I work as a gardener at a large private residence, which the owners purchased approx 12months ago. Upon purchase this safe was found - the previous owner was an antique/art dealer at the top end of the market for over 50yrs to my knowledge, and we presume it had belonged to him.
I had previously emailed Bramah & Co pictures , requesting basic information, and they replied:-
"We think the safe was made around 1860 as part of a master suite as it has two locks, one working the master key & the other the “D” key as per the stamping."
Until recently, we have had no key, so it has stood outside in a courtyard for upto a year.
However, today I found a key, tucked above a beam in one of the stables, which Google images has shown to be a bramah key! It's just over an inch long.
I tentatively tried it and it fits the lock, but I didn't dare exert to much pressure whilst turning it, as the key feels so delicate. It didn't turn, with the pressure I applied.
I would like advice on three things if possible -
1. What would the safe be worth unopened, as an antique piece (presumed empty, or why would it have been left?)
2. Is there anything I could do, lubrication wise, to facilitate the key turning?
3. There are 2 locks obviously - is the second lock a reset lock? Is that what Bramah & co meant in their email to me by 'D' lock? Or would I need to use two keys at once to open it?
Thanks for any info.
Good catch!