Regency Fusee Bracket twin train clock by W.H. Thomas of Harrogate
As you can see the case was in a very distressed state. The French polish had almost completely disintegrated, most of the brass inlay and ornamental fittings were corroded.
Most of the decorative trims were either broken or missing and the bezel hinge was so weak it couldn’t support the glass when it was opened.
The movement, which is of very high quality, wouldn’t run on either train or strike accurately and had dull surfaces on all friction areas plus dried up bearing holes in the plates. Fortunately there was no wear to the pinions, they just needed to be re-burnished.
The finished case with all brass work refinished and re-lacquered, the bezel restored and several coats of French polish to the treated Mahogany.
The dial was left in its original condition in the interests of conservation; if restored, a bright silver dial wouldn’t be in keeping with a clock of this age.
Serpentine Carriage Clock
The black and red discolouration is mix of copper and zinc oxide which had eaten away into the brass metal.
In this case the protective lacquer had completely broken down leaving the brass open to attack from oxidization over many years.
The platform cylinder escapement required attention, the jewel on the top cock was detached from the plate.
The balance spring had been pulled distorting its shape and all pivots were dry, fortunately there was no damage.
The finished clock with completely re-finished brass surfaces now protected with several coats of lacquer. Some slight marks that could just be seen were left to retain a sympathetic feel to the clocks real age, circa 1890.
