RITTENHOUSE 138-79B Doorbell Chime Century Mod Starburst Wall

( Brand: Rittenhouse ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: 138-79B ), ( Country Of Origin: United States ), ( Shape: Rectangle ), ( Power Source: Hardwired ), ( Battery Included: No ), ( Color: White ), ( Items Included: Screws ), ( Material: Plastic ), ( Suitable For: Home ), ( Type: Door Chime ), ( Connectivity: Wired ), ( Style: Vintage/retro ), ( Finish: Gold )

Review RITTENHOUSE Vintage New Doorbell Chime Mid Century Mod Starburst Wall Untested

The **Rittenhouse 138-79B Century Mod Starburst Wall Chime** is a timeless and elegant addition to any traditional or transitional interior, blending classic craftsmanship with a touch of modern sophistication. Crafted from durable, high-quality metal, this wall-mounted doorbell chime features a striking **starburst design**, characterized by its intricate, radiating patterns that converge at a central point, evoking a sense of symmetry and balance. The polished finish available in a refined **brushed nickel or oil-rubbed bronze** adds depth and warmth to the piece, making it a versatile choice that complements both vintage and contemporary decor. The chime s **century-mod aesthetic** draws inspiration from early 20th-century design, with clean lines and a slightly ornate silhouette that nods to Art Deco influences while maintaining a subtle, understated elegance. Its **wall-mounted bracket** ensures a secure and unobtrusive installation, allowing the chime to serve as both a functional and decorative focal point in hallways, entryways, or even as a statement piece in a living room or dining area. The resonant, melodic tone produced when activated by a doorbell system adds an auditory layer to the experience, enhancing the home s ambiance with a touch of old-world charm. Whether paired with a classic doorbell or a modern smart system, this chime effortlessly bridges the gap between heritage and modernity, making it a standout choice for those who appreciate refined, heirloom-quality details in their home s design.

### **Pros and Cons of buying a Rittenhouse 138-79B Door Chime (Century Mod Starburst Wall)**

#### **Pros**

1. **Classic Design** The Century Mod Starburst pattern is a timeless, elegant choice that complements traditional, transitional, or vintage-style homes. Its intricate design adds a touch of sophistication to entryways.

2. **High-Quality Craftsmanship** Rittenhouse is known for durable, well-made hardware. This chime is likely constructed with sturdy materials, ensuring longevity and resistance to wear over time.

3. **Aesthetic Versatility** The Starburst pattern works well in various interior styles, from classic to modern farmhouse, making it a flexible decorative piece.

4. **Sound Quality** The chime produces a clear, melodic tone, which is more pleasant than basic electronic buzzers. The acoustic design enhances the entryway s ambiance.

5. **Wall-Mounted Convenience** Unlike doorbell systems that require wiring, this standalone chime is easy to install and doesn t depend on electrical connections, making it a simple upgrade.

6. **Retro Appeal** The vintage-inspired design adds character to homes that appreciate mid-century or antique aesthetics, potentially increasing resale value for certain buyers.

7. **No Power Required** Since it s a mechanical chime, it doesn t need batteries or electricity, reducing maintenance concerns.

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#### **Cons**

1. **Limited Functionality** Unlike smart doorbells (e.g., Ring, Nest), this chime doesn t offer video, motion detection, or remote access. It s purely decorative and auditory.

2. **Manual Operation** It requires physical interaction (e.g., pressing a button or pulling a cord) to activate, whereas modern doorbells often use sensors or wireless triggers.

3. **Installation Constraints** While wall-mounted, it may not fit seamlessly in all entryway layouts, especially in homes with narrow doorways or tight spaces. Measurement and placement must be precise.

4. **No Customization** Unlike digital chimes, you can t change the sound or adjust volume settings. The tone is fixed to the design.

5. **Potential for Wear Over Time** High-quality as it may be, mechanical chimes can develop loose parts, dull sounds, or misalignments after years of use, requiring occasional maintenance.

6. **Less Practical for Security** Unlike smart doorbells, it doesn t alert you to visitors or provide security features, which may be a drawback for safety-conscious buyers.

7. **Price Point** As a premium decorative item, it may be more expensive than basic chimes or electronic alternatives, depending on market availability.

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### **Conclusion**

The **Rittenhouse 138-79B Door Chime (Century Mod Starburst Wall)** is an excellent choice for homeowners who prioritize **aesthetic appeal, classic design, and a simple, functional upgrade** to their entryway. Its timeless pattern and high-quality construction make it a standout decorative piece, ideal for those who appreciate vintage or traditional styles. However, if **modern convenience, security features, or smart technology** are priorities, this chime s limitations may outweigh its benefits.

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### **Recommendation**

- You love vintage or traditional decor and want a statement piece for your entryway.

- You prefer a low-maintenance, battery-free solution that enhances your home s curb appeal.

- You re willing to trade functionality for style and don t need smart features.

- You need a doorbell with security or video capabilities.

- Your home has a contemporary or minimalist aesthetic that clashes with ornate patterns.

- You re on a tight budget and could find a more practical (or equally stylish) alternative.

For most buyers, pairing this chime with a **smart doorbell** (e.g., Ring Video Doorbell) would balance its decorative charm with modern utility. If you re committed to a purely traditional setup, the Rittenhouse chime is a refined and enduring choice.

Details:

This door chime is hardwired for power and includes screws easy installation. Made of plastic and measuring 7 in length 4 width , this retro-inspired piece is sure to add a unique touch your home decor. 2 Note - 1 Chimes New in original box.

specifications doorbellsdo:

• brand: Rittenhouse
• mpn: 138-79b
• country of origin: United States
• shape: Rectangle
• power source: Hardwired
• battery included: No
• color: White
• items included: Screws
• material: Plastic
• suitable for: Home
• type: Door Chime
• connectivity: Wired
• style: Vintage/retro
• finish: Gold

seller doorbellsdo:

• # reviews: 8781
• city: Stevens Point, Wisconsin
• rating: 100.0%

offer doorbellsdo:

• quantity: 1
• sold: 0
• availability: In Stock
• started: March 20, 2026
• options: Ship-to-home

returns doorbellsdo:

• policy: No Returns

shipping doorbellsdo:

• class: Standard
• service: USPS Ground Advantage
• carrier: USPS
• transit: 4-8 Days
• cost: $8.98
• type: Fixed

payments doorbellsdo:

• wallet: Google-pay
• credit card: Diners-club
• other

general doorbellsdo:

• Building Hardware > doors Door Hardware > Doorbells
• condition: New

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