As part of the project, we are replacing some doors. With new doors we concluded new hardware was appropriate. Looking at what was available in the Big Box stores left us wanting.
In our research, we came across a store, coincidently named the Door Store, that sells antique and replica door knobs. Relatively, many of these knobs are works of art. We choose a set of bronze knobs with a simple, classic design.
It is clear they are from a different period with different standards. Unlike the knobs of today, which use a standard 2 1/8″ bore hole, these use a 1/2″ bore hole.
The Federal Specification for Locks and Door Trim, including exit devices, was number FF-H00106 and was first published in 1933, with updates in 1948 and 1963. Prior to that date, there were no Builders Hardware Standards. As a result, each lock manufacturer had its own door lock cutout dimensions, its own finish description and so forth [1, see also FF-H-106C/GEN].
Thus I expect these knobs are from some period prior to 1933.
Unlike current technology, where the front rosette bolts into the back rosette thus clamping the door in between, these knobs are fastened to the door with screws through the rosette. I expect these will be less durable, but form trumps function.
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