Canadian Patent # 42979 July 20th 1977.
All the parts are original and are date-matched:

• Dial: 1977
• Handset (upper & lower): 1977
• Handset cord: 1977
• Transmitter: May 10, 1977
• Receiver: May 11, 1977
• Ringer: May 1977
• Network: 1977
• Line cord: 1976

Dismantled

Pre-Production Dates

Cleaned and Refurbished

Cliff Read signing the Alexander Graham Plane November 04th 2025

Canadian and USA Patent for the Northern Telecom
1977 Alexander Graham Plane Phone.

1977 Pre-production Field Trial / Prototype
VS
1979 Final Production Model

Gloss VS Matte

Fit and Fitment