The Schaub Artifex Round Knob brings Italian-made Britannium construction to Montana cabinet projects. This hand-made tin-based alloy, historically used for Medieval sword handles, offers contractors a living finish option that develops its own character over time.
Two sizes handle different cabinet scales: the 772 at 1-3/8” diameter and the 773 at 1-5/8” diameter. Both project 1-1/4” from the cabinet face with a 5/8” base diameter. Compatible with standard 8-32 pre-drilled cabinet holes. Suitable for typical cabinet panel thicknesses (up to ~3/4 inch with 1-inch screw).
Living Finish Technology
Natural (N) and Dark Pewter (DP) finishes come unlacquered — no protective coating between the metal and your hands. No finish warranty is offered for living finishes as they are intended to age and change over time. This isn’t a defect. It’s the point.
The patina develops based on use patterns. High-traffic kitchen cabinets will age differently than a rarely-opened linen closet. Montana’s dry winters and variable indoor humidity from wood stove heating accelerate the aging process compared to more stable climates. Each knob becomes unique to its location and use.
Clean with a damp, non-abrasive cloth using mild dishwashing liquid and warm water. Wipe dry with a soft cloth. Avoid harsh cleaners, waxes, or polishing to preserve the living finish and allow the patina to develop naturally.
Britannium Construction and Applications
The material choice sets these knobs apart from typical zinc die-cast hardware. Britannium is a hand-made tin-based alloy that feels substantial in the hand — denser than aluminum, warmer than stainless steel.
Applications span kitchen cabinets, bathroom vanities, furniture drawers and doors, historic restoration projects, and custom millwork. The rustic aesthetic works particularly well in Montana’s log homes and historic ranch restorations where modern finishes look out of place.
Made in Italy, these knobs reflect old-world metalworking traditions. The artisanal approach shows in subtle variations between pieces — not machine-perfect uniformity.
Specifications and Installation
| Specification | Model 772 | Model 773 |
|---|---|---|
| Diameter | 1-3/8” (35mm) | 1-5/8” (41mm) |
| Projection | 1-1/4” (32mm) | 1-1/4” (32mm) |
| Base Diameter | 5/8” (16mm) | 5/8” (16mm) |
| Thread | 8-32 UNC | 8-32 UNC |
Standard single-hole mounting. Use the provided 1-inch 8-32 screw to secure the knob to the cabinet panel. Included items: 1 Artifex Round Knob, 1 Mounting Screw (typically 8-32 x 1 inch).
Limited Lifetime Warranty for the original residential purchaser against defects in material and workmanship. The mechanical warranty covers function, not finish — the changing appearance is intentional.
Who Should Buy This
These knobs make sense for historic restorations where authenticity matters. The living finish matches the natural aging of original hardware better than any applied patina. Custom home builders working on high-end rustic projects will appreciate the artisanal quality.
Skip these for rental properties or anywhere consistent appearance matters. The living finish means every knob ages differently — great for character, problematic for uniformity. Also not ideal for high-moisture environments where accelerated tarnishing might occur.
At two size options with limited finishes, this isn’t a versatile line. But for the right project — a restored 1920s Craftsman in Stevensville, a custom log home in Whitefish — the Artifex knobs deliver authentic character that improves with age.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between Natural and Dark Pewter finishes?
Both finishes start unlacquered and develop patina over time. Natural begins lighter and ages to various bronze tones. Dark Pewter starts with a deeper gray tone and develops darker, more uniform patina. Neither finish is sealed — both will change with use and environmental exposure.
Can these knobs work with soft-close cabinet doors?
Yes. The knob mounting has no impact on soft-close mechanisms, which operate within the hinge or drawer slide hardware. The 1-1/4” projection provides adequate clearance for most overlay door configurations.
How do these compare to standard cabinet knobs for durability?
The solid Britannium construction outlasts typical zinc die-cast knobs. The living finish eliminates coating failure — there’s no plating to peel or lacquer to chip. The mechanical limited lifetime warranty covers function. Just understand that appearance changes are intentional, not defects.
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