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Classic Hammond consoles, such as the B3, C3 and A-100, have keys with flat fronts and a slightly radiused edge. These are often referred to as 'waterfall' keys because of their resemblance in profile. The original model A and many other models prior to the '3' series had flat-fronted keys but without a radiused edge.
Of the spinet organs, only the M-series had waterfall keys. As with the consoles, only the M '3' series has radiused edges.
WaterfallKeys are preferred by non-classical organists because they're easier to play slides (glissandi) on. Unlike a thumb gliss, non-classical organists will often palm smear up and into a chord. This exposes the webbing between the thumb and forefinger to the sharp edges of other types of keys. As a special effect, they are also easier to jamb a matchbook in front to hold down a key while playing elsewhere...
See also DivingBoardKeys
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