There is a certain nostalgic charm about grandfather clocks and they are often valued family heirlooms. Also called long case or tall case clocks, these grand timepieces will usually require the services of a horologist, an expert in the care of clocks and grandfather clock restoration with the skills and know-how to keep them functioning and in good condition without sacrificing their authenticity.
In some cases, there may have been changes made to the workings or someone may have attempted to fix it but did not do so in a suitable manner. During restorations, horologists will frequently run into these issues. Various inappropriate substances are used for repairs such as solder, types of metal, and glues. These will need to be removed and replaced with those which are more suited to the age and style of the timepiece.
It can be a very complex procedure to repair the intricate workings and movements, but in some cases this is needed. Broken parts will need to be possibly re-made and the dial made need to be restored. Cases may require re-veneering, new mouldings, or extra length added on if this had been modified at some point.
Some tall case clocks have a particular type of detailing on their cases known as Dutch marquetry. This embellishment is often susceptible to damage from aging, woodworm infestation, or an unprofessional repair with the wrong substances. A horologist can fully restore the marquetry to its former beauty by using the proper type of wood to replace the design itself and structures underneath.
The chapter ring should not be modified in a way that involves concentric graining, as this detail is not consistent with any clocks manufactured prior to the twentieth century and it can actually conceal surface engravings. The objective of a restoration is to end up with a timepiece that is working and maintains its original appearance.
There are some respected antique authorities that are of the opinion that it is best not to subject such an exquisite, old timepiece to any type of cleaning or polishing, as they diminishes its unique historical character. A good restoration is generally one which is not as noticeable, other than the fact that the clock is working.
A horologist should always strive to maintain original qualities with minimum adjustments. The materials used in the work should be the same or as similar as is possible to the originals, and a minimal amount of the existing materials should be eliminated as to preserve the appearance. If a natural process such as corrosion has started, it should be prevented from worsening.
Besides offering conservative grandfather clock restoration, and taking an approach which strives to keep these delightful antiques in great shape without overdoing the modifications, the chosen horologist also needs the proper credentials. The most appropriate training being an antique clock restoration diploma from a recognized institution.
In some cases, there may have been changes made to the workings or someone may have attempted to fix it but did not do so in a suitable manner. During restorations, horologists will frequently run into these issues. Various inappropriate substances are used for repairs such as solder, types of metal, and glues. These will need to be removed and replaced with those which are more suited to the age and style of the timepiece.
It can be a very complex procedure to repair the intricate workings and movements, but in some cases this is needed. Broken parts will need to be possibly re-made and the dial made need to be restored. Cases may require re-veneering, new mouldings, or extra length added on if this had been modified at some point.
Some tall case clocks have a particular type of detailing on their cases known as Dutch marquetry. This embellishment is often susceptible to damage from aging, woodworm infestation, or an unprofessional repair with the wrong substances. A horologist can fully restore the marquetry to its former beauty by using the proper type of wood to replace the design itself and structures underneath.
The chapter ring should not be modified in a way that involves concentric graining, as this detail is not consistent with any clocks manufactured prior to the twentieth century and it can actually conceal surface engravings. The objective of a restoration is to end up with a timepiece that is working and maintains its original appearance.
There are some respected antique authorities that are of the opinion that it is best not to subject such an exquisite, old timepiece to any type of cleaning or polishing, as they diminishes its unique historical character. A good restoration is generally one which is not as noticeable, other than the fact that the clock is working.
A horologist should always strive to maintain original qualities with minimum adjustments. The materials used in the work should be the same or as similar as is possible to the originals, and a minimal amount of the existing materials should be eliminated as to preserve the appearance. If a natural process such as corrosion has started, it should be prevented from worsening.
Besides offering conservative grandfather clock restoration, and taking an approach which strives to keep these delightful antiques in great shape without overdoing the modifications, the chosen horologist also needs the proper credentials. The most appropriate training being an antique clock restoration diploma from a recognized institution.
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