Restoring a Seth Thomas clock face - Sequel
In the world of clock restoration, the art of inpainting plays a crucial role in preserving the beauty and history of these timepieces. This article marks the first part of a two-part series, focusing on the restoration of a Seth Thomas column and cornice clock dial from 1865.
The dial, unfortunately, was in a poor condition. Faded numerals, large sections without paint, and missing or faded time track detail were just some of the challenges faced during the restoration process. But fear not, for the magic of inpainting was about to work its wonders.
The restoration began with a careful cleaning and stabilizing of the dial surface. Dirt, old varnish, and flaking paint were removed, ensuring the original material was preserved. This meticulous process laid the foundation for the subsequent steps.
Next, the paint colours were painstakingly matched. Using a mix of paints, the original tones and hues were replicated, creating a palette that would bring the dial back to life.
With the colours ready, it was time to delve into the intricate world of clock dial decoration. The decorative corner design would be restored in Part II, but for now, the focus was on inpainting the lost areas. This process involved hand-painting each element of the design freehand, using a Level 2 - 0 round artist brush and sweeping strokes.
Water-based all-surface acrylic paint was chosen for its forgiving nature, making it ideal for this delicate work. A clear hard plastic was used to outline the pattern of the floral designs, providing a guide while still allowing for the artistic freedom required to recreate the original design.
The fourth step, reproducing the floral designs, was the fun part of the project. With each petal and leaf carefully painted, the dial began to regain its former glory. The faded corners, barely visible before, now stood out, enhancing the overall appearance of the clock and increasing its value.
It's important to note that inpainting doesn't require precision that matches a microscope's view. Subtle differences are part of the charm of antique clocks. The goal is to restore the dial's appearance without compromising its authenticity.
As we move into Part II of this series, we'll delve deeper into the restoration of the decorative corner design. Stay tuned for more insights into the world of clock restoration, and don't forget to subscribe to get the latest posts sent straight to your email.
In these challenging times, our thoughts go out to those affected by Covid-19. We hope that this series provides a moment of escape and inspiration, reminding us of the beauty and history that can be found in even the smallest of details.
For those interested in another restoration project, be sure to check out our article on inpainting a Pequegnat clock dial. Until next time!
