Schaub Martello Cabinet Hardware: Living Finish Knobs That Age Like Fine Leather

The Martello collection from Schaub brings something different to cabinet hardware — an unlacquered “living finish” that develops its own patina over time. This isn’t another lacquered brass knob that’ll look the same in 20 years. Made from Britannium metal alloy with a natural, untreated surface, these knobs actually change character as they’re used.

The collection targets builders and homeowners who want hardware that tells a story. The handcrafted rustic design emphasizes functionality and a timeless look — perfect for Montana’s log homes, mountain contemporary builds, and any project where authentic materials matter more than showroom shine.

Living Finish Technology

The Natural - Unlacquered Living Finish sets Martello apart from typical cabinet hardware. Most knobs come sealed under layers of lacquer to prevent any change. Martello goes the opposite direction. The Britannium base material gets no protective coating, allowing the surface to develop a unique patina over time.

Think of it like raw copper gutters or untreated leather — the material responds to its environment. Oils from hands, moisture levels, even the frequency of use all contribute to how each piece ages. A knob on the coffee station cabinet will patina differently than one on the guest bathroom vanity. That’s the point.

This approach works particularly well in Montana’s climate. The state’s low humidity and temperature swings create distinct patina patterns compared to coastal regions. Contractors installing these in Flathead Valley log homes or Bitterroot ranch houses are giving clients hardware that’ll evolve with the building.

Design Applications and Sizing

The round, unobtrusive profile makes Model 170-N versatile across different cabinet styles. At 1-3/4 inches diameter with a 1-inch projection, it’s substantial enough to grab easily but won’t dominate a cabinet face. The 1/2-inch base keeps the proportions balanced.

Specification	Model 170-N Round Knob
Diameter	1-3/4 in (44 mm)
Projection	1 in (25 mm)
Base Diameter	1/2 in (13 mm)
Thread Size	M4 x 1 mm
Alternate Screw	8-32 x 1 in

The collection extends beyond just round knobs. Model 171-N offers a square profile at 1-1/2” x 1-1/2”, while models 172-N through 179-N provide other shapes and sizes in the same living finish. This range lets contractors maintain consistent patina development across different hardware needs — drawer pulls, cabinet knobs, even furniture applications.

Applications span residential and light commercial cabinetry, kitchen cabinets and drawers, bathroom vanities, pantry doors, and furniture hardware. The rustic aesthetic particularly suits projects where natural materials dominate — exposed beam ceilings, reclaimed wood accents, stone countertops.

Installation and Compatibility

Martello knobs mount with either M4 x 1 mm metric screws or standard 8-32 x 1 inch cabinet screws. This dual compatibility matters on remodels where existing hardware might have used either standard. The knobs fit standard cabinet doors and drawers designed for single-hole mounting.

Installation follows standard surface mount procedures — screw from behind the panel. No special tools or techniques required, though contractors working with living finishes should mention to clients that touching the hardware with clean hands actually helps develop the patina evenly.

The Bottom Line on Martello

Living finishes aren’t for everyone. Clients who want their hardware to look factory-fresh forever should stick with lacquered options. But for projects where authentic materials and evolving character matter, Martello delivers something mass-produced hardware can’t match.

The collection works best in homes where other materials also show their age gracefully — oiled wood floors, natural stone, unlacquered fixtures. It’s hardware for people who understand that some things get better with use, not worse.

While no specific warranty terms were listed, standard manufacturer terms typically apply. Products carry California Proposition 65 warnings for state residents.

Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly is a “living finish” on cabinet hardware? A living finish is a natural, untreated surface that develops a patina over time. Unlike lacquered finishes that stay the same, living finishes change color and character through use and environmental exposure. Martello knobs use an unlacquered Britannium metal alloy base that darkens and develops unique patterns as oils from hands and air exposure work on the metal.

Will all the knobs in my kitchen age the same way? No, and that’s part of the appeal. Knobs on frequently used cabinets will develop patina faster than those on rarely opened doors. Montana’s dry climate creates different patina patterns than humid regions. Each piece develops its own character based on use patterns and location.

Can I use Martello hardware with my existing cabinet screw holes? Most likely. Martello knobs accept both M4 x 1 mm metric screws and standard 8-32 x 1 inch cabinet screws. They’re designed for standard single-hole knob mounting, so they’ll work with typical cabinet preparations.

How do I clean living finish hardware? Less is more. Harsh cleaners or polishes defeat the purpose by removing the developing patina. A dry cloth handles most cleaning needs. Some owners use a slightly damp cloth for sticky spots, but aggressive cleaning strips away the character you’re trying to build.

What other sizes and shapes does the Martello collection include? Beyond the 1-3/4” round knob (170-N), the collection includes a 1-1/2” square knob (171-N) and models 172-N through 179-N in various shapes and sizes. All share the same living finish treatment and rustic design philosophy.