Science Buddies: "Ask an Expert"

I want to make a binary calculator using logic gates. I have worked with transistors in the past, and my question is: could I create a logic gate without a semiconductor transistor? My theory is to make a ferrous object on a hinge that can be raised or lowered depending on the whether an electromagnet is on or off. Would this theory work? For my project I only want to visualize how a logic gate works.