For Sale: Hiatt “Best” Non-Adjustable Darby Handcuffs – Excellent Condition
Offered here is an excellent-condition pair of Hiatt non-adjustable Darby handcuffs, a classic British pattern closely associated with the early days of escapology and widely used during Houdini’s rise to fame. He faced this style regularly and even wrote about them in his book Handcuff Secrets.
Maker / Markings: Clearly marked HIATT BEST, Warranted Wrought, 28, and HARD
Condition: Excellent throughout, clean surfaces and strong presentation
Key: Includes a working key (not original)
Quality Notes: “HARD” denoted a higher-grade, stronger steel, and this example is slightly heavier than most Hiatt Darbys of the period
Mechanics: Very crisp and strong springs, tight action, and smooth rotation
History: This was the most popular cuff during Houdini’s era, appearing often in challenges and police presentations of the time
A classic, well-marked Hiatt example for collectors of British, escape-related, or early 20th-century handcuffs.
Please see pics for overall condition.
Contact us today to secure this piece of restraint history!
I’m always interested in purchasing individual handcuffs or complete collections of jail jewelry — reach out if you’ve got something!
—
More cuffs and info available.
For Sale: Hiatt “Best” Non-Adjustable Darby Handcuffs – Excellent Condition
Offered here is an excellent-condition pair of Hiatt non-adjustable Darby handcuffs, a classic British pattern closely associated with the early days of escapology and widely used during Houdini’s rise to fame. He faced this style regularly and even wrote about them in his book Handcuff Secrets.
Maker / Markings: Clearly marked HIATT BEST, Warranted Wrought, 28, and HARD
Condition: Excellent throughout, clean surfaces and strong presentation
Key: Includes a working key (not original)
Quality Notes: “HARD” denoted a higher-grade, stronger steel, and this example is slightly heavier than most Hiatt Darbys of the period
Mechanics: Very crisp and strong springs, tight action, and smooth rotation
History: This was the most popular cuff during Houdini’s era, appearing often in challenges and police presentations of the time
A classic, well-marked Hiatt example for collectors of British, escape-related, or early 20th-century handcuffs.
Please see pics for overall condition.
Contact us today to secure this piece of restraint history!
I’m always interested in purchasing individual handcuffs or complete collections of jail jewelry — reach out if you’ve got something!
—
More cuffs and info available.
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