Oil Rubbed Bronze is one of the most popular finishes today offering a deep shade of brown with interesting copper and golden highlights. It should be noted that it is a hand done finish that will vary not only from piece to piece, but even within each piece itself. Furthermore, Schlage’s Oil Rubbed Bronze being more of a chocolate color, is different than Baldwin, Emtek, Deltana, Grandeur, Nostalgic Warehouse, Omnia and Weslock so be aware that when mixing brands you are getting different shades of Oil Rubbed Bronze. Most are accepting of this difference, particularly if the pieces are not set directly side by side. Deltana hinges will work with any brands door knobs for instance.
Oil rubbed bronze is a living finish that is intended to wear with use and age to reveal the copper highlights beneath the hand applied bronze coating. The brass substrate of the knob or lever set is first finished in copper, which in itself will wear to reveal the gold base. It is these wear lines or highlights, contrasting with the variations of the bronze that offer the unique depth and interest that is Oil rubbed bronze.
Many people find this wearing of finish disconcerting, preferring that the product they buy stays the way it is when first purchased. If this is your thinking, choose Venetian Bronze which is an Oil Rubbed Bronze that is artificially highlighted to reveal the coppery color below and then sealed with a lacquer to prevent further deterioration. Venetian bronze are thus more red in hue and can be found from Kwikset, Baldwin, Wesier and Schlagebut Schlage calls it Aged Bronze.
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