In article , dpb wrote:

Would like to cover the old plate on exterior door dad removed original
skeleton key mortise lock and just put on a cheap knobset. Leaves the
appearance problem of the now uncovered area. Unfortunately, while kept
many things, afaict, that old hardware is no longer around.

To make the search even harder, the original hardware is the old
multi-toned copper plated stuff (ca 1915) which I have had no luck
whatsoever finding anything currently produced to even approximately match.

A new form-factor like mortise lock in polished brass is findable or a
very inexpensive one in bronze or brass but still just skeleton key; I'd
like just a little more security than that if possible plus its reviews
indicate it is built like the price would indicate.

Q? is twfold...

1. anybody have any other experience trying to replace such and
solutions and
2. if went w/ the bright brass, any ideas on trying to tone it down to
not be so blindingly out of synch w/ rest of house.

DBD-

My problem is replacing 1940's hardware that is wearing out. I have
found both Brass and Silver mortise hardware with the same keys. The
package has a key number listed, if you want several with the same key.

I suggest you try Ace, Home Depot and Lowe's to see what their hardware
departments suggest. I forget which had the silver hardware I ended up
getting.

Fred