Københavns Telefon AktieSelskab (KTAS) D30 Rotary Dial Desk Telephone; Copenhagen Telephone Co. Ltd.

KTAS D30
 
Introduced in 1931 by Telefon Fabrik Automatic København the D30 was exclusively used by the Københavns Telefon AktieSelskab (K.T.A.S.) a few remaining in service until the 1980s.
In the early 1950s Copenhagen used a 'semi-automatic' switching system. Subscribers dialled the first two letters of the exchange name then asked an operator for the number they wanted. These exchanges were known as 'D-Centrals' from the Danish: 'demiautomatiske telefoncentraler', hence 'D30'; similar sets used outside the Copenhagen semi-automatic area were designated FH30 or “hel telefon” meaning 'whole telephone'.
The ringer is unusual for its time as it has only a single, exposed gong, placed below the cradle.
Another unusual feature of the D30 is its call meter. These were provided on party ('shared-service') lines.

The dial is mechanically similar to the British Post Office No 10 Dial. However, the enamelled copper number-plate is set into the fingerplate, mounted on a spring which pushes it against the top of the assembly until being pushed down by the user's finger.


Most D30s were plain black, a few were white, still fewer were chromed. All had Bakelite handsets. However, in the 1970's KTAS began exporting recovered sets in large numbers; many of these were colourfully repainted, or even copper or chrome plated, some were fitted with older-style cradles and/or handsets and/or US dials and various gaudy decorations.
D30s in good original condition can be found regularly on online auction sites for reasonable prices. They are fairly robust and reliable. But weak spots are the zinc alloy cradle mounting which can crack, especially if the set is carried using the cradle, and the dial which may need disassembly, cleaning and no more than four small drops of sewing machine oil.

With thanks to:
https://telefon.qvotrup.dk/tfa-d30-fh...
https://www.classicrotaryphones.com
https://www.britishtelephones.com
https://www.matilo.eu
https://app.hume.ai