Redesigned HAC/HAU wall clock aesthetically pleasing, yet requires attention to its functional dial.
In the world of antique and vintage clocks, owning a piece from the Hamburg American Clock Company (HAC) is a treasure trove for any collector. This article shares the journey of restoring a first-in-collection HAC clock, purchased online at an estate auction in February of 2021.
The dial of the clock was in a particularly bad state, covered in grime, tarnish, and worn paint. To bring it back to life, drastic measures were taken, including cleaning with Q-tips and a cleaning solution, stripping the cream-colored paint, and filling in the numbers with water-based acrylic black paint and a fine-tipped artist's brush.
Despite the extensive cleaning, the original patina of the dial was retained to some extent. The dial came out marginally better after cleaning, but its historic character was not lost.
For those seeking to clean their own HAC clocks, here are some recommended approaches:
- Gentle Dry Cleaning: Begin with very gentle dry methods such as using a soft brush (like a fine artist’s paintbrush) or a microfiber cloth to remove loose dust and dirt without scratching the dial surface.
- Mild Cleaning Solution: If the dial is painted or enameled, use a very mild solution of distilled water with a tiny drop of mild detergent. Lightly dab with a soft cotton swab or cloth, avoid soaking, and test on an inconspicuous spot first. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasives that can damage paint or surface finishes.
- Avoid Abrasives and Solvents: Do not use abrasives, alcohol, ammonia, or commercial metal polishes, as these can remove the original finish or paint on the dial.
- Handling Tarnished Metal Elements: If the dial incorporates brass or other metal components, consider gentle polishing with a specialized metal cleaner suited for antiques, but only if you are certain it won’t harm surrounding dial materials.
- Professional Restoration Advice: For valuable or fragile HAC dials, it is advisable to consult a professional clock restorer or conservator who can provide specialized treatment without risking damage.
Remember, Hamburg American Clock Company dials are often delicate and may have unique finishes, so careful, minimal intervention is key to preserving their historic condition.
This article is part of our ongoing series on antique clocks, all of which can be found under the "antique" category on our website. Subscribing to our website will receive the latest posts via email. We also offer links to share the content on various social media platforms.
In related articles, we delve deeper into the history and specifics of a clock movement from the Hamburg Amerikanische Uhrenfabrik, discuss a mantel clock owned by a family member, and explore a Hamburg American Clock Co. shelf clock.
As always, our articles do not contain any advertisements, ensuring a pure focus on the history, restoration, and appreciation of antique clocks. Happy restoring!
After carefully cleaning the vulnerable dial of a vintage HAC clock, it's important to retain the original patina for authentic interior-design purposes, as elegant vintage clocks from the Hamburg American Clock Company contribute significantly to the vintage lifestyle and home décor in the home-and-garden context. To extend the lifespan of these valuable antiques, follow our recommended cleaning methods that preserve the clock's historic character while enhancing its aesthetic appeal.
