1965 Automatic Electric Gold AE40 “Monophone”

Model: Y 1197 – Gold Finish (1965)

This Automatic Electric Type 40 “Monophone” (AE40) was produced by Philips Electrical Works Limited in Brockville, Ontario, and is dated 1965. While the AE40 design dates back to the late 1930s, examples like this represent later production or assembly using existing parts, often for specific contracts or refurbishment programs.

The AE40 is a self-contained desk telephone referred to as a “monophone” with all internal components housed within the base, eliminating the need for an external subset. Its distinctive Art Deco styling makes it one of the most recognizable telephone designs of its era.

Key Details:

Manufacturer: Philips Electrical Works Limited (Automatic Electric license)
Model: Y 1197 (Special-order)
Type: AE40 Monophone
Date: Modified 1965
Finish: Gold (Custom application)
Origin: Brockville, Ontario, Canada

Notes:

The “Y” model designation is not part of the typical stock coding (such as L, N, PL, or PN) seen on standard Canadian-made Philips sets. This suggests the phone was likely part of a special order, contract batch, or non-standard production run.

Gold-finished AE40 sets are uncommon and were often produced for executive use, hotels, or presentation purposes. Given the late production date and unusual model code, this example may represent a customized or contract-issued unit assembled from existing AE40 stock.

This telephone remains in original condition and reflects both its service life and decades of storage. Further research and eventual refurbishment may reveal more about its unique production background.

From The Late David Charles Collection
It originally had a blank dial disk in place.
It appears to have had a dial with a black finger ring installed.