Introduction
This article summarizes the conditions and repair steps as presented. The restoration focused on a Seth Thomas black mantel clock dated 1900, including movement care, case cleaning, hardware treatment, and preservation of original components.
Initial Condition and Early Steps
Clock history
The clock had not run for over 30 years and was fully wound but non‑functional when acquired.
First adjustments
After dusting and lightly oiling pivots and springs, the clock required raising one side to determine crutch adjustment direction.
Extended test run
Once adjusted, the clock ran for 10 days, allowing the springs to unwind gradually.
Movement removal
The Hip movement (3‑5/8") was removed months later for deeper servicing.
Letting down the springs
A let‑down tool was used to safely release spring tension while the springs remained in the movement.
Movement Cleaning and Inspection
Spring cleaning
Springs were cleaned with solvent between the leaves, re‑oiled, and cycled multiple times to distribute lubricant.
Safety clamps
Springs were wound enough to install C‑ring safety clamps, then released to retain power.
Plate and pivot care
An electronic solvent was used to clean around pivot holes, followed by pegging and plate wiping.
Oil application
Pivots were oiled with Whitlocks Synthetic Clock Oil.
Escape wheel condition
The escape wheel pivot hole showed very little wear, likely due to decades of inactivity.
Case Disassembly and Cleaning
Case construction details
The case appeared never to have been disassembled before, with clean screw slots and factory paint over the screw heads.
Hardware tagging
All screws and hardware were labeled and organized during disassembly.
Adamantine cleaning
Gojo (original formula without pumice) was applied repeatedly using rags, paper towels, and soft brushes to clean the Adamantine finish.
Engraving cleaning
A soft nylon brush helped clean engraved areas and reveal gold detailing.
Wax application
A thin coat of Brazilian pure Carnauba wax was applied for protection after cleaning.
Metal Hardware Treatment
Initial cleaning
Metal parts were soaked in Dawn dishwashing liquid before further cleaning.
Mild abrasive cleaning
Baking soda with white vinegar or lemon juice was used to gently clean copper‑plated and brass components.
Brush selection
A brass wire brush was used initially, switching to a toothbrush if scratching occurred.
Rinsing and drying
Parts were rinsed in warm water, followed by alcohol, and allowed to dry thoroughly.
Lacquer protection
Krylon clear lacquer was applied to feet, lions, and other hardware to prevent tarnish.
Dial and Bezel Preservation
Paper dial care
The original paper dial was cleaned carefully with brushes and cotton swabs without soaking.
Bezel construction
The dial was sandwiched between a gilt bezel and a zinc back, held together by four solder points.
Bezel cleaning
The brass outer rim was cleaned and coated with clear lacquer to prevent tarnish.
Glass care
Lacquer accidentally applied to the glass was removed with lacquer thinner.
Dial assembly preservation
The bezel and dial assembly was left intact to avoid damaging the original paper dial.
Case Construction Observations
Factory craftsmanship
The case featured precise mitered and mortised joints, with only one glued connection.
Painted screw heads
Interior screws had been painted over at the factory, confirming originality.
Non‑removable screws
Two screws sealed with putty or epoxy were left in place due to no benefit in removing them.
Zinc back details
The zinc back showed fine grit accumulation consistent with other original Seth Thomas clocks.
Hardware aging
Some hardware showed copper plating and age‑appropriate fading.
FAQs
How was the movement cleaned?
Springs were let down, cleaned, oiled, and cycled; plates and pivots were cleaned and oiled.
What was used to clean the Adamantine finish?
Gojo (original formula without pumice) followed by Carnauba wax.
How were metal parts treated?
Mild abrasives, Dawn soaking, and clear lacquer for protection.
Was the paper dial removed?
No, it was cleaned in place to avoid damage.
How original was the case?
Screw condition, paint, and construction indicated it had never been disassembled before.
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