LOCKS AND KEYS

Rim Locks

CARPENTER RIM LOCK complete with key

This is one of the original Carpenter Rim Locks which I have acquired and fitted into every door in our cottage.
These were made in England and exported all over the world, particularly to Australia and America, where they are still much sought after and can command high prices.

An identical lock to this one was listed at over $800 AUD in December, 2003, in an American hardware list.
This lock was made between 1830 and 1837, as verified by the brass medallion shown in Photo 2, which has 'W & R' either side of the British Coat of Arms.  This stands for William Rex, or in normal language, 'William is King'.  This refers to King William 4th, uncle of Queen Victoria.
Also displayed on the medallion is 'No.60 JAs CARPENTER PATENTEE'.

This lock, like all Carpenter Rim Locks, is non-reversible, being left hand only.
It can take some time to marry 'keeps' and keys and handles when making up sets, by buying parts rather than complete items.