An introduction to Optimum Brasses
With over 40 years of experience, we are proud to offer a wide selection of high-quality brass and bronze furniture fittings. Our business has grown from a collection of period hardware starting in 1966 to now be a worldwide seller of authentic replica period brass and bronze fittings suitable for both classical and contemporary projects.
Our Story
Our business was founded in 1981 by Robert Byles, an antique dealer and restorer. Unhappy with the authenticity of reproduction brass hardware available on the market at the time, he began researching ways to ‘clone’ original pieces.
Following this research, it was decided that lost wax casting was the ideal method to achieve his desired results, leading to the creation of Optimum Brasses.
Optimum Brasses is now an employee-owned company located in the heart of the Southwest of the United Kingdom. We proudly stand as a leading hardware provider for both interior design and restoration projects worldwide.
Hand Finished Replicas
We specialise in period furniture fittings from the 17th century onwards, our collection includes a vast array of authentic designs, alongside modern innovations. We offer everything from classic cabinet knobs and handles to essential hinges and decorative escutcheons, with 28 distinct catalogues dedicated to specific historical fitting categories.
One of the things that sets us apart from other manufacturers is our dedication to hand-polishing and colouring. Unlike machine finishes, our hand-finished products have a more authentic look and feel, with each piece receiving the attention to detail that it deserves.
Our team take great care in every step of the production process, from raw brass & bronze, to hand polishing, assembling and colouring. Whether you are looking for a classic, traditional look or a modern, contemporary style, we have the expertise and experience to create the perfect piece of hardware for your needs.
The Colouring Process
We provide a selection of three premium materials: brass, bronze, and white bronze. Our products feature an unlacquered finish, allowing them to develop a natural patina over time.
We prefer to use a fuming process to age our brassware, which accelerates the development of a natural patina.
The duration of fuming directly influences the intensity of the final patina appearance. This technique results in what is referred to as a living finish; regardless of whether you choose a light, traditional, or polished finish, your hardware will continue to age gracefully over time.
We believe this approach provides the most authentic look for period furniture hardware.