Waldenlock Handcuff Key

I recently inherited a vintage pair of Waldenlock Handcuffs. Does anyone know where I could find a key for these 100 year old plus cuffs?

Obtaining a key for these may not be easy but you can try Ian McColl: Imccoll@dcsi.net.au and maybe he can help. I have a set of Waldens
but the key is not original to the cuffs so a small key was modified and pressed into service. I might caution you that in the event you obtain a key to turn it in COUNTER CLOCKWISE direction and probably no further than 90 degrees to open them.

Spencer

Thank you!

The Walden handcuffs came with a small simple bit key made of bent sheet metal.

Lars

The key is VERY simple and any locksmith close to you will be able to make a key for you.
Should be about $25 or so if you bring it in to them.  Maybe less if they have a key that works without much labor 

Appreciate the advice!

As the picture of your cuffs is from the backside; may I ask if booth key posts are present as these are sometimes broken.

The construction of the Walden is kind of fragile as the spring hit the tiny key posts when button is pressed and the lock is activated. Finally they break.

To avoid damages, you better keep the key in the lock when hitting the lock button. This will protect the key post from force.

Lars

Great advice Lars, The key post (drill pin) is rivetted to the same piece thru which the keyhole is perforated. This folded component  holds the mechanism and makes the outer edge of the lock. Another folded piece connects the lock to the frame via several rivets. If the key post falls out, it is nigh impossible to replace by re-riveting. I have heard of a pin soldered back, but this has risks as the heat could weaken the pawl spring.

Thank you for the excellent advice!
Here is a pic of the backside of the cuffs.

Hi Graveside55 (great name during a pandemic) Your cuffs are in great condition with both pins intact. If you get a key operate them once, to see they work and then display them. Too good to damage. 

Thank you! Will do!

I certainly agree, your cuffs are great with intact key posts! Be gentle to them. I don't know if you have noticed there are two versions; the long chain, like yours, and a swivel version.

Lars

A 3rd variation of the cuff is the Farnham Nelson.
Same cuff but the clevis/swivel is different than the Waldens.

While this is not a factory variation, it was possibly used by Houdini to escape from them with another cuff bow or tool to spread or twist the round ring.
Maybe used a security cuff in an underwater scenario.  This might explain the rusty/crusty condition.

Found the key!

Very good! You can take the upper and smaller bit away I guess. Remember to keep the key in the lock when pressing the lock button.

Lars