GBC Bates List Finder

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While it may not be the face that launched a thousand ships, it is the product that launched Office Graveyard. The list finder is one of those items that we were sad to see go. While there may have been others out there, the Rolodex, the Autodex, and various other competitors, they just weren't the same. If you still have one, then you're in luck! Or, if you've found one at a tag sale or on eBay. All you can do is hope that the previous owner had the foresight to write in pencil.

On any given day, there are approximately a dozen on eBay. I have found that you can find them be searching for the following words: list finder, listfinder, gbc bates, telephone directory, pop-up telephone index, etc.



While previously loved units are easier to find, unused and new items are worth their weight in gold, on average selling for $70-$125 each. Refills are also very rare, so it may be beneficial to buy one simply for the cards.

To help you with your quest, here is a description from our catalog explaining the differences between the various models and the refills associated with each. This data is circa 1998, so earlier models, colors, and information are likely available.

GBC Bates Director:

• All metal construction with lustrous plastic trim. Matching telephone colors. Includes extra wide cards, memo pad in base and area code card. Space for 1,300 entries.
• Available colors: Beige (GBC 9828821), Brown (GBC 9828822), Black (GBC 9828823), Burgundy (GBC 9828821)
• Refill: GBC 9828394

GBC Bates Classic:

• Features durable metal construction, wide cards, memo pad in base. Space to record 1,300 names, phone numbers and addresses.
• Available colors: Walnut with Brushed Brass Trim (GBC 9828960)
• Refill: GBC 9828394

GBC Bates Model 2000:

• A sleek, low profile and horizontal, alphabetic indicator give modern styling to desktop decor. Wide lined card with space for over 800 listings.
• Available colors: Black (GBC 9839942)
• Refill: GBC 9828689

GBC Bates Designer:

• Features a sleek, contemporary design at an affordable price. Space for 1,380 entries.
• Available colors: Black (GBC 9819018)
• Refill: GBC 9819018

GBC Bates Pencilist:

• Unique list finder with easily available pencil. All-metal construction in popular finishes. space for 1,350 listings.
• Available colors: Walnut with Black Trim (GBC 9819808), Walnut with Brown Trim (GBC 9819809)
  
• Refill: GBC 9819018

GBC Bates Secretary:

• Handsome telephone index at an economical price. Space for 1,350 entries. Sturdy metal construction.
• Available colors: Black (GBC 9819813), Burgundy (GBC 9819865)
• Refill: GBC 9819654