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The Zodiac Signs as Vintage Locks: Which One are You?

Five vintage padlocks in various colors leaning against a weathered wall. Above the locks, a ring of keys is hanging on a ribbon.

These days, “Zodiac signs as fill-in-the-blank” listicles dominate online journalism. And, hey, we don’t blame these publications: with modern society bringing a series of looming existential questions ever-closer, sometimes it’s comforting to look at everything through the lens of predetermined star traits. We figured it’s high time we joined the fray by making a Zodiac list after what we know best: locks.

Scroll on to see which expressive vintage locks best represent your sign.

An ornate key sticking out of a lock in a dimly lit library with a mysterious air to it.

Aquarius (January 20th - February 18th)

An air sign represented by the Water Bearer, Aquarius seems born to break the mold. These signs are highly intelligent, creative, and progressive, defying categorization at every turn. In doing so, however, they’ve garnered a bit of a reputation as the rebels of the zodiac. These traits all go to make the Aquarius a quirky, eclectic personality who’s more than a little misunderstood by their peers. For these reasons, we’ve chosen this discreet, ornamented side door lock to represent the sign. Though not an industrious lock, the subtle detailing implies creativity and expression, a lock likely used to conceal a library or secret room.

Skeleton key sticking out of an ornate lock on a door.

Pisces (February 19th - March 20th)

One of the more sensitive signs on our list, the Pisces is a deeply feeling, intuitive person who often gets wrapped up in their own emotions. However, this isn’t necessarily a flaw: in friendship, they forge deep, unbreakable bonds with those they connect with, while their emotionality leads them to excel in creative pursuits. In many ways, they’re like this diamond-shaped ornamental lock — expressive, elegant, and imaginative.

Lock with a swirled door handle on a grey door with geometric patterns.

Aries (March 21st - April 19th)

The sharp trimmings and hardy steel on this 19th-century door lock and knob are the perfect matches to the willpower of an Aries. With fire as their ruling element, Aries are known for being self-assured and commanding, taking charge the moment they feel a new want. As with steelwork, this ambition can come across as cold or abrasive, yet one still has to admire the power. They’re incredibly straightforward and candid regarding their feelings, which lends them a certain charm akin to the foliage embellishments on this lock.

A simple brass padlock next to a matching key on a pink background.

Taurus (April 20th - May 20th)

Grounded, stubborn, loyal. These traits could define Taurus, the second astrological sign, or a classic, Victorian brass padlock. Similar to the earth sign, brass padlocks are among the toughest around, able to withstand great pressure for the sake of protecting the thing they hold dear. This obstinate dependability often lends the Taurus a regal air but, like the lock, their willpower often causes them to be close-minded and stuck in their ways. Only a deft, understanding soul (or a key) can lead them to become more open.

A set of teal double doors with iron lion shaped knockers.

Gemini (May 21st - June 20th)

We’ve selected another ornamented lock for Geminis, arguably the most unpredictable sign, this time in a dual set. These iron lion knockers — one with the ring, one without — represent the Gemini’s internal caprice. We’re not saying they’re two-faced or anything, but it’s no doubt this sign is defined by an intrinsic tendency to swing between the rational and irrational, the reserved and expressive. For these reasons, conflicting double-door knockers seem the best vintage lock match.

Simple lock and doorknob on a red door.

Cancer (June 21st - July 22nd)

Cancers feel everything, all of the time. Often, the water sign’s emotions emanate from a deep part of themselves and, once they feel a new mood, they ride the wave until they uncover its source, or get as close as they can. Other times, however, the sign will take on the feelings of others, carrying their grief or sadness. In many ways, this impressionable emotional state resembles the above Victorian townhouse lock, scalded by time and wear. It might seem cold on the surface but after a closer look, you can’t help but smile thinking of all the varied experiences that passed this way before.

An ornate lion lock.

Leo (July 23rd - August 22nd)

Only a lock as majestic as this ornamented iron lion could match the energy of a Leo. Known as the most flamboyant sign of the twelve, Leos are natural people-persons, equipped with enough personality and charisma to fill a room. Just as a lion lock would grab your eye, so too would a true Leo. Similar to their lion namesake, Leos are brash, confident (sometimes to a fault), and always lead with their hearts. Whether someone would choose an ornamental lock or Leo friend is a matter of personal taste, but one thing for certain: once you see them, they’re pretty hard to forget.

A brass padlock with swirl motifs.

Virgo (August 23rd - September 22nd)

For the tender-hearted Virgo, we selected this decorative brass padlock. Like the quaint, drawn-in nature of the lock, Virgo’s are natural introverts with an eye for perfection. Padlocks are the most effective locks in keeping their contents restrained and protected, making them the natural counterpart to the Virgo’s desire to self-actualize and their innate humility. Additionally, to feel truly fulfilled, Virgos need to be useful, and there’s no lock more dependable than the one above (though Virgos themselves make far better friends than a hunk of metal).

Gold plated doorknobs on teal doors with gold accents.

Libra (September 23rd - October 22nd)

At a glance, the trait that best defines Libras — the sign symbolized by balancing scales — is their desire to be seen as good. Like these gold-plated baroque locks, this need results in a charisma teetering on flashy at times, though it’s all to gain the admiration of others. They care about people’s feelings to such an extent they often become their mirrors (read: like these reflective locks), often to the detriment of their own self-understanding. But on the whole, Libra’s inherent compassion guides them to help others, becoming embodiments of responsibility not dissimilar to the regal duo above.

Decorative brass deadbolt on a green door.

Scorpio (October 23rd - November 21st)

We’re shaking things up and going with a decorative brass deadbolt lock for Scorpio, one of the most peculiar signs on our list. The Scorpio is deeply perceptive, analyzing layers of social interaction in an instant, all to spin a situation to their advantage. But doing so is often a defense mechanism, a way for them to feel in control and block others from knowing them further. This brass Art Nouveau deadbolt represents both the Scorpio’s deep insecurity and their greatest gift: their profound understanding of others’ needs.

Decorative brass keyhole on a blue textured background.

Sagittarius (November 22nd - December 21st)

Oh, the Sag, the real type-A-go-getter of the star signs. To an even greater degree than their fire sign counterparts, Sagittarius is grounded in principle and obsessed with self-betterment, making them forces to be reckoned with on any path they choose. In many ways, they’re like this sturdy vintage keylock: industrious and intentional, with a trace of ornamental embellishments hinting at greater aspirations.

White-painted lock on a white door with ornate detailing.

Capricorn (December 22nd - January 19th)

Capricorns are bastions of responsibility. The “mom friend.” Their deep compassion is both their greatest strength and greatest weakness, causing them to either take on duties no one else can or run themselves ragged trying to pick up everyone’s slack. Like these 18th century locks, painted over to blend into the door, a Capricorn’s empathy and pragmatism can sometimes cause them to get overlooked for their flashier friends but, deep down, they know they’re the structure that keeps everything together.

PAL is in Your Horoscope

Though your door lock’s fate may be written in the stars, you shouldn’t sacrifice quality to chance. No matter if you’re looking to rekey your lock, upgrade to a high-security lock, or simply get back inside after being locked out, give us a ring — we’re here for you anytime.

What Are High Security Keys and Locks?

What Are High Security Locks And Keys?

When it comes to home security, it’s always better to be safe than sorry. As a homeowner, you may desire a higher sense of security for your residence than traditional locks or deadbolts can provide. You may have previously experienced a home invasion, or have chosen to keep valuables stored within the property. Maybe you live in a neighborhood with a higher crime rate, or you simply want more peace of mind that you and your family are safe. Whatever your reason, if you’re looking to increase your home’s security, consider installing a system with high security keys and locks. These systems provide better security than a traditional lock and key, and are a great option to discuss with your locksmith.

What Are High Security Locks?

High security locks are specifically designed to provide better protection for those that install them. These locks are often equipped with reinforcement such as rods and plates, deterring criminals as they quickly realize they cannot gain entry into the property through their typical methods of picking or drilling. 

 High security locks may also contain a more complicated pin system, meaning the hardware is designed so only high security keys can unlock them. These locks use different technology to secure the cylinder, and are very effective at maximizing your home’s security. Though high security locks can be implemented in most existing lock hardware systems, be sure to discuss with your locksmith the best method to add these locks to your system. 

Finally, high security lock systems are typically equipped with reinforced plates on the door frame. These plates make it much harder for someone to kick your door in or break the door frame. Through all of these components, high security lock and key systems make your home very hard to break into, adding an undesirable amount of noise and time spent outside to those with criminal intentions. These individuals often aim to enter a home as quickly and quietly as possible, looking to minimize the risk of being caught.

