buy non-rotating doorknob on backplate for classic front door
Do you have a classic front door, for example at a country house or a 1930s home, and do you want to give it a well-maintained, traditional look that is also secure? Then a non-turning doorknob on a backplate is a beautiful choice. In this version, the fixed knob sits on an elongated backplate that neatly covers the lock and the recess, creating a stately and cohesive appearance. Because the knob does not turn, your door opens from the outside only with the key, while you operate the door from the inside simply with a handle. This way, you combine a classic entrance with a good burglary deterrent.
On this page, we will calmly explain exactly what a fixed doorknob on an escutcheon does and the available configurations for your different doors. You will read about the finishes we carry, the difference compared to a knob on a rosette, and how to fit the knob into your complete front door package. We will also help you with the correct sizing and installation. This way, you can confidently choose the knob that suits your front door and interior style. Read on!
What exactly is a non-turning doorknob on an escutcheon?
A non-rotating backplate doorknob is a complete front door set featuring a fixed knob on an elongated metal backplate, typically 200 to 300 mm high. This backplate covers both the lock mortise and the recess where the handle would be located on a standard door, creating a calm and traditional appearance. Because the knob is fixed in place and does not rotate, the door can only be opened from the outside with a key, posing an additional barrier for unwanted visitors. On the inside, there is usually a rotating handle or knob that allows you to open the door normally. For the interior, you might choose a rotating knob handle,. This version looks particularly good in a classic country house, a 1930s home, or a 1950s home.
The difference compared to a standard rotating handle lies entirely in the fixed construction on the street side. Whereas a rotating handle operates the lock, the fixed knob serves purely as a handle to pull the door shut after you have opened it with the key. The elongated backplate creates a more classic, stately look than separate rosettes. If you would like to take a broader look at all fixed and rotating knobs first, view our collection of door knobs. There you can see at a glance which version suits your door.
Which configurations and versions can you choose?
You choose the configuration based on the lock in your door and the function of the room. A blind version has a backplate without a key recess and is intended for an interior door without a lock, purely as a decorative element. The SL56 version has a classic keyhole with a distance of 56 mm between the knob and the keyhole, for a traditional lock with a mortise key. For a modern cylinder, choose the PC version, with PC55 for interior doors and PC72 for most front doors. And for a toilet door, there is the WC63 version with a locking hole. So, check which type of lock your door has before you choose.
To determine the correct version, measure the position of the cylinder or keyhole in your door and select the corresponding PC or key size. An incorrect size will not fit the lock, so this is the most important step before you order. If in doubt, measure the distance between the center of the knob and the center of the lock. If you prefer a rotating handle on an escutcheon instead of a fixed knob, take a look at our collection of door handles on escutcheons. Our advisors will be happy to help you determine the right version.
Which finishes do we offer?
We offer backplate door knobs in five classic finishes, each with its own atmosphere. Lacquered brass provides a warm, traditional look and suits a classic country house beautifully; the lacquer finish retains its color for years without developing a patina. Tumbled brass, on the other hand, has a deliberately aged, patinated look that complements an English country house style perfectly. Matte nickel offers a calm, semi-matte silver tone for a classic home. This way, you will find a suitable shade for every classic front door.
For a somewhat more modern-classic look, there are also stainless steel and chrome options. Brushed stainless steel appears neutral and timeless and adds a light industrial accent, while chrome combines a classic appearance with a high-gloss finish. For a harmonious overall look, it is best to choose a single finish and apply it consistently to your entire entrance. If you wish to fully coordinate your front door by color, take a look at our wider collection of brass door hardware. This way, the style runs like a common thread through your facade.
What is the difference compared to a doorknob on a rosette?
The difference compared to a doorknob on a rosette lies in the size and placement of the components. With a knob on an escutcheon, the knob and the lock opening are located together on a single elongated plate, whereas with a knob on a rosette, the fixed knob sits on a small, separate round or square rosette. As a result, the escutcheon version presents a more classic, stately appearance, while the rosette version looks more modern and minimalist with little visible metal. Functionally, both perform the same function as a fixed handle on the outside. The choice therefore depends primarily on the style of your door.
For a classic country house or a 1930s home, choose the escutcheon version, as it visually complements the period of the house. For a modern villa with a sleek front door, the rosette version is a more obvious choice; you can view this in our collection of doorknobs on rosettes (non-rotating). Maintain a consistent single type within your entrance for a cohesive look. If you are unsure which fits best, compare the style of your front door with both options. Our specialists are happy to help you decide.
How does a fixed doorknob on an escutcheon fit into your front door package?
A fixed doorknob on an escutcheon fits best into your front door package when combined with a rotating handle on the inside and good security. On the outside, the fixed knob ensures the door opens only with the key, while you simply open it from the inside with the handle; this knob-handle combination offers you both security and comfort. Supplement this with an SKG-certified cylinder for good burglary protection, and choose hinges in the same finish for a calm, cohesive look. This way, your classic entrance becomes a well-thought-out whole. Assemble your front door in one go with our doorknob sets. When it comes to a front door, always think about security, not just the appearance.
For a complete look, coordinate the other components as well, ensuring your entrance looks cohesive as a whole. Combine the knob with matching hinges and an SKG cylinder from our collection of cylinders, and finish it off with a classic letter plate and matching house numbers in the same shade. By choosing everything in the same finish, you achieve a calm, polished look. If you are unsure about the right combination, our specialists will be happy to put together a suitable package for you via info@deurbeslag-expert.nl.
What should you look out for regarding size and installation?
When it comes to sizing and installation, pay particular attention to the PC or key size, the door thickness, and the method of attachment. First, determine which configuration your door requires—such as flush, SL56, PC55, PC72, or WC63—by measuring the distance between the center of the knob and the center of the lock. Additionally, check whether the door thickness of your front door matches the chosen model, as this is critical with a fixed knob on an escutcheon. A fixed knob is mounted using through bolts to ensure it is securely fastened and cannot come loose when closing. With these measurements, you can be certain that the escutcheon will fit.
If you are replacing an existing backplate, this is particularly useful during a renovation, as the elongated backplate neatly covers older screw holes and a spacious lock recess. Do measure the position of the existing holes to ensure the new set covers them. Tighten the bolts firmly but evenly so that the backplate sits straight and tight without damaging the door. If you are unsure about the correct size or installation, send a photo of your door with a ruler to info@deurbeslag-expert.nl. Our advisors will select the appropriate version for you.
Why order your backplate door knob from Deurbeslag Expert?
You order your backplate doorknob from Deurbeslag Expert because here you can choose from a beautiful assortment of classic designs in all common configurations and finishes, accompanied by honest advice. Whether you are looking for a warm brass knob for a country house, a patinated tumbled version, or a sleek stainless steel finish, you will find the knob that suits your front door and living style. The most requested models are in stock, so you can get started on your entrance quickly. If you are unsure about the configuration, the finish, or the combination with your cylinder, our specialists will be happy to help you via info@deurbeslag-expert.nl. Order before 4:00 PM? Then your backplate doorknob will be delivered tomorrow.