Kleiner klappenschrank zu 10 leitungen

A Kleiner Klappenschrank (small switchboard) is a German military communication device, specifically a manually operated 10-line switchboard (full name: Kleiner Klappenschrank zu 10 Leitungen). It was used, among others, by the Wehrmacht during World War II, to connect field telephones to each other and sometimes to public telephone networks.
It had connections for up to 10 separate telephone lines. It was an "OB" (Offline Batterie/Local Battery) system, meaning that each connected telephone had its own power source (battery) for signaling. Connections were manually established by an operator using patch cords, and a "klap" (a signaling plate that dropped down) indicated that a line had incoming signals.

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A kleiner klappenschrank as used in (field) command posts and communication bunkers. Made in 1942 by the firm Gros & Graf from Berlin. Complete with the 10 switching cords for connecting subscribers. The upper section is well maker marked, dated 1942 with WaA. The lower station has an identification label from the manufacturer, production year 1942 and serial number. WaA stamp under "TROP" which stands for TROPEN as to indicate this device could be used under tropical conditions. The device has not been tested, but I don't see why it should not work. It weighs nearly 8 KG. A very nice set in a good condition.