TimescaleI have spend a couple of hours yesterday trying to identify the brand, original application and/or the country of origin for my straight key and I have come up, again, empty handed.
It is quite possible that this key is the labour of love by an amateur telegraph enthusiast who took various design cues from various commercial and military keys, but it looks so purposefully build, it strikes me very much as a army/naval/maritime unit.
It could originally have had a cover of some sort or it could have been integrated into a telegraph set.
I have searched through thousands of pictures with queries selecting Russian, German, Japanese, Italian, American, Dutch and French straight keys, but this type has not popped out.
If anybody has a clue what the make and origin of this key is, please drop a hint!
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It was not uncommon in years past for amateur radio operators to build their own straight keys, just like they would often build their own radios. You may have an example of just such a lovingly crafted key.
Are you sure? yes | no
I'm beginning to suspect that this is the case. The odd paint job (a bit ship console'ish) and cut wiring threw me off.
It has quite a old Russian and maritime feel to it, but this could be partially explained by there being a big harbor nearby.
I'll try and compile a list of branded keys that share similar design features.
Are you sure? yes | no
I hope you are able to find it's origins. Whoever made it did a fine job of it. If I haven't said so already, you also did a fine job of restoring it.
Are you sure? yes | no
I'm beginning to suspect that this is the case. The odd paint job (a bit ship console'ish) and cut wiring threw me off.
It has quite a old Russian and maritime feel to it, but this could be partially explained by there being a big harbor nearby.
I'll try and compile a list of branded keys that share similar design features.
Are you sure? yes | no