John Wilkes Birmingham Cavalier Detector Lock example, auctioned 2023

[Huw Eastwood]

Just seen that an example of the iconic 'Cavalier' detector lock was auctioned in October 2023, with a final hammer price of £7,000 GBP. It had a pre-sale estimate of £7-10k, although presumably the estimates and the final price was plus the usual premiums/taxes etc.
I wont add pictures as all are copyrighted to the relevant auction houses (Tennant's & Sotheby's)and, the locks have featured in just about every book and collector's publication out there.

Many will be familiar with them- the classic iron and brass rim lock with the cavalier's leg raising to reveal the keyhole and his staff acting as a pointer on the counter dial. Moving his hat locks the outer knob. Wilkes' original lock i think was attributed to around 1680- classic early example of the lock makers art.

[Doug MacQueen]

I was unaware that copies of that lock have been made, but then again it is so unique in its design I am not surprised it was copied. Sure wish I had a spare $10,000 around as I would be the current owner.