I don’t think you can argue with my position on this: This piece of hardware is utterly fabulous. As the city’s public schools are either gradually overhauled, or completely demolished, these knobs make periodic appearances on ebay, etsy and, I suppose, the auction circuit. I’ve also seen reproductions available here. The knobs themselves are cast brass and have a very satisfying heft and feel in one’s hand. They were manufactured by Sargent & Company and date from the early 1900s. This beauty was spotted at Matt and Jody’s house over the weekend. They very kindly lent it to me after I assured them I would return it. In this case, older is definitely better.