Revamped HAC/HAU Shelf Clock Appeals, Yet Requires Dial Adjustments
In a recent acquisition, a clock enthusiast has added a Hamburg American Clock Company (HAC) piece to their collection. The clock, purchased at an estate auction in February 2021, was in need of some TLC, particularly its grimy, tarnished dial. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to clean it, preserving its original character and charm.
**Preparation**
Before starting the cleaning process, gather your materials: a soft-bristled toothbrush, cotton swabs, distilled water, mild dish soap, white vinegar, and a microfiber cloth. It's also essential to document the clock's dial condition by taking photos from multiple angles before cleaning.
**Cleaning Process**
1. **Remove Loose Debris**: Gently brush away any loose dust or debris from the dial using a soft-bristled toothbrush.
2. **Make a Cleaning Solution**: Mix 1 tablespoon of mild dish soap with 1 cup (240 ml) of distilled water. Stir well to create a mild soap solution.
3. **Clean the Dial**: Dip a cotton swab into the cleaning solution and gently wipe down the dial. Avoid applying too much pressure or rubbing too hard, as this can damage the finish.
4. **Rinse with Damp Cloth**: Use a microfiber cloth dampened with distilled water to wipe away any soap residue. Do not soak the dial.
5. **Dry the Dial**: Use a dry section of the microfiber cloth to gently pat the dial dry.
6. **Tarnish Removal (Optional)**: If there are tarnished areas, mix equal parts water and white vinegar in a separate bowl. Dip a cotton swab into this solution and gently apply it to the tarnished areas. Let it sit for a few minutes before wiping clean with a damp cloth.
7. **Final Drying**: Use another dry microfiber cloth to wipe away any remaining moisture and prevent water spots.
**Additional Tips**
- **Avoid Harsh Chemicals**: Never use harsh chemicals, abrasive cleaners, or strong polishes, as they can damage the dial's finish. - **Test a Small Area First**: Before applying any cleaning solution to the entire dial, test it on a small, inconspicuous area to ensure it won't cause discoloration. - **Consider Professional Help**: If the dial is severely damaged or if you're unsure about any part of the process, consider consulting a professional horologist or conservator.
The author decided to clean the dial up as much as possible, as stripping the remaining paint from the dial would not have made a significant difference. Drastic measures were needed to clean the dial, as the cream-colored paint had largely worn away, and the numbers were rubbed off. To fill in the numbers, the author used water-based acrylic black paint, a fine-tipped artist's brush, and a fine-tipped .6mm permanent marker. The author is pleased with the result but will not strip the remaining paint from the dial.
HAC, known for its "crossed arrows" symbol found on the movement plate and the coil gong, was incorporated in 1876 and was later acquired by Junghans in 1926. The author's HAC clock is likely a product from this era, considering its aged appearance. The author is now considering two options for dealing with the dirty dial: replacing it with a dial from a donor clock or cleaning it up as much as possible.
The author's next step is to refresh the case of the HAC clock. The author is pleased with the result of cleaning the dial but is mindful that the clock is dirty and likely has never been cleaned. The author has a collection of German clocks, but this is the first HAC clock they own. The author did not mention any new acquisitions or purchases related to clocks.
In light of the author's interest in vintage clocks, they might also consider cleaning a smart-home device or one of their gadgets using a non-abrasive method similar to the one used on the Hamburg American Clock Company (HAC) piece. The author could employ this knowledge of technology to enhance their home automation system, blending the charm of vintage clocks with modern smart-home devices.
Furthermore, while the author has focused on preserving the original character of the HAC clock, they might later consider using technology to create digital replicas of their collection, allowing them to share the beauty of their vintage clocks with a larger audience or immortalize them virtually for future generations.
