The HAC/HAU shelved clock, despite its appeal, requires some modifications to its dial.
In the world of antique and vintage clocks, the Hamburg American Clock Company (HAC) stands out as a renowned German manufacturer, with its best-known trademark being the "crossed arrows" symbol found on the movement plate and the coil gong. Recently, a collector acquired a HAC clock in an estate auction, which features a tarnished and worn dial, covered in 100 years of oil, grease, and grime.
Here's a step-by-step guide on how to clean and restore such a dial:
- Remove the Dial Carefully Before cleaning, carefully remove the clock movement and dial from the case to avoid damage. Photograph the clock from all angles for reference during reassembly.
- Assess the Dial Material Clock dials from HAC clocks may be made of metal, enamel, or painted surfaces. Identifying the material is critical since harsh cleaners or abrasion can damage delicate finishes.
- Gentle Cleaning
- Use a very soft brush or microfiber cloth to remove loose dust and dirt.
- For metal dials with tarnish, mild soap and distilled water applied with a soft cloth are preferred. Avoid soaking the dial or using abrasive materials.
- For painted or printed dials, avoid any liquid cleaners; instead, try a dry cleaning sponge designed for delicate surfaces.
- Tarnish Removal For metal dials (often brass):
- Use a specialized brass or metal polish sparingly and only on areas where paint or numbers are not present.
- Test in an inconspicuous area to ensure it does not remove any surface printing or finish.
- Avoid polishing the entire dial aggressively; this might thin original paint or markings.
- Restoration Considerations
- If the dial paint or numerals are worn, consider professional restoration by a clock dial restoration expert, who can carefully retouch or re-enameled dials to preserve value.
- DIY repainting or overcleaning risks reducing collectibility of an antique HAC clock.
After cleaning and/or restoration, carefully reassemble the clock. Avoid fingerprints and moisture on the dial during handling.
Though specific step-by-step instructions exclusive to an HAC dial might not be readily available, general antique clock restoration advice from reputable clock collectors and repair sources consistently recommend gentle, minimal intervention and consulting professionals for significant dial wear or damage.
If you are inexperienced, it is advisable to seek a professional clock restorer specializing in vintage German clocks like those from Hamburg American Clock Company.
[1]: Link to related article about general antique clock restoration tips [5]: Link to related article about a mantel clock owned by a family member
Subscribing to our website will receive the latest posts via email. Share this article on your favourite social media platforms!
Additional related articles: - An article discussing a shelf clock from Hamburg American Clock Co. - A historical journey of Hamburg Amerikanische Uhrenfabrik.
In the realm of interior-design, antique and vintage clocks like those from the Hamburg American Clock Company (HAC) serve as distinctive pieces, enhancing the vintage-themed decor in home-and-garden settings. Restoring a tarnished HAC clock dial involves gentle cleaning methods, depending on the dial material, to preserve its original appeal and lifestyle value.
