Brass Keyrings Add Maritime History To Your Pocket

Apr 17
12:31

2011

George Roy

George Roy

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Holding brass keyrings was a sign of status on board a ship and was confined to officers and higher members of the boat itself. Keys were added onto brass keyrings of officers each time the officer was promoted. Therefore, the more keys on one’s brass keyrings, the higher the rank that officer tended to be. The captain, first mate, and quartermaster held full sets of keys only as a security precaution. As a replacement for any that might get misplaced, the captain kept a fourth pair in his quarters.

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Among the fog of a dangerous night at sea,Brass Keyrings Add Maritime History To Your Pocket Articles an officer paces the deck while keeping look out. When looking with a little less intensity, the officer may focus on the stars as a welcome distraction. Fog is one of the worst inhibitors of a ship’s journey, as only the look outs and their sharp eyes could discern imminent danger that leapt out of the fog’s veiled embrace from all sides. These dangers are being looked for by the wary officer. Inside his pockets he uses to warms his hands with there are pictures of those he loves and rings of keys. With a shift of his hand, the keys are set off in a cascade of gentle chimes. The rank of an officer is represented by this item. 
Only those higher up on the ladder of the ship were ever allowed to carry brass keyrings. Every time an officer was inducted into a higher rank, more keys would be added to his brass keyrings. Therefore, the more keys on one’s brass keyrings, the higher the rank that officer tended to be. As a matter of security, those on board a ship who held a full set of keys was often limited to only three officers: the captain, the first mate, and the quartermaster. However, the captain also had a second set of keys in his office in case the other pair was lost by one of the three. 
Because of growing tensions of hired men and stable crew, brass keyrings played a vital role in keeping the peace. Today, military and other ships still use traditional brass keyrings, as well as electronic locks. Brass brass keyrings were made of this specific metal because brass resists sea salt corrosion uncommonly well. Preservation of the keys is crucial, and crafting them from brass metal is a great way to go about keeping the keys in tip-top shape. Aesthetically, brass is a warm, shining metal that can be polished for a very nice glow. For antique versions of these pieces, the corrosive effects of sea salt water is enough to determine age. The rusty, chalk-like green of the ocean salt rust is seen as desirable in some collectors circles. 
The presence of brass keyrings is one of subtle impression. This item does not grab attention immediately or fiercely, but still add a nice touch to any nautical decor. Adding brass keyrings so that they are on the noticeable portion of a flat, tall surface such as a shelf is a great way to go about getting them the recognition they so deserve. As a display item, they also do better when working alongside another piece, such as a compass or sextant. These items can also be used in daily life as rings for your own keys. The keys become much heavier due to the brass itself, and this can be an advantage in a messy bag. The retro mentality of the fashion world of modern times resonates well with these rustic pieces. One of the most celebrated aspects of these items is that they will last for an inordinately long period of time. Whether displaying or using brass keyrings, they are sure to be a perfect fit for any home.