Restoration of E. Ingraham Grecian Watch: Focus on Case and Dial
In early 2021, a rare find was added to a collection during a staycation - the E. Ingraham Grecian 8-day time and strike shelf clock. This neoclassical beauty, over a century old, had accumulated grime and dirt but was well worth the restoration effort.
The project focused on the case and dial, as the rosewood veneer deserved to be showcased, and the off-centre dial was due to two broken securing tabs.
Firstly, the case was cleaned using a light-coloured microfiber cloth to gently remove surface dust. For wooden cases, a mild solution of distilled water and a few drops of pH-neutral soap was lightly applied on a soft cloth and wiped carefully. Avoiding soaking or harsh abrasives was crucial to preserve the original finish or patina.
A high-quality, wax-based furniture polish designed for antiques was applied to the wooden case, while metal elements were cleaned using a metal cleaner suitable for their specific type. For stubborn grime or surface dirt, a mixture of mineral spirits and linseed oil was used sparingly, but always tested on a small hidden area first.
The dial, being fragile, was cleaned with a very soft brush to remove loose dust. For painted metal dials, a barely dampened soft cotton swab in distilled water was used very gently. Avoiding abrasive cleaners and mechanical scrubbing was essential to prevent removal of paint, numerals, or markings.
Two new tabs were added to secure the dial face, and a new grommet was installed to replace a missing one. The numerals were in-painted to restore their original appearance. Two coats of shellac were applied to the case after cleaning, providing a protective layer.
It's important to note that any restoration of lacquer, paint, or gilding should be done by professionals or after thorough research. Avoiding heavy restoration that removes original finishes or markings is advisable to maintain the clock's value and integrity.
For detailed restoration or clocks with particular issues (peeling dial paint, cracked wood, etc.), consulting a specialty clock restorer is recommended. The movement of the clock will be serviced in a future post, entrusted to clockmakers experienced with antique movements like E. Ingraham.
The E. Ingraham Grecian clock, now restored, stands as a testament to the beauty and craftsmanship of antique clocks, ready to keep time for many more years to come.
The E. Ingraham Grecian clock, now restored, not only serves as a timeless piece in the home-and-garden, but also contributes to a unique vintage clocks collection, enhancing the owner's lifestyle by crafting an atmosphere that embraces history and fine craftsmanship. Carefully planned restoration techniques, such as utilizing a mild solution of distilled water and pH-neutral soap for wooden cases and a barely dampened soft cotton swab in distilled water for painted metal dials, ensure that each vintage clock retains its original charm and character.
