KNOCK Doorbells

Although KNOCK Doorbells offers new door chimes for sale, it's really their selection of vintage chimes that's got us ringing with excitement. Offering a selection of longbells (which produce the richest, fullest notes), resonators (xylophone style), compacts (for smaller spaces) and other unique doorbell contraptions, KNOCK Doorbells is both a retailer and historic resource of the humble modern door bell worth giving a buzz.

Taking a look at the selection, we realized that we grew up with the Nutone LA12 Contour model in our 1970's Valley tract home, hich can be had for $75 for the classic ding-dong effect of our childhood. But if we had our way, we'd be ringing in the guests with one of these mid-century Miami-Carey Starburst door bells. There's also Deco era bells and Mod era doorbells, amongst a range of era specific designs to fit into most any home made before 1980.

Comments (3)

I love these! I wish my apt. building was wired up for these.

Does anyone have any solutions for me:
I live upstairs in a 4 unit building. The downstairs door is always locked for safety and there's no bell or intercom system. The only way people can drop by is by calling me on a cell phone. If I know people ar coming over, I'll leave the door propped open. Are there wireless bells? Or a string and pulley system? I'd like for people to be able to visit!

posted by laure on April 4th 2007 at 10:57am
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Yes there are wireless doorbells, be sure to test the range on it, and that you get permission to screw/tape down the doorbell part to the exterior of the building if needed. That's what I got for ten dollars at home depot, and I liked that I could plug it in toward the back of the house where I can actually hear it when I'm too far away to hear knocking. The button itself runs on a small battery.

posted by Jenny (Usagi) on April 4th 2007 at 12:18pm
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Here are two that will play MP3 files, so you can put any retro/modern/fun tones you want in them. I like the first one because it's more aesthetic - but I can't find anyone that sells them direct to consumers.

http://www.gadgetizer.com/2006/11/29/doorlinx-mp3-doorbell/

http://www.bcsideas.com/yourbell.htm?gclid=CO7a1biZqosCFRfOggodHi-Lig

posted by boomer on April 4th 2007 at 2:15pm
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