Brand new and looking for keys

[blackwalnut1234]

I'm brand new to the board; just found it in the Internet where there seems to be a discussion forum for every topic under the sun!

I inherited an Edison Diamond Disc Phonograph from my Grandmother that I remember playing with when I was just 8 or 9 years old. When I got it home I discovered that there was no key to open the top. Is there a source that you folks might share that has old keys and possibly parts down the road?

Thanks for your help.

[gibsonj]

Hi

I can offer a couple of suggestions. Check out this link for a general description of various cabinet keys and application:

www.oldcrank.com/articles/keys/keys.html

Here is a source for reproduction keys:

www.victroladoctor.com/accessories.htm

I have found some variation in keys used for Diamond Disc machines (model dependent). For example, the "dolphin" key is commonly used. However, there are variations in the "dolphin" key, including length, number of cuts in the blade, etc. One of my earlier DD machines uses a single cut blade "dolphin" key, while a later DD machine uses a double cut blade "dolphin" key. So, the point is just be aware when you're searching for keys on EBAY or a parts source, you might acquire a key that doesn't work your particular lock.

Hope this helps you get started, and welcome to the forum!

John

[blackwalnut1234]

John - thanks for the leads. I've got a couple emails out and we'll see what happens.

Doug

[shellophone]

What is being referred to as a 'blade' is properly called a 'bit' by locksmiths.

[gibsonj]

I stand corrected. Thanks.

John

[maroongem]

Jun 23, 2010 23:34:52 GMT -5 shellophone said:

What is being referred to as a 'blade' is properly called a 'bit' by locksmiths.

Blade would not be an incorrect term. Bittings are the cuts in the blade that lift the levers............