Guiteau handcuff

Hello, I am currently making a few reproduction/replicas of the Guiteau handcuff made famous by the exploits of Harry Houdini and the assassination of US President Garfield.

I believe there are only 3 authentic Guiteau cuffs in existence and maybe only one of them works correctly. Details of this very rare cuff have been as scarce as the cuffs themselves. The fine reproduction by Mr Chris Gower back in the 1980’s had a unique version locking mechanism designed by Chris to obtain the ‘key within key’ function that the cuff is famous for.

The McColl Guiteau is solid steel investment cast steel with the genuine key within key function. The linkages and swivel have also replicated to make this a exceptional working replica.


For details and photos please contact me direct at
imccoll@sympac.com.au

Ian McColl

I've heard of this device but never seen a picture or patent drawing. Can someone point me in the right direction?

-Dorson

Hello, I am currently making a few reproduction/replicas of the Guiteau handcuff made famous by the exploits of Harry Houdini and the assassination of US President Garfield.

I believe there are only 3 authentic Guiteau cuffs in existence and maybe only one of them works correctly. Details of this very rare cuff have been as scarce as the cuffs themselves. The fine reproduction by Mr Chris Gower back in the 1980’s had a unique version locking mechanism designed by Chris to obtain the ‘key within key’ function that the cuff is famous for.

The McColl Guiteau is solid steel investment cast steel with the genuine key within key function. The linkages and swivel have also replicated to make this a exceptional working replica.


For details and photos please contact me direct at
imccoll@sympac.com.au

Ian McColl

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Hi Ian,
Count me in for one. I know your work, and also know I am not, nor will I ever be, owner of one of the FEW originals.
I've seen all three of the originals, and had the opportunity to play with two of them. It's a massive restraint, with a famous story, so I definitely want one of the few you're making. With it being lost-wax cast I know it's the same quality as your Romer, bean Giant, and Rankin reproductions.
OH yea, email me the price--I'll have it off to you soon.
John

Hello, I am currently making a few reproduction/replicas of the Guiteau handcuff made famous by the exploits of Harry Houdini and the assassination of US President Garfield.

I believe there are only 3 authentic Guiteau cuffs in existence and maybe only one of them works correctly. Details of this very rare cuff have been as scarce as the cuffs themselves. The fine reproduction by Mr Chris Gower back in the 1980’s had a unique version locking mechanism designed by Chris to obtain the ‘key within key’ function that the cuff is famous for.

The McColl Guiteau is solid steel investment cast steel with the genuine key within key function. The linkages and swivel have also replicated to make this a exceptional working replica.


For details and photos please contact me direct at
imccoll@sympac.com.au

Ian McColl

Click to expand...

G'day Dorson, the Guiteau was not patented. Many believe it to be the forerunner to the Rankin. On seeing it you could think that and the mechanism was an improvement in the Rankin. The Guiteau mechanism would have been a little stretch for the imagination for officer who hadn't used anything like it before. Some claim this is the reason they weren't around long.

I can forward you both a photo of the original (recently sold at the Sid Radner Houdini auction 2004) and a photo of my reproduction.

............

John, I thought you would like one and I have one ready and waiting. (thank goodness as I only had a small run cast and over half have gone)It is lost wax cast and I am very pleased with the result. I have also put togther a 4 page leaflet with a brief history and instructions. Edited by your friend and mine, Mr Mark Lyons, who also kindly sent me a photo from the above mentioned auction.

regards

Ian