I am looking for an antique key that fits a wooden and lead glass
bookcase. The bookcase is locked. Its key is no where to be found. I
don't know if I should hunt for a key, call a locksmith to make one to
match the lock core or what. The bookcase is labeled on the back at
the top C.W.S. LTD. Cabinet Factory Radcliffe. What do you recommend?
It's locked! I need a key fast!

---

Request for Question Clarification by tutuzdad-ga on 15 Jun 2003 19:17 PDT

Where are you located? If you are only interested in the ocntents of
the case, and not of obtaining a key for future use, perhaps we can
locate a antique restoration professional that can get inside for you
without damaging it. This may involve the professional and delicate
removal and replacement of a side, back or bottom panel.

Regards;
tutuzdad-ga

I can only write from experience ... an 'expert' at losing keys.

The easiest and (actually) least expensive way to unlock your
bookshelf is to call a few local locksmiths.  They will be able to
tell you if they can do it (make new keys) or they'll refer you to the
best in the area.

The last time I had to have my car unlocked, after I lost my keys and
flew overseas, I had to fax a copy of my identificatiion (in this
case, they prefered a copy of my driver's license) to a locksmith in
California and a brief note authorizing them to create a key that my
employee could use to unlock my car.  A few years ago, it cost $75.



What did I learn from the experience?  Most locksmiths can create a
key to get into anything.  In this case, my car was very old and an
odd European model.

Hope this helps.

Becky

If your bookcase uses a skeleton key, there's probably an antiques
dealer in your area with a box of mismatched skeleton keys.  Trace the
size of the lock hole and show a dealer (or locksmith) the size.  They
may have a key that fits, if this is a skeleton key.  I have a pie
safe and a bookcase (different years, different locks) and the same
skeleton key fits both.

Best regards,
journalist-ga