"Bakelite®": The greatest discovery of the late 19th century

In 1909, the Belgian-born American chemist Leo Baekeland developed the first synthetic polymer in industrial history, which he registered under the brand name "Bakelite®". Lightweight, resistant to heat and many chemicals, this new polymer proved to be an excellent insulator, and was adopted by the electrical construction industry. It was also the first thermosetting plastic to be used in a wide range of industrial applications, from the manufacture of radio and telephone casings to jewellery and toys. With its lacquered appearance, it became the favourite material of household appliance designers.

In 1930, the Swedish company Ericsson commissioned the Norwegian artist Jean Heiberg to design the shape of the first telephone in "Bakelite®", in order to mass-produce a communications tool that until then had been reserved for a wealthy clientele. It was made to last: unbreakable, indefatigable, with no batteries or other accessories, it would never break down.  
It was initially offered in a black version, and a few years later a luxury "ivory white" version was launched.

For a long time now, the famous thermoplastic has been supplanted by new plastics that are lighter, easier to manufacture, more efficient and more colourful... But to the delight of nostalgics, design lovers and those disappointed by high-tech devices, these phones with a retro chic look are making a comeback. Now considered a cult item, good old "Bakelite®" phones are enjoying a second life as collectors' items.