Twenty Years Ago
Keys and key machines were the focus. Jerry Levine introduced the ITL 950 code machine. A number 15 Curtis clipper was also discussed. Tom Gillespie tested Pro-Lok Blue Punch machines. Charles Slocum reported on the formation of the Joint Locksmiths of California Conference (J.L.C.C.). Is that organization still operating today? Gale Johnson listed roadside assistance numbers for various car models. Phil Agius described his Sidewinder duplicating machine. Ken Dunckel issued a warning about doing business with national service providers. Pennsylvania locksmith Cliff Shafer installed a Marlock access control system. Jerry Levine offered a cross reference between Axxess key blank numbers to other popular key blank manufacturers. T.C. Mickley explained the Yale system of sectional keyways. Hyundai vehicle code series was the subject of an article. There were over a dozen code series in 1996 with many more to come. Milt Wolferseder reported on Sentry safe locks. David Davis outlined correct safe lock terminology. Ed Hite saw residential electronic locking as a new looming vertical market for locksmiths. Steve Sharpe showed how to use IC core locks as a recurring revenue source.
Ten Years Ago
Rod Oden believed that life safety issues should be considered whenever a security plan is altered. Maxcess card system was the subject of an article. Jerry Levine suggested various preventive maintenance procedures for maintaining door hardware. Ilco sponsored a sweepstakes contest with the winner being flown to Las Vegas for the 2006 ALOA convention. Schlage (Allegion) showed how a school security system was upgraded. Jerry Levine reported on the Original Safe & Vault safe product line. Nick Gartner introduced his LaGard swing blot safe lock. Tim O'Leary described the Napco Freedom access control system. Gordon Sibbald, IMAG Wireless Technologies, suggested their access control system as a profitable product for locksmiths. Schlage also described their WA Wyreless access control system. Richard Formica explained why a locksmith might require a Professional Employer Organization (POE). Steve Kaufman offered ways to target your marketing approach. Tiny serviced the locks on a Chevrolet Colorado truck.
Made In Chicago
A TV station in Chicago has a program segment each week called "Made In Chicago." Little known companies such as the ones which make the Oscar trophies, Twinkies snacks or Jelly Belly candy are featured. Perhaps not quite as world famous, there are several companies in Chicagoland which have made key machines. HPC made several machines including the 1200CM code machine in a Chicago suburb for over thirty years. Chicagoland companies Fort Lock and Chicago Lock both made key machines for originating tubular keys.
Bullis Locksmiths have been in business in Chicago for many years. At one time they made an automatic duplicator machine. We were reminded of that machine when another locksmith company, Final Touch Locksmiths, sent in a picture of a Bullis key machine.
Their Bullis machine is still in usable condition. As can be seen by the picture, the Bullis machine was over-designed. While perhaps not as pleasing to the eye as a modern automatic duplicator, the heavy duty parts defy their age and keep on ticking. Less dependable stamped steel and plastic parts are often found in many key machines today while sturdy cast iron parts in the Bullis machine will last forever. They don't make them like they used to.
