[R-390] R-390 Knobology Question

[Barry Hauser]

This is not to be confused with past resurrections of deceased equine 
entities.  We have discussed the knobs at length here and there, but not the 
reason for the choice/design.  In particular:

The KC and MC knobs are (I believe) unique to the R-389/R-390/R-391/R-390A 
family.  The smaller knobs are similar in shape to a series of bakelite 
knobs made by Dakaware and possibly others, but are unique in that they are 
metal.  The fastening arrangement with breakatonium clamps is also fairly 
unique for the big ones (instead of set screws).

Does anyone have any background on this design element?  It would seem that 
the more common bakelite fluted knobs - such as on the R-388 would have 
sufficed -- even a bunch of "chicken head" pointer knobs for the small ones. 
Bakelite or similar would have the advantage of no paint required, and 
common knobs would be easier replacements from standard/stock items in the 
event of breakage or extreme wear.

Anybody have any idea?

Barry