Kromer Convar keys

[Doug MacQueen]

Thanks Alan, I will check out UELS MBA couldn't help and I really don't want to make them from scratch if I don't have to. Doug

[Ant]

Hello Alan Is this a Changeable key lock? Like the one that Tann produced some many years ago I have never seen one of these Kromer ones but the Tann one was only single bit type. or is my memory going !!!

[Alan Morgan]

The operation is similar to the Ratner key changeable lock. Not sure if there are pictures on here if you search

[Doug MacQueen]

From what I have found Theodor Kromer patented his Protector in the 1870's. He is supposed to have worked for lock company here in the States prior to that time. The changeable style that is used on the Kromer Convar, Ratner, Chatwood and others, dates back into the mid 1800's, at least here in the US. A 1864 MacNeale patented combination lock is the clearest example but the idea go back even further. Doug

[Doug MacQueen]

Here are a couple patents. The 1864 MacNeale isn't as clear as the William Hall of 1865. Doug

[Ant]

So we will settle for Kromer then? Interesting subject though I have seen the keys and locks for these later 40/50s ones but never had the need to strip one down.