"The Phantom" glow-in-the-dark electric light switch

"The Phantom" glow-in-the-dark electric light switch, about 1955. Part of the Bob Gray collection of electrical objects. Rounded rectangular white thermosetting plastic base with brown bakelite cover. Rocker switch to centre with integral luminescent button.

This light switch has a futuristic shape, made during the peak of the Space Race, it has a distinct modernist design. The centre of the switch features a small glow-in-the-dark panel designed to allow it to be visible at night. Glow-in-the-dark (fluorescent/radioactive) powders were largely developed for various military uses. These powders, which had unknown health effects, briefly became popular in household products.