Design and Features: The Model 500, designed by Henry Dreyfuss, became the standard for telephones in the mid-20th century. It improved upon earlier models by having all operational parts mounted on the base plate, making it easier to service.
Production and Popularity: Introduced in 1949, it was produced for decades and was widely used in homes across the world, even after the breakup of the AT&T monopoly in 1984.
Availability: While originally only available in black, the Model 500 later came in a variety of colors, and the metal fingerwheel was replaced with a clear plastic one.