Locksmith is one of the oldest profession in history and a very important one. It has been around for centuries and evolved over time to keep the ever changing needs of society from ancient wooden locks to modern digital security systems.
The history of locks stretches back thousands of years and with its development people are able to protect their properties and valuable items.
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.
Roman Era
The Romans made significant advancements in lock technology and introduced metal locks and keys. These locks were more secure and durable.
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.
Industrial Revolution
The Industrial Revolution during the 18th and 19th centuries led to great advancements in lock design.
Precision engineering and mass production techniques enabled the creation of more complex and secure locks. Notable 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. These locks can be operated without keys and are often controlled through keypads, magnetic cards, or remote controls.
Electronic locks offer improved security features and can track who enters and exits your property at all times.
Biometric Systems
Biometric security systems use unique physical characteristics such as fingerprints for identification.
These systems have become very popular for commercial buildings because of their high level of security and convenience.
Smart Locks
A subgroup of electronic locks and very popular for residential purposes. Smart locks are connected devices that can be controlled remotely through smartphones.
They offer homeowners the ability to lock or unlock doors remotely and grant temporary access to visitors.
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.