Perhaps with a better key
Anyone who uses a tool wishes they had something that is of better quality. The musician, who wants a new horn/bow/didjeridu. The carpenter, who lusts after one of those Japanese handsaws that are on display at Lee Valley. The writer, wanting a sharper penknife to cut a finer quill (it could happen). The computer geek that wants a “better mouse”. Let’s accept that classier tools make happier craftsmen.
Today, I started searching for a new key. Like my father, I have actually earned money with this technological cornerstone, and the models I have around here right now are just not up to my expectations. Aren’t you curious?
I’m looking for a new straight key. One like this, perhaps.
I can only imagine (as Anne Shirley might say) what it would be like to have a Morse key that retails for $450 US. One that is handcrafted, with real bearings, and a look that cries out to me, saying “Load your credit card. I’m worth every Lincoln penny”.
My real key looks more like this one. It’s OK, and I’ve had it ever since it followed me home from the Coast Guard. It clicks and clacks, and the wooden base (not shown here to save room) is a fine example of what people in isolated places do to amuse themselves.
Retail value hovers somewhere around $65 US. I’m indifferent; I have one already.
When things get fast and furious, the handkey moves aside, and the “Bug” takes over. I’ve had mine for about three decades, and it still works just fine:
Still, even though I’m not sending out an SOS on this one, if the fine folks at Morse Express are tuned in; I would love to do long term field tests with that little jewel at the top of the page. Just a thought.
