Answers to Questions

Caav developed a new internal latching and locking mechanism that frees designers from the constraints of legacy (cylinder and mortise) mechanisms. Our mechanism makes customization both possible and straightforward. Handle sets and cases can be pretty much any shape or material: metal, concrete, wood, stone, glass, ceramics, etc.​

Our mechanism is free of exposed fasteners to work around, lacks set screws for handle attachment, has no need for the metal plate on the jamb side (the latch retains in the door when it’s open), and our patented privacy lock mechanism works magnetically without buttons or holes (US patent #12,258,786).

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We offer both a traditional turning motion, and (unique in the industry) a sliding motion to release the latch. We also offer traditional torsion spring models, as well as fully magnetic handle returns (also unique, and with a silky feel). The neodymium magnets we use lose approximately 1 percent of their strength in 100 years.

After years of concealed hardware, minimalism, and nearly identical levers, we are excited to see and facilitate the return of bold, eclectic designs. Clients contact their door hardware every day and are looking for unique products that reflect their tastes and character over catalogue items. Caav also strives to give designers control over hardware again, as they had in centuries past prior to standardization.

We are proud of that and would love to give you a tour of the insides. We use machined brass and aluminum, 3D printed stainless steel, neodymium magnets, sealed ball bearings (other high-end brands use plastic rings), and advanced composites. Starting over from the beginning gave us the chance to fix a lot of things. For example, we don’t have the problems with handle sag that nearly everyone else seems to. You can feel the difference as soon as you turn the handle.

Everything worthwhile takes work…, but we make customization much easier than it was in the past even with standard attachments to legacy mechanisms. Get in touch and we will make you a proposal that fits your needs.

Pricing reflects the quality and originality of the pieces. They are not for everyone. That said, their price is consistent with other high-and hardware.

The main one is this is not concealed, minimalist hardware. Others do that. This is meant to be seen and experienced. Also, due to the extensive use of rare earth magnets in the mechanism, we cannot use ferrous metals for the cases.