Abstract: A device for opening and closing photographic cassettes or the like, which cassettes include a frame and a lid hinged to the frame. Device including a locking rod of two parts which may be moved longitudinally along one edge of the cassette by actuating means engaging the rod with the two parts thereof in longitudinal alignment or by an actuating lever pivotally secured to the cassette frame and pivotally secured to one end of one part of the two part locking rod by a lost motion connection. The device further includes hook like sets of locking elements resiliently secured to the lid along one side thereof and secured to the locking rod for automatic engagement on closure of the cassette lid which are automatically released on longitudinal movement of the locking rod against a biasing element.