I want to provide an update on the latest about my Corbin pancake lock. First, let me thank all the antique-locks.com members who replied to me thread. Your comments, however small are greatly appreciated. Because I am not a locksmith and only recently became capable of SPP’ing my way out of a wet paper bag (breaking 3 nice picks in the process), I appreciate having a place to go wear most the members know more than I do. You all seem to have your specialties; the more I learn, the more I realize that I haven’t learned even a fraction of what I’d like to.
I would especially like to thank all of you who pointed me towards Lauren Arndt. After seeing some excerpts from his book, I realized that not only did I want a copy of his book ( The Extreme Padlock Collector) , but maybe, just maybe, if I explained my situation, Lauren might be able to make a key for the lock. He certainly was the real deal. At one point I had considered trying to learn to pick these pancake locks myself. But given the number of picks and locks I broke just to gain some minor ability with pin tumbler locks, it seemed extremely unwise to use the Corbin as my practice/learning lock. I’ve got a whole box of cheap pancake locks that would be much better for learning. The more I thought about it, the more I knew Lauren was who I wanted to do this - if he would consider doing it and if I could afford what he would ask for doing the job. I decided it was worth approaching him. The worst that could happen would be he would say that he was not interested in doing the work.
We ended up speaking by phone and I found myself instantly at ease. He wanted to make sure I was aware that there are no guarantees with old locks. While the photos I posted showed a lock in what appeared to be excellent condition, and while I had tested each lever by carefully pressing with a pick through the keyhole, this was not the same as a proper inspection of the lock. Things can and do go wrong. I told him that I understood and that I was prepared for any outcome - but I was certain the if the lock was not broken internally, then Lauren could open the lock and make a new key. We came to an agreement on what he would charge for this service and I shipped the lock to him.
He turned this around very quickly, keeping me informed at every step. I now have the lock back with a shiny new key. The key works like a charm - a my lock is whole once again. Originally I had planned to sell the lock. But with working key in hand, I am so delighted to have the lock restored to a functioning lock. I’m keeping this in my personal collection for the foreseeable future.
I could not be happier with the work Lauren did here. I am grateful to both Lauren and to the members of this forum. Thank you all very, very much.
Tim
Oh yeah, the pictures. Of course. These first three were ones Lauren sent to me. I am posting them here with his permission. Just know they are his images:
The remainder are my photos:
