Just look at this. A cutting edge communications device from an alternative 1950. But designed and fabricated by a person on their workbench, like the raddest cyberpunk street tech.
The creator, Justine Haupt, actually sells them in kit form. But watching her guided build instruction video makes me think it's a little beyond my skill level with a soldering iron.
Actually, this (hour long!) build video is really worth watching. Not only does it detail the creator's design philosophy, she's also really good at explaining the history of her design and the reasons behind many decisions.