Grandfather clocks, also known as tall case or long case clocks, possess a classic elegance and can be treasured heirlooms passed down from generation to generation. In order to keep them in good working order and looking their finest, it may be necessary to consult a professional horologist who specializes in grandfather clock restoration, these skilled people can effectively bring out the beauty of the timepiece in a way which is appropriate to its age and the manner in which it was built to maintain authenticity.
At some point in time, these clocks may have had modifications made to its movements, or someone may have tried to fix it in a manner which is not suitable. When a horologist encounters such an issue, it will be necessary for him or her to remove any inappropriate pieces or bonding agents entirely, and then repeat the repair in a way that is suitable in terms of techniques and the materials used based on the age and make of the clock.
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.
The Dutch marquetry is a beautiful, detailed form of embellishment some models have which is prone to damage from aging, woodworm, or a botched repair job with the wrong patching compounds. Horologists can use an appropriate type of wood and replace both this design and the structures underneath it in a manner that is suited to the particular clock's fashion and era.
Clocks which are pre-twentieth century should not have concentric, circular graining on the chapter ring. Not only is this an uncharacteristic feature, but it can also obscure any lovely engravings on the surface. The point of restorative measures should be to return the piece to its original look as much as possible, not changing it. The fewer changes needed to be made the better it is if one wishes to keep the unique beauty of the timepiece intact.
There are some respected authorities on the handling of antiques which recommend only repairs to the clock's inner workings, and any cleaning or polishing should be avoided as these can hide the true historical character. An effective restoration should do just that, restore, not completely change it, whenever possible it's best to only fix those parts needed for the function.
Finding a horologist who believes in making as few modifications as is possible is ideal. He or she should always aim to not only use those materials which are closest to the original ones, but also remove as little of the existing materials as they can, this is important if the piece is to maintain its unique appearance. Processes such as corrosion need only be kept in check so they don't become worse.
In addition to having the right attitude about minimal changes during the process of grandfather clock restoration, a horologist must be a fully trained and qualified person who has the appropriate credentials. A diploma in antique clock restoration is the ideal background for a horologist to possess.
At some point in time, these clocks may have had modifications made to its movements, or someone may have tried to fix it in a manner which is not suitable. When a horologist encounters such an issue, it will be necessary for him or her to remove any inappropriate pieces or bonding agents entirely, and then repeat the repair in a way that is suitable in terms of techniques and the materials used based on the age and make of the clock.
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.
The Dutch marquetry is a beautiful, detailed form of embellishment some models have which is prone to damage from aging, woodworm, or a botched repair job with the wrong patching compounds. Horologists can use an appropriate type of wood and replace both this design and the structures underneath it in a manner that is suited to the particular clock's fashion and era.
Clocks which are pre-twentieth century should not have concentric, circular graining on the chapter ring. Not only is this an uncharacteristic feature, but it can also obscure any lovely engravings on the surface. The point of restorative measures should be to return the piece to its original look as much as possible, not changing it. The fewer changes needed to be made the better it is if one wishes to keep the unique beauty of the timepiece intact.
There are some respected authorities on the handling of antiques which recommend only repairs to the clock's inner workings, and any cleaning or polishing should be avoided as these can hide the true historical character. An effective restoration should do just that, restore, not completely change it, whenever possible it's best to only fix those parts needed for the function.
Finding a horologist who believes in making as few modifications as is possible is ideal. He or she should always aim to not only use those materials which are closest to the original ones, but also remove as little of the existing materials as they can, this is important if the piece is to maintain its unique appearance. Processes such as corrosion need only be kept in check so they don't become worse.
In addition to having the right attitude about minimal changes during the process of grandfather clock restoration, a horologist must be a fully trained and qualified person who has the appropriate credentials. A diploma in antique clock restoration is the ideal background for a horologist to possess.
