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Mechanical Doorbells

Mechanical Doorbells: Bringing the Old Into the New.

Mechanical doorbells got their start during the early Victorian era, and though we have moved on to more technologically advanced pieces, these charming bits of history still hold a place in the hearts of those with a fascination for old fashioned architectural accessories, and the people who like to add interesting bits of unusual style to their homes.

What makes mechanical doorbells such delightful pieces is their simplicity. These doorbells do not run on electricity, but are simply a bell on the inside of the door attached to a lever on the outside. The external handles vary from a twist handle (which tends to sound similar to a bicycle bell), and a push lever, which has a stronger, singular tone.

Most of these unique historic pieces are made of a heavy brass. Although you can find a style that is simple, you will find many more that are intricate in design. The lever designs are almost always elaborately fashioned; you will generally find them in golden hues, with complex scroll work patterns, or leaf and flower etchings. These ornamental outlines extended to the twist handle (or rotary) styles as well. However, they also included fun touches such as bold geometrical patterns, words sayings things like, “turn here,” and occasionally an animal bust. The twist handle design can also be done in a simpler fashion; these are generally smooth and sleek, and look similar to a vertically placed inn bell. This style, as well as the more elaborate counterpart, can be seen in a golden tint as well as silver, bronze and a patina copper.

When it comes to choosing this style of doorbell for your home, it is important to know exactly what you are looking for, and how much you would like to spend. Do you want an antique, or a reproduction? Will it be a showpiece, or something functional as well as stylish? Whether they are antique or reproductions, these doorbells are relatively inexpensive; the antiques ranging from $100 to $20 dollars depending on size and quality; the reproductions generally cost between $70 and $15 dollars. The originals tend to be made of studier material; however, due to their advanced age, they may require some repairs. On the other hand, reproductions are usually made of fine quality materials that will last a while, but they are not usually as heavy, and you may not find pieces that are as ornate as the originals.

Whether using them as a functional piece, or for purely aesthetic purposes, mechanical doorbells are certain to add a bit of old fashioned flair to your home.