Looking at ebay item 111812631066 I'd say this is a modern eastern reproduction, but quality looks much improved from a few years ago. The key entry is angled more authentically to the lock tube, and the key is noticeably more realistic. The folded-over construction of the hinge is still apparent however, and the bow lugs are still crude. But its not bad looking really. If the manufacturers work a little harder, it could soon be very difficult to visually tell the reproductions from the genuine article. I've only handled one of the eastern reproductions, and the key operation was very rough with that example. But one could only determine that after purchase.
to show an realistic knowledge and appreciation of cuffs, their names should be correct. Stolz is Stotz and derby is darby.
Paul Davies 02 Nov 2015
#3Looking at ebay item 111812631066 I'd say this is a modern eastern reproduction, but quality looks much improved from a few years ago. The key entry is angled more authentically to the lock tube, and the key is noticeably more realistic. The folded-over construction of the hinge is still apparent however, and the bow lugs are still crude. But its not bad looking really. If the manufacturers work a little harder, it could soon be very difficult to visually tell the reproductions from the genuine article. I've only handled one of the eastern reproductions, and the key operation was very rough with that example. But one could only determine that after purchase.
Don't assume that this guy is selling only modern repros. About a year ago I bought from him a set of "Australian" riveted leg irons with Broad Arrow mark which I am sure are original and probably close to 200 years old. This same type of iron could have been used in Canada when the British ruled there. (I was wondering why they would be found in the US.) The derby (pronounced darby in English) mentioned above, has the India style swivel of modern repros and also of the older style cuffs from that area.
Paul
