Antique clocks are a sought-after crown gem clock enthusiasts and fans of traditional décor. These elegant mechanical clocks, pendulum clock and early quartz clocks will await impressive in any dwelling house.

Proper care for quondam clocks is important. They are valuable instruments fabricated of materials that require regular maintenance to expect and part properly. Our antique clock example cleaning guide demonstrates how to restore a wooden or brass Chelsea Clock vintage clock outside and offers a few other tips for archetype clock preservation.

Cleaning a Vintage Wood Clock Example

Many old clock cases are night and dirty from years of dust collection, article of furniture polish build-up and potentially fifty-fifty smoke damage. Still, the original finish is probable below it all. The goal is getting the clay off without likewise removing the refined end.

If yous can't find a product specifically formulated for cleaning clock cases, we've establish Mr. Clean works very well. (Do not use whatsoever cleaner with a pH about 7.0, as this will continue eating at the surface afterward you're done cleaning.) Add some Mr. Clean to a super-fine steel wool pad, soft-bristle brush or cotton swab and gently scrub using a round motion until the wood grain reappears.

Once yous've restored the original finish, regular cleaning and polishing will maintain the luster. Simply rubbing the case with a soft cotton textile volition remove dust and surface dirt. For polishing, apply a wood finishing wax of your choice with a cotton cloth or soft-bristle brush. Avoid silicone-based spray polishes; these exit an intense shine only clog the pores and grain in the process.

Antique Wall Clock

How to Clean Antique Contumely Clocks and Watches

Even the most tarnished, blackened brass clock example tin exist restored to its original luster. To clean off the tarnish, you must start remove the existing lacquer. The protective clear coat applied during the clock-making process frequently doesn't wear evenly, leading to splotches on the case. Evenly brush on a paint-stripper paste to take off the lacquer (examination a pocket-size patch beginning to make sure it works). After the surface has dried, use brass polish using a soft cotton wool cleaning cloth following the production instructions.

Afterward the case is restored, you lot accept three choices: add a new lacquer coat, keep to polish regularly or let the natural dark patina build evenly. If you prefer the aged look of contumely patina, you tin can still clean your contumely clock case without taking off this oxide layer. The simplest way to practice this is with a liquid detergent free of ammonia and acids or with the organic solvent acetone.

Other Tips for Antique Clock Care

  • Always handle vintage clocks delicately.
  • Oil the mechanism every iv to five years and go total service done every 10 years.
  • Don't position your clock near a fireplace, radiator, directly sunlight or any other place where extreme temperatures and humidity are possible.
  • Keep the clock running. If left idle, the parts dry up and often crave service to get running again.
  • When adjusting the time, always exercise and then in a clockwise management.

By following this guide, you lot can keep decades-old clocks looking exquisite for many more decades. If you're looking for a new slice, visit our antique and vintage clock collection to come across what's available. We also offer full repair and restoration services if your vintage clock needs more extensive work.