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Expert: Martin Meyer - 12/8/2008


Question

clock front
I have acquired an old mantel clock, has some greenish discoloration on top and some reddish colors throughout, would like to know what to clean it with?  Also, don't have the key to wind it, any ideas.

The only thing I see on the bottom is a partial label that says Waterbury Clock Co. Waterbury, Ct, and above that is the partial of VIBORG.

Would like to know what year and a value if you can.

Thank you so much for your time.

Lisa

Answer
Hi Lisa,

Cleaning, polishing or refinishing this type of antique figural clock is an extremely risky undertaking, and I would strongly discourage it. These clocks are made of brass or white metal, and usually thinly gilded for their gold-tone finish. Any use of cleaning or polishing solutions can cause severe damage, removing both the gilding and the patina of age. This type of work should always be done by a professional metal refinisher. The reddish color is probably normal aging. At most, you might be able to remove the green verdegris corrosion by gently rubbing with a damp cloth. But even this has the possibility of leaving shiny and/or smooth areas that stand out from the even patina of the rest of the clock. This is a fine clock with a genuine porcelain dial, and you wouldn't want to decrease its value in any way.

Winding keys are available from any clock supply house. To get the best fit, I would recommend getting several keys close to the size that you think is correct, and seeing which one fits best. "Commercial grade" keys are quite inexpensive, so getting several shouldn't be a problem.

As I explain in my Allexperts profile, I do not do appraisals or valuation.  http://www.clockmasteronline.com

Martin Meyer

Expertise

Can answer repair and service questions for most types of clocks, antique and modern, mechanical and battery. NO watches, appraisals, identification, history, dating, or questions about cuckoo clocks. Website for Modern and Antique Clock Repair: Clockmasteronline.com

Experience

24 Years as owner and repairman of clock repair business, 28 years in the field. Factory Independent Service Center for Howard Miller, Ridgeway and (formerly) Sligh Clocks. Specializing in Fine Antique Longcase (grandfather) clocks. Clock repair Website: (Please remove "Not" from the address - this is a spam protection): www.NotClockmasteronline.com

Organizations
AWCI (American Watchmakers and Clockmakers Institute) and NAWCC (National Association of Watch and Clock Collectors)

Publications
Am also an Expert in the "AllExperts-Antiques-Antique Clocks" Category.

Education/Credentials
Trained by a former Rolex Asia watchmaker, and by a Master Watchmaker/Clockmaker.

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