Refurbishing a Junghans bracket clock - Revitalizing a silvered dial and brass embellishments
In September 2020, a stately bracket clock by Junghans from 1911 was discovered on a local online buy and sell site. The Junghans bracket clock, with its mahogany veneer and attractive brass accents, is a prolific producer of clocks from the early to mid-20th century.
The clock, standing 14 inches high by 10 inches wide by 6 inches deep, came with a carrying handle and a missing numeral or two on the silvered dial. The missing numerals were filled in with black acrylic paint.
To safely clean the delicate silvered clock dial, gentle and non-abrasive methods were employed. A soft, dry microfiber cloth or very lightly dampened soft cloth with distilled water was used to gently wipe away dust or loose dirt. If necessary, a mild solution of distilled water with a drop of gentle soap (like baby shampoo), applied sparingly with a soft cotton swab or cloth, was used. Any abrasive cleaners, commercial silver polishes, or solvents were avoided, as they can remove or damage the silver coating.
The dial was much improved but not perfect after cleaning with mild liquid soap and Q-tips. The brass features above the base section were polished with Q-tips and Brasso (or Simichrome).
In recent years, Junghans has established itself as a prominent manufacturer of high-quality wristwatches. However, the Junghans bracket clock from 1911 required a small change to make a big difference. Unfortunately, the specifics of this change remain undisclosed.
The movement of the clock has been serviced, ensuring its smooth operation. The feet of the clock are different in the last photo, but the reason for this will be discussed in another context.
For valuable or fragile silvered dials, consulting a professional clock restorer or conservator specializing in silvered dials is advisable. They can use appropriate conservation techniques invisible to non-experts.
In summary, gentle dusting and minimal, mild damp cleaning with soft materials is the safest way to clean a silvered clock dial without damaging the silver layer. This cautious approach reflects best practices for conserving original silvered finishes, as discussed in horological and clock restoration communities where improper cleaning can irreversibly damage dial surfaces.
The vintage Junghans bracket clock, acquired from a local online market, is not only a precious addition to one's home-and-garden decor but also a testament to the pursuit of stylish lifestyle – a blend of fashion-and-beauty and home-and-garden aesthetics. With its timeless design, this 1911 piece by Junghans could potentially augment various vintage clocks collections, elevating the collection's value as a symbolic manifestation of a past era's craftsmanship.
