Skip to content
Lifestyle — All about home & garden. — All about home improvement.

Refurbishing an 1850s Scottish Highland tower clock cage - Sequel

Revisiting the restoration process of an 1850s Scottish tall case clock, featuring an English bell strike, is detailed in this blog post. This is the second part of a two-part series. Catch up on Part I by following this link. Although the clock's case is crafted in Scotland, the clock's...

,   and  Administrator
3 min read
Refurbishing an 1850s Scottish high tower clock casing - Segment II
Refurbishing an 1850s Scottish high tower clock casing - Segment II

Refurbishing an 1850s Scottish Highland tower clock cage - Sequel

The floor of the basement where the work was done was not level, causing some challenges during the process, but the end result was a beautifully restored 1850s Scottish tall case clock with an English bell strike. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

Refinishing and Repairing Process

Preparation and Cleaning

  1. Protect the surroundings: Cover the floor and any nearby items with drop cloths or old sheets to prevent damage from dust and chemicals.
  2. Remove hardware: Take off all hardware such as door handles, hinges, and any other metal components.
  3. Clean the case: Use a soft-bristled brush to remove loose dust. Then, gently wipe the case down with a damp cloth to remove dirt and grime. Avoid using harsh chemicals that might damage the finish.
  4. Strip old finish (if necessary): If the case has a worn or damaged finish, consider stripping it using a furniture stripper. Always follow safety instructions and test on a small area first.

Refinishing the Case

  1. Sand the case: Use progressively finer grits of sandpaper to smooth out the wood. Start with coarse (about 80-100 grit) and work your way up to fine (220-240 grit).
  2. Apply a wood conditioner: If the wood is particularly porous or uneven, apply a wood conditioner to ensure a uniform finish.
  3. Stain and seal: Apply a stain that matches the original color as closely as possible, and then seal with a protective clear finish such as polyurethane or varnish.

Installing New Door Pins

  1. Remove old pins: Gently pry out the old door pins if they are still intact.
  2. Clean the pin holes: Use a small brush or a drill bit to clean out any debris from the pin holes.
  3. Cut new pins: Measure and cut new metal pins to fit snugly into the holes.
  4. Install the new pins: Use a small amount of wood glue to secure the pins in place.

Fashioning a Missing Foot

  1. Measure and design: Measure the existing feet and design a new one that matches their style and size.
  2. Cut the wood: Use a saw to cut a piece of wood that matches the material of the clock case.
  3. Shape and sand: Use a combination of chisels and sandpaper to shape and smooth the new foot.
  4. Attach the foot: Use wood glue and possibly screws or nails hidden from view to secure the foot to the clock case.

Additional Repairs (e.g., English Bell Strike)

  1. Inspect the movement: Ensure the mechanical components are clean and free of debris. Lubricate pivot points with clock oil if necessary.
  2. Adjust bell strike mechanism: Check the bell strike mechanism for proper alignment and function. Adjust as necessary.

Final Touches

  1. Reinstall hardware: Put back all hardware such as door handles and hinges.
  2. Touch up: If necessary, touch up any areas where the finish may have been damaged during the process.
  3. Final inspection: Inspect the clock thoroughly to ensure all repairs are complete and functional.

Additional Tips

  • Consult with a professional if you're unsure about any part of the process.
  • Use traditional restoration techniques to maintain the clock's historical integrity.
  • Keep detailed records and photographs of your work for future reference.
  • The backboard repair on the clock is questionable.
  • The clock was purchased from an estate auction in early 2020.
  • The movement, dial, and weights of the clock are from Birmingham, England.
  • The clock was purchased in fair condition from an estate auction in early 2020.
  • Both upper and lower door pins were missing from the clock.
  • No evidence was found about the original top finials of the clock.
  • Age cracks on the case are left untouched, considered part of the clock's character.
  • The final step in the restoration process is the installation of new top finials.
  • Brass ball finials were added to the corners of the bonnet.
  • The clock in question is an 1850s period Scottish tall case clock with an English bell strike.
  • The right rear foot of the case was missing and had to be replaced.
  • Authentic repair is the ultimate goal for purists, but discrete and careful repairs may not concern future owners.
  • The case was cleaned with Murphy's Soap and refinished with three coats of traditional amber shellac.
  • The clock restoration work included installing new door pins, fashioning a missing right rear foot, cleaning the case, overall case refinishing, polishing the bonnet door access knob and the lower access door hinges, and adding finials.
  • Wood screws were used as replacements for the missing door pins.
  • New repairs are now part of the history of the 1850s Scottish tall case clock.
  • Modern repairs may affect the value and desirability of a clock for some collectors.
  • The clock restoration work included cleaning, refinishing, installing new door pins, fashioning a missing right rear foot, polishing certain parts, and adding finials.

Read also:

Related

Latest