Once you have a snug fitting mortise lock in the door, you are ready to choose doorknobs. Because of the different manufacturing techniques, it is not always possible to mix different styles of knobs on the same spindle, so we recommend choosing a pair of the same style. There are many attractive reproductions available as well. See our classic doorhardware and lost wax castings for some attractive reproductions that will fit in BOTH the old mortise locks and the reproductions shown above. Once you have your knobs, then you can select your doorplates, or door roses.
Roses are the round escutcheons that the doorknob sits in, they serve the same purpose as plates.
You need two per door. This way you will find plates that match the spacing on your mortise lock, so you can use the keyhole. The reproduction plates shown on classic doorhardware and lost wax castings all have a spacing that works on most old mortise locks and also with the L-9 mortise lock shown above. Use your existing one, or choose a reproduction that will fit into the mortise already cut in the edge of your old door. Choose a pair of vintage or reproduction knobs.