Cleaning Process for Junghans Bracket Clock: Focusing on a Silvered Dial and Shining Brass Accents
In September 2020, a 14-inch high, 10-inch wide, and 6-inch deep Junghans bracket clock from 1911 was purchased on a local online buy and sell site. This stately timepiece, with its Regency style veneered mahogany case and attractive brass accents, was a better deal compared to another clock found on the same site.
The clock, produced during the early to mid-20th century by Junghans – a prolific producer of clocks during this period – was in reasonably good condition, except for a small piece of veneer missing on the right side of the base and replacement chrome feet. The movement of the clock had already been serviced.
However, the silvered dial on the bracket clock required special attention. Silvered dials, with their delicate painted or metal finishes, can be easily damaged during cleaning. To safely clean the dial without damaging the finish, it is essential to use very gentle, non-abrasive methods.
A soft, dry microfiber cloth was used to remove dust gently. For more thorough cleaning, the cloth was lightly dampened with distilled water or a very mild solution of soap and water, avoiding soaking the dial. Abrasive cleaners, solvents, or strong chemicals were avoided, as they could strip or discolor the silvering or painted surfaces. Liquid was never applied directly to the dial; instead, it was applied to the cloth and wiped carefully.
Areas with painted or fragile numerals and markings were handled with extra care to avoid rubbing. In cases where the dial is reverse-glass painted or highly fragile, professional advice is advisable to maintain the original finish. Ultrasonic cleaning or disassembly should be carried out by a professional clock restorer to avoid harsh cleaning agents or mechanical damage.
Brass features above the base section of the clock were polished with Q-tips and Brasso (or Simichrome). Missing paint on the numerals was filled in with black acrylic paint. After cleaning with Murphy's soap and three coats of shellac, the case of the clock was freshened up.
Cleaning the dial and brass features can help restore the clock, but it is a personal choice whether to do so. It is crucial to remember that silvered dials can be easily damaged during cleaning, so it is important to be cautious. By following these recommendations, the Junghans bracket clock was successfully restored to its former glory.
While Junghans has established itself as a producer of high-quality wristwatches in recent years, this 1911 bracket clock serves as a testament to the company's historical craftsmanship and attention to detail.
The vintage Junghans bracket clock, a piece of the company's historical craftsmanship, was skillfully restored with care, transforming it into an elegant addition to any home-and-garden or lifestyle setting, blending seamlessly with the fashion-and-beauty of a vintage timepiece. The intricate silvered dial, decorated with meticulous attention, is now preserved for future appreciation, its delicate paint intact, valuable for collectors and enthusiasts of vintage clocks.
