Rim locks are also known as box locks. They use a two level mechanism for operation, and while not the most secure type of lock, they have been in use for centuries. In fact, they were one of the first locking devices made. They were originally crafted in Britain and Europe. Production began in the United States in around the 1830’s.
The rim lock is rectangular in looks, which is where the name ‘box lock’ was derived. The first locks were fairly simply made. They are mounted on the inside of a door, with a handle and keyhole also mounted on the outer side of the door. Earlier locks were often intricately designed, thus from the earliest times they were considered decorative as well as helpful for providing some security to home owners.
Earlier locks were made from metals such as brass, wrought iron and bronze. The more popular locks were those made from brass and wrought iron, and they were the ones that were frequently imported from England and Europe.
These locks underwent many changes during the years, dwindling in popularity during the late 1800’s and till they became popular again during the 1930’s. The decorative appeal of the locks changed much, as fashion and demand dictated. Frequently they sported decorative designs on the face of the lock as well as decoratively made handles.
The handle is often the most highly decorated, with some being small, smooth round knobs and others being an actual handle. The knobs or handles were often made from the same metal as the lock itself, or were fashioned from glass or porcelain. For example, the popular Victorian rim lock was often made from brass with porcelain door knobs, and included a keyhole cover.
Again, while not very secure, they remain a very decorative lock that can add a charming ‘old-style’ appeal to any home, whether they are installed on inner doors, or external doors.
These locks may also be known as surface deadbolts and are positioned independent of the door knob. They can be made with a double or single cylinder design with the difference between the two types being that the single rim lock accepts a key from only one side while the double cylinder will allow the key from both.
These types of locks can be used as a decorative feature for the door with many antique locks available to give the door an old-style look. Similarly the newer rim locks made of polished brass can achieve a more modern look that invites the visitor in with the promise of a shiny clean interior within.