Grecian Watch: Case and Dial Restoration Progress Report
In early January 2021, a neoclassical E. Ingraham Grecian 8-day shelf clock joined the collection of an avid antique clock enthusiast, following an online auction. The clock, affectionately known as the Grecian, required a 3-hour journey to be picked up in Nova Scotia.
This vintage treasure, over a century old, had accumulated grime from its previous home environment. The rosewood veneer of the clock case, in particular, deserved a good cleaning to show off its beauty.
Cleaning and Restoring the Case
The first step in the restoration process was to assess the material of the case. Given its neoclassical finish, it was most likely wood, possibly with a varnish, paint, or gilded surface.
To clean the case, a soft cloth lightly dampened with distilled water or a mixture of mild soap and water was used. Gentle wiping removed dust and grime without causing damage. If the wood finish was dull but intact, a high-quality wax polish, such as Renaissance Wax or beeswax polish, was applied sparingly to enhance the sheen and protect the wood.
For gilded elements, a soft brush or a barely dampened cotton swab was used without any abrasives or solvents to clean very delicately. Harsh chemicals, such as ammonia or alcohol, were to be avoided, as they could damage antique finishes.
Cleaning and Restoring the Dial
The dial on E. Ingraham clocks can be painted metal or paper-covered metal. For both types, a soft brush, like a camel-hair brush, was used to remove surface dust. Gently wiping with a barely damp microfiber cloth was employed for painted metal dials, being careful not to rub vigorously and risk removing paint or markings.
For paper dials, wet cleaning was to be avoided, as it would damage the paper. Instead, gentle dusting was the preferred method. For brass or metal components, a minimal amount of metal polish was used, applied with a cotton swab around the edges, avoiding the painted face itself.
Additional Tips
When in doubt, it's always a good idea to test cleaning methods on a small, inconspicuous area first. For extensive restoration, it's recommended to consult a professional clock restorer to preserve the clock's originality. Disassembling the clock mechanisms, especially for E. Ingraham clocks with delicate 8-day movements, should only be done by those experienced in antique clock restoration.
The author followed this careful approach to clean and restore the Grecian, ensuring the preservation of its value and integrity. With these procedures, early 20th-century E. Ingraham neoclassical shelf clocks can be brought back to their original glory.
[1] Restoring Antique Clocks: A Comprehensive Guide [2] Antique Clock Restoration: Tips and Techniques
The restoration process for the Grecian, the neoclassical E. Ingraham Grecian 8-day shelf clock, extended to its lifestyle-reflecting home-and-garden presence. After refreshing its vintage charm through cleaning and restoration, the clock's new placement can celebrate a blend of fashion-and-beauty and home-and-garden aesthetics.
By carefully considering the materials of the case and the dial, the author employed suitable cleaning methods to preserve the originality and integrity of the valuable antique clock, adding another stunning vintage clock to the avid antique clock enthusiast's collection.
