Original Swedish Pump Key had been out of
production for many years, but the maker, Lennart Pettersson, is still in
business in Hoverberg, Sweden.
The Swedish key is a massive instrument, well suited to the European keying
style but a delight for anyone to use. If you have ever used a "massy" key
you will immediately recognize the smooth, "liquid" feel which results in
almost effortless keying.
Tension is provided by a single leaf or "torsion bar" spring at the front of
the key, and controlled by the large round knob on the top. Contacts are at the
rear of the key, and it is set up for either traditional "on-off" keying or
"make-and-break" (in which the receiving circuit is opened when the
transmitting ciruit is keyed).
The key is mounted on a nicely finished dark hardwood (mahogany?) base which
conceals a heavy weight under a brass plate. Pettersson's logo and a serial
number are engraved on a plate at the front of the key. SN 1256
The base measures around 4" by 2" by 1-1/2" high. The overall length (from the
rear of the base to the front of the knob) is 7-1/2" while the overall height
(to the top of the adjusting knob) is 2-3/4." Total weight is 800g.
