Inheriting or purchasing a property occasionally includes "legacy" security hardware, such as locked antique safes. Without a combination, these security containers represent both a mystery and a potential liability. When a safe remains locked, professional intervention is required to recover potential assets and restore the unit's utility without causing unnecessary damage.
Identifying and Opening Vintage Safes
Correct identification of the manufacturer and internal locking mechanism is the vital first step in any professional opening. In our latest project, we successfully identified a safe as a Mosler, featuring patent dates dating back to 1880. To bypass the lock, we utilized a drill and scope. This process involves analyzing characteristics of the safe and dial to determine the lock's internal configuration, followed by creating a minute access point for a scope. By observing the wheel pack directly, we can determine the exact combination and reset the mechanism, ensuring the safe is unlocked and fully functional for the new owner.
Benefits of Professional Safe Services
Our specialized methods ensure that 19th-century craftsmanship is preserved, keeping the safe functional rather than rendered as scrap metal. Precise opening protects the integrity of the contents, whether you are dealing with historical documents or family heirlooms. Furthermore, it was not uncommon for safes to be booby trapped with deterrents such as tear gas before that practice was criminalized.
If you have acquired a locked safe or require expert combination recovery, trust a local expert with the proper tools and experience. Contact us today to schedule a professional consultation.