Unique Double-handed Plate Latch 8 5/8" x 2 3/4"- ca. early 1900s

This very unique plate latch does not use a separate spring or gravity to return the latch bar to its resting place, but features a flexible latch bar, affixed at one end, that bends and lifts with a rotation of the knobs. This design experimented with three technical advances away from the action of thumblatches. The latchbar and guide are mounted on a portable plate, thus easing installation. Also, the spindle connecting the two knobs passes through a cam mounted in the plate, causing any rotational motion of a knob to translate into vertical motion of the latch bar. Finally, the spring-steel latchbar returns to rest regardless of orientation, thus making the latch reversible.

This plate is  8 1/4" x 2 1/2, and a recently-made keeper is available for an additional $35.

Although tiny Georgian brass knobs are available and correct ($70/pr) when paired with a recently made Georgian-style rosette ($30), any combination of knobs and exterior trims can be used. Shop for "Parts and Components" in the Three Centuries of Hardware" dropdown menu.