A pair of Mid century bell system rotary dial desk telephones by Western Electric. Model 500 CD. The plastic corps in black and pink shades. Each is marked with an impressed stamp. Circa: 1950s to 1960s. The Western Electric Company was an American electrical engineering and manufacturing company officially founded in 1869. A wholly owned subsidiary of AT and T for most of its lifespan, it served as the primary equipment manufacturer, supplier, and purchasing agent for the Bell System from 1881 to 1984. Vintage and Mid century Bell System Desk Telephones For Collectors.