Okay here’s more breaking news: five styles of mid century modern front door backplates, or escutcheons, launched by Rejuvenation in catalogs arriving today. These include the much-desired atomic star backplate. The style above, the Titan, is in three finishes — bright brass, polished chrome and bright chrome.
There also is a more subdued star, the Atlas, also available in the three finishes. There also are three more subdued — but equally attractive reproductions on their website. Circles and squares. All of these look to be authentic reproductions of midcentury modern manufacturers. I am announcing this on a Saturday of a holiday weekend — cuz that’s when my catalog landed in my mailbox. I’ll get more info on the original sources during the workweek. These reproduction are around $200, or a bit more. One of their advantages, I presume, is that they are sized for today’s door-knob and -bore sizes. Link: Door sets from Rejuvenation.
The Peek-O Revolving Home Viewer — peep hole in production since 1949 
New mid century doors available from Therma-Tru 
Midcentury modern front door escutcheons — 2 reproductions from Liz’s Antique Hardware 
14 Places to Buy or DIY Mid Century Modern Front Doors 
COMMENTS WILL RE-OPEN on MONDAY, DECEMBER 2. For the first time in, like, 13 years, I am taking a real vacation from the blog, to spend un-distracted time with family. As part of this, Commenting on the blog is paused. Meanwhile, please enjoy reading all the many stories in our archives -- and come back Monday, Dec. 2 when I will launch our annual giveaway of a vintage ornament wreath made by Georgia Peachez -- and when comments will reopen so you can enter to win! HAVE A HAPPY THANKSGIVING, EVERYONE!
Megan D says
Can someone tell me the difference between the older door knobs and the new ones? I just bought this http://www.ebay.com/itm/270825943653?ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1439.l2649#ht_654wt_1037 and I really have no idea what the differences are. I am hoarding things until we buy our first house. 🙂
Kelly says
@Susan: I read another post somewhere about the same issue you have – they suggested calling Beeson Hardware (High Point, NC) for replacement parts. They have a website, too. http://www.beesonhardware.com/ (although I don’t see specifically what you’re looking for). Maybe a phonecall is in order!
Theresa says
I live in a 1950’s Doelger home and I live across from the ocean. Will brushed chrome or polished chrome fare better in the salty air. What finish was used in that era, brushed chrome or polished chrome for door knobs? I’m interested in this: http://www.rejuvenation.com/catalog/products/atlas
pam kueber says
I am not absolutely sure but would guess that polished chrome was more popular. You should ask Rejuvenation if they have any historic information to answer this question.
Likewise, ask them about salt air resistance…
Good luck.