Who We Are

Securing Your World

As a trusted leader in security solutions, America relies on Detex Corporation for high-quality, customized security products designed to perform reliably over the long term. Dedicated defenders of businesses nationwide, our products empower customers to manage the unexpected and keep their operations running smoothly. With decades of security expertise, a commitment to American-made quality, ongoing innovation, and tailored solutions, we provide more than just reliable protection—we deliver proactive security that anticipates your needs and relentlessly safeguards what matters most.

Our Beliefs

To be the world’s leading manufacturer of security products that proactively protect the people, products, property, and the profits of our customers.

We will enhance customer success in our worldwide Life Safety, Security and Security Assurance markets by providing products and services that offer unique value while increasing the return on shareholder investment.

We earn the trust of our customers by providing a higher level of security that can be counted on for the long-term. We stand by our customers, we stand by our word.

We are upfront and frank about security, we don’t upsell but instead assure the right solution for each customer.

We define security excellence and deliver on our promise of being relentless defenders every day.

We innovate to ensure customers get the optimal security solution for their needs, while embracing sustainability. We will enhance customer success in our worldwide Life Safety, Security and Security Assurance markets by providing products and services that offer unique value while increasing the return on shareholder investment.

Our Dedication to Customer Support

Whether you require technical support, need to connect with a local salesperson, or simply want updates on our product offerings, Detex is always here for you.  We provide expert support from a single phone number in the USA.

Our Commitment to Sustainability

Detex products have undergone multiple certification processes and are now awarded Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs), Sustainability Reports, and Health Product Declarations (HPDs). These certifications support our customers in achieving their LEED certification goals. In addition to LEED, Detex can assist project teams in obtaining other certifications such as WELL, BREEAM, and the Living Building Challenge.

A self-published report conducted by third party consultants which describes the sustainability actives of Detex in accordance with the Global Reporting Initiative. Contributes to the LEED MRc3 credit by including raw material extraction locations for specific Detex products at greater than 90% threshold.

Our History

The original Detex building located in Chicago.

Detex Corporation originated from a company founded in 1878 by Abraham A. Newman, initially specializing in stationary watchclocks. In 1923, it merged with Watchman’s Clock and Supply Company, Eco Clock Company, and the Watch Clock Division of Hardinge Brothers, Inc. After this consolidation, the company was renamed Newman Watchclock Corporation, which was later rebranded as Detex Watchclock Corporation.

Through the years, Detex continued to manufacture and distribute Watchman’s Clock Systems until 1963, when it introduced a new line of security hardware. In 1990, Detex formed a partnership with Securiton Electronics, which merged into G4S Technology, and became the exclusive distributor of the “GCS” line of electronic guard tour systems in North America. In 1993, Detex acquired F Systems, expanding the ability of both companies to offer integrated security solutions to the safety and security requirements.

Today, with decades years of experience, Detex is a global leader in security and an innovative manufacturer of the industry’s most advanced life safety and security products.

Our History

First Phase Of Construction Completed

The first phase of construction was completed. This phase renovated the office and expanded the factory floor space. Overall, Detex more than doubled production space.

Celebrating 100 Years

Detex celebrated 100 years of business on June 4, 2023.

Building Expansion Begins

In 2023, Detex began the process of expanding its headquarters in New Braunfels. The goals of this were to expand production and bring DSI and Detex into the same building.

Electronic Guard Tour Discontinued

Detex discontinued electronic guard tour products. This ended a century of service in the guard tour/security watchman industry.

Mechanical Watchclock Production Discontinued

2011 marked the end of an era when Detex discontinued the manufacture of the mechanical watchclock. Support would continue for another 10 years.

AO19 line acquired

In February 2008, Detex Corporation entered into an OEM agreement with Lockman Peck, LLC to sell a Detex branded, low energy, heavy duty automatic door operator named the AO19 Series. In 2009, Detex fully acquired the line.

Advantex Introduced

Detex introduced the Advantex exit devices to the market in 1999. These products opened new market opportunities for Detex Corporation as we entered the new millennium.

F Systems Renamed

Detex renamed F Systems Incorporated to Designed Security Inc. (DSI).

F Systems Incorporated Acquired

Detex acquired F Systems in 1993. This acquisition expanded the ability of both companies to offer integrated security solutions to the safety and security requirements in the markets we serve.

New Braunfels Facility Completed

Construction on the Detex facility in New Braunfels is completed and operations in Texas begins.

Detex Breaks Ground In New Braunfels

Detex broke ground in 1980 for its over 50,000 square foot facility.

Detex Makes The Decision To Move To New Braunfels

The decision to move to New Braunfels, Texas was made in October 1978. This move would consolidate the Chicago headquarters and manufacturing operation and the New York City financial operation into one building.

Detex Diversifies Into Builders Hardware

Detex enters the builders hardware field, introducing products designed primarily for providing safe egress from and controlled access into industrial, commercial, institutional and educational buildings.

Detex Corporation Incorporated

Detex Corporation was officially incorporated in Delaware. Multiple companies – including Detex Watchclock Corporation, Newman Clock Company, Watchman’s Clock Works, Eco Magnetic Clock Company, Hardinge Brothers, and Eco Clock Company – came together to create Detex as we know it today.