Locksmithing has been around for centuries and evolved over time to keep the ever changing needs of society.
The roots of locksmithing
Ancient Civilizations
The earliest known locks belong to the ancient Egyptians around 4000 BCE. They were basic pin tumbler locks made of wood and the key was, also made out of wood.
The Romans use ward locks which required a key with a specific shape to match the internal wards.
Middle Ages
During this period of time locksmithing became a recognized profession, locks became more complex and decorative and blacksmiths who were making locks and keys were known as locksmiths.
The Area Of Industrial Revolution
During the 18th and 19th centuries the industrial revolution led to great advancements in lock and key field.
Precision engineering and mass production techniques enabled a more complex and secure locks.
Notable price winner invention was the double acting tumbler lock by Robert Barron in 1778.
Modern Era
From the late 20th century to the present day there was a great leap forward in lock technology and the integration of electronic security measures with traditional mechanical locks made a significant shift in the locksmithing profession and nowadays locksmiths are required the understanding of electronics, computer programming and digital systems on top of their traditional skills.
Here are the most advanced developments of our time:
Electronic Locks
Electronic locks have transformed the entire security landscape by eliminiting keys and they offer full control throughout keypads, magnetic cards, or key fobs.
Biometric Locks
These unique looks use individual’s unique physical characteristics like fingerprints and face recognition for identification.
These locks are very popular within many businesses because of their higher level of security and monitoring capabilities.
Smart Locks
A subgroup of electronic locks which is very popular for residential purposes ar smart locks.
These devices are controlled through smartphones make the lives of homeowners so convenient and easy.
Automotive Locksmithing
Modern automotive locksmithing has evolved beyond simple key duplication and lock picking.
Today a locksmith must understand complex automotive security systems like transponder keys and keyless entry systems and to have the ability to reprogram electronic car keys.