Posted by Stockade locksmiths on December 03, 2001 at 07:02:02:
In Reply to: How can you detect a "fake" ? posted by ciscokrs on December 02, 2001 at 20:54:20:
Your question is a bit wide for a positive answer. There are no 'Fake'darby handcuffs but there are darby cuffs made to look old even though they are modern. It would be by the means they are advertised and described which would be fraudulent. Hiatts of England still make their darby cuff but it could be considered a reproduction of their old steel version as the new cast alloy is by no means close to the quality of the former darby cuff. (and because is is made by the original company which started in 1780 is also an authenic makers piece)
There are several companies in India which make darby cuffs today and are sold all over the world.
From the direct contact I have had with two of these firms, their items are just sold as handcuffs, never as antiques, police issue or any other such description.
If you are interested in getting the better quality English or German darby handcuff and which to check them against the Indian made items.
May I refer you to the message [Ian McColl has sent a useful diagram. - J. Lauher 09:25:37 6/30/2001] which shows a drawing of the English and Indian darby and what to look for.