History of the Automatic Electric AE-80 Touch Call model

Introduction

The AE-80 Touch Call model was introduced to the public in 1964. Real AE-80 Touch Call models are relatively rare today. The Touch Call model AE-80e is probably more commonly known today, and although the original AE-80 TC model looks very similar to the AE-80e TC model, it is NOT the same. Compared to the AE-80e, real AE-80 Touch Call models have these distinguishing features:

1. The AE-80 Touch Call model has a metal base, not a plastic one like the later AE-80e.
2. The AE-80 Touch Call model has a faceplate made with fluted charcoal-colored plastic, not like the AE-80e, which had a matted paper insert that went under a plastic cover.
3. The AE-80 Touch Call model has a number card holder which also acts to hold the faceplate to the housing.

The Automatic Electric AE-80 Touch Call model bears a striking resemblance to the Western Electric 1500/2500.

Timeline

1968????

• First year of production?

1975

• Production ceased, replaced by plastic-based model AE-80e.

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