What Are High Security Keys?

When it comes to implementing a high security system,  the most important  component is the installation of a more complex lock. However, along with the new lock, your locksmith can make you a set of high security restricted keys. These keys are much harder to get copied, as only  one locksmith in your area can make copies. The blanks used to make these keys are restricted to only one locksmith per area, and most of these locksmiths have a process for ensuring only authorized people can get copies. The locksmith may track the amount of keys that have been made, keep a formal record of authorized individuals, or require ID upon asking to copy.

Additional Security Measures to consider

It’s important to note that while adding a high security key and lock system to your home will contribute to better overall security, the system is not as effective without implementing other safety measures on your property. Make sure you address other potential security weaknesses in your home such as:

  • Entryways: Make sure all entrances to your home are well-lit. Keeping your outdoor lights on at night deters criminals as neighbors or anyone passing by can see that someone is trying to break in. 
  • Landscaping: It’s best to avoid shrubbery that obscures windows. If you do have trees or bushes that block first floor windows, make sure to keep the branches trimmed down. These are often hiding places for people attempting to break in.
  • Invest in a Home Security System: If you are concerned about your home’s security, consider investing in a security system. Openly display that you do have a system, placing signs outside the property or a sticker on windows. These practices significantly decrease attempts to break in.

How Can Electronic Locks Help Keep My Home or Business Safe?

How can electronic locks keep my home or business safe?

Smart home devices can curate your grocery list, tell you the temperature, translate phrases from English to Spanish and back again, and even deliver witty comebacks to your queries. 

Now, you can open your door on command (from anywhere) if you have a smart lock installed. With smart locks, the intelligent home and workplace that so many wish existed are another step closer to reality.

What is a Smart Lock?

A smart lock is a conventional deadbolt lock overlaid with a cryptographic key. Smart locks contain technology that locks and unlocks a door when instructed to do so by an authorized wireless device. It can be opened with your smartphone by installing a mobile app, or it can use a special key fob, like your car. The more sophisticated smart locks can also interface with your smart speaker, like Google Home, Alexa, and others. The cryptographic key uses wireless technology to authenticate the user and can also monitor access to your home  while monitoring  other critical events. Some smart locks even come with a camera.

Why Should You Install a Smart Lock?

One of the most convenient features of smart locks is the ability to create a virtual key that can be sent to the recipient via SMS or email. The virtual key will allow them access to your home or business, but it is ephemeral; it will only work for an allotted time period that the owner specifies.

This is a significant benefit for homeowners and business. No more leaving keys under the mat, or having to keep track of how many keys you have and who has them.

Even better, no more racing back to the office or your house to let in a guest, service technician, dog walker, or anyone else you’d like to allow in. You can do everything remotely, and you have a record of every entry and exit with a timestamp that you can reference later. You can also make multiple virtual keys for several people at once, a real benefit for when you go on vacation.

Many smart lock apps can even be used to check if you locked the doors when leaving the house,  from miles away while you tackle your workday. 

The main benefits of smart locks are:

  • Smart locks increase your ability to grant secure access to your home or business to third parties. The cryptographic authentication process is more secure than having random keys in places you cannot monitor or control.
  • Smart locks create a record of all entries and exits to your home or business. If the property is vandalized or things are stolen, you can see which authentication codes were used to grant entry.
  • The smartphone/smart lock web interface allows for many possibilities. Not only can you unlock doors, but with new technology you can also turn on the lights, set the temperature, and other functions by integrating the separate systems.
  • The ability to monitor your home remotely is enhanced with smart lock technology and other features such as cameras at the front door. Interfacing with your security system through the smart lock app. These are enormous benefits for security-minded homeowners and business owners.

Wi-fi driven technology is creating a revolution in home and business premise security, and smart locks are at the center of it. Your business or home door lock can used to be to keep people out on a basic level, but it does so indiscriminately. Now you can use smart locks to simplify your day through remote technology that allows you to grant access from miles away when necessary. 

Need Help With Smart Locks? Contact Pop-A-Lock

Since our founding in 1991, Pop-A-Lock has been committed to leading the way when it comes to new technology and trends. We strive to always use the newest and best technology to provide the highest-quality service to our customers. If you are interested in installing electronic locks  in your home or business, or if you need assistance with an electronic lock that has already been installed, call your local Pop-A-Lock today to find out how we can help you!