3-011-439 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

The International Exhibition: Chubbs' safe, 1862. '...a large door-lock...an elegant specimen of modem metal-work...we have preferred engraving the interior, in order to display its working parts, which are, as far as practicable, wrought in corresponding style with the exterior ornament. It contains eight separate and distinct tumblers, all of which must be lifted simultaneously and exactly to their respective varying heights, which can only done by the true key, before the bolt will move. Should it be attempted by a pick, or false key, the peculiar feature of Chubb's lock known as the "detector" is brought into action, and detains one of the overlifted tumblers in such a manner that the lock cannot be opened by the true key when next applied. Hence it is technically termed "detected;" but a simple reverse turn of the right key, and of that only, will again set it in working order. Chubb's locks were chosen by her Majesty's commissioners for securing all the entrances and principal doors of communication in the Exhibition building itself, for which purpose a large number were supplied and have well answered the desired end of protecting from robbery the invaluable collection confided to the care of the executive'. From "Illustrated London News", 1862.