Sleightful logoSleightful

Swiss Key by Nicholas Lawrence and Hansen Chien

Created by: Nicholas Lawrence, Hansen Chien

Swiss Key is a versatile magic trick that allows performers to execute a range of effects with a single gimmicked key. Primarily designed for close-up magic, it enables magicians to perform stunning bill penetrations, vanish keys, and even defy gravity with the key. The trick is built around a high-quality, durable gimmick that's nearly undetectable, making it perfect for impromptu performances. Spectators can handle the key without suspecting a thing, adding to the trick's realism. The Swiss Key is an everyday carry item that offers multiple performance options, from visual penetrations to interactive routines, making it a must-have for magicians looking to add a powerful and versatile tool to their repertoire.

Where to buy

Swiss Key by Nicholas Lawrence and Hanson Chien from Monster Magic
Monster MagicSwiss Key by Nicholas Lawrence and Hanson Chien£94.99
🇬🇧
Shop
Swiss Key by Nicholas Lawrence and Hanson Chien from Alakazam Magic
Alakazam MagicSwiss Key by Nicholas Lawrence and Hanson Chien£94.99
🇬🇧
Shop
Swiss Key by Nicholas Lawrence and Hanson Chien from Magicbox
MagicboxSwiss Key by Nicholas Lawrence and Hanson Chien£100.00
🇬🇧
Shop

Key features

  • Versatile gimmicked key enabling multiple effects

  • High-quality and durable construction

  • Nearly undetectable gimmick

  • Includes detailed online instructions

  • Perfect for impromptu performances

  • Spectators can handle the key without detecting the gimmick

Pros

  • Multiple performance options with a single gimmick

  • High-quality and durable

  • Nearly undetectable gimmick

  • Detailed instructions included

  • Great for impromptu performances

  • Spectators can handle the key

Cons

  • Requires practice to perform smoothly

  • Minor angle sensitivity during performance

  • Slightly expensive but justified by craftsmanship

Effect

Swiss Key is a versatile magic gimmick that allows performers to execute multiple effects with a single key. The primary effect involves visibly pushing a key through a borrowed bill or piece of paper, then ripping it out to reveal the bill completely restored. Additional routines include making the key float, vanish, or balance impossibly on the edge of the bill. The gimmick is designed to be undetectable, even when handed to spectators for inspection.

Full Details

Swiss Key includes:

  • A gimmicked key and a regular key (both visually identical).
  • A quick-release key ring for easy handling.
  • A detailed online tutorial (approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes) taught by Nicholas Lawrence, covering multiple routines.

The gimmick is CNC-machined for precision and durability, with a lifetime guarantee. It works with any currency (paper or polymer) and requires no pre-setup.

Who Should Consider the Trick

Swiss Key is ideal for:

  • Magicians who prefer impromptu, everyday-carry (EDC) magic.
  • Performers looking for a visual, self-contained gimmick with multiple applications.
  • Close-up and street magicians who want organic, interactive effects.

Difficulty

The trick is beginner-friendly but requires practice for smooth execution. Reviewers note that while the mechanics are simple, mastering the angles and presentation takes time. Some routines (like the "melting" penetration) demand more finesse.

What Magicians Say

  • Fiddlin' Johnny: Praises the craftsmanship and versatility, calling it "one of the best key gimmicks" but notes the need for practice. Compares it favorably to similar products like Phoenix.
  • AlexisReviews: Highlights the deceptive quality, stating even magicians struggle to spot the gimmick. Rates it 3/4 for difficulty due to angle sensitivity.
  • Roo (RoosReviews): Describes it as "the coolest key gimmick ever," emphasizing its James Bond-like utility. Loves the signed coin routine but mentions minor durability concerns with internal foam.
  • Monster Magic Shop: Calls the craftsmanship "genius" and recommends it for impromptu performances, particularly the slow "melting" penetration effect.

Swiss Key is widely regarded as a high-quality, worker-friendly tool that delivers strong visual magic with minimal setup.

What people are saying about Swiss Key

AlakazamMagicUK says...

Swiss Key is the thinnest gimmicked key for Bill penetration ever made in Magic history. Each piece has been meticulously crafted using CNC technology ensuring Precision craftsmanship and durability.

AlexisReviews says...

Swiss Key is a tool that will allow you to perform multiple effects from the key through Bill effect to the levitation or suspension effect. The craftsmanship on this is amazing.

fiddlinjonny says...

Swiss Key is another variation of an everyday carry with beautiful props. The props with this one are really really nice and I think it's worthy of an honorable mention on the list this year.

monstermagicshop says...

Swiss Key is the Swiss army knife of key effects. It is really really good for that bill penetration for the going through the bank note it is perfect.

RoosReviews says...

Swiss Key is the coolest key gimmick I’ve ever seen. This is Batman’s utility tool for key magic. It's a versatile tool with multiple applications, especially for performers who enjoy organic, off-the-cuff magic.

Review videos

Promotional videos