Robert Hottot was born in 1845 in the small town of Laon, France. He was the son of a blacksmith and grew up in a rural environment. He was educated in the local school and was an avid reader. He was particularly interested in the works of Victor Hugo and Jules Verne.
At the age of 18, Robert Hottot joined the French Army and served in the Franco-Prussian War. He was wounded in battle and was awarded the Legion of Honor for his bravery. After the war, he returned to Laon and worked as a blacksmith.
In 1876, Robert Hottot moved to Paris and began working as a locksmith. He quickly gained a reputation for his skill and craftsmanship. He was soon hired by the French government to design and build locks for the Louvre Museum. He also designed locks for the Paris Opera House and the Palace of Versailles.
In 1883, Robert Hottot opened his own locksmith shop in Paris. He quickly became one of the most sought-after locksmiths in the city. He was known for his innovative designs and his attention to detail. He was also known for his willingness to work with customers to create custom locks.
In 1887, Robert Hottot was commissioned to design and build a new type of lock for the French government. This lock was known as the “Hottot Lock” and it was the first of its kind. It was a combination lock that could be opened with a key or a combination of numbers. This lock was used to secure important documents and valuables.
In 1895, Robert Hottot was awarded the Grand Prix at the Paris Exposition for his innovative lock designs. He was also awarded the Legion of Honor for his contributions to the French locksmith industry.
Robert Hottot continued to work as a locksmith until his death in 1910. He left behind a legacy of innovative lock designs and a reputation for excellence. His locks are still used today in many museums and government buildings around the world.
Robert Hottot was a pioneer in the locksmith industry. He was a master craftsman and an innovator. His legacy lives on in the locks he designed and the reputation he left behind. He was a true innovator and a master of his craft.