An antique clock placed in a hostile envioronment, i.e., attic, basement, storage unit, for many years, will take on an appearance not intended by its original manufacturer. The extent of the deterioration will depend on the contaminants encountered. Even a mantel with its beautiful warm fireplace will alter the condition of a fine antique clock. Cases, however, whether wood, marble or metal, will rarely need to be completley stripped of their original finish.
Modern methods have allowed cases to be restored to their original luster and blemishes removed without using drastic measures and harsh ingredients. Each clock is analyzed to determine which cleaning and polishing method will safely bring it back to its original condition in order to enhance its appearance and value. Hidden areas will disclose original colors and catalogue photos will show correct details when extensive work is needed.
Our first consideration is to protect the clock's originality. No movement, bezel or dial is ever separated or substituted under the term "restoration." All components made together, stay together. Every component of an antique clock with the proper "know-how" can be restored to its original standard. It is accepted that pendulums and keys are easily lost over the years and may not be original.
Only one half of this old Gilbert "Noah" clock was restored in order to show "Before" and "After." We use it in our display at trade and regional shows. It is a powerful example of how proper restoration can enhance the beauty as well as the value of the clock.
DIAL RESTORATION
Dials are only completely restored when their condition lowers the value of the clock. Otherwise, conservation methods are used to enhance the appearance and prevent further deterioriation. Dials are always restored to original standards, i.e., pure silverplate, gold gilt over brass, painted with inked numbers, or paper. Bezels are cleaned to remove contaminants, then polished and lacquered.
The above photograph is of a silver dial from a Seth Thomas mantel clock. The dial is in very poor condition, with extensive rust and pitting. The photograph below is the same dial following our resilvering process and the restoration of the numbers.
The white painted dial below did not warrant complete repainting, but was touched-up in the chipped areas, numerals restored and the entire dial lacquered to prevent further deterioration.
Before
The paper dial had the paper section replaced and the gold gilt, stamped brass dial mask was cleaned to remove the contaminants and regilded.
Other restoration services include reverse painting, brass polishing, regilding and mechanical repairs.
Many cottage, steeple and ogee clocks have reverse paintings that have flaked or are missing all together. The new painting is created, if missing, according to original catalogue prints, or the present painting is conserved. Each method employs the use of gold leaf, gold powder, oils and varnish using the techniques of the original masters.
Brass polishing includes bezels, pendulum bobs, weights, dials and even cases. The contaminants are removed based on the safest method necessary, i.e., non-scratching, etc. When clean, the proper polish is applied and the brass is lacquered to prevent retarnishing.
Many ormolu clocks, clock dials, dial sashes and decorations were gilted years ago using a process that was outlawed around 1900 as the gilders were suffering mercurial poisoning. Today, we are able to apply a 24K gold gel or 18K gold leaf to these pieces using a new process and modern technology.
Mechanical restorations include overhauls and gear cutting when teeth are missing or a new gear is needed. Movements are dismantled, cleaned in a non-abrasive solution, rebushed when needed, pivots polished, reassembled and oiled. All overhauled movements are tested and adjusted.
For further information or questions regarding a clock or part you would like restored, please contact:
