Restoring brass plate finish on an Elliott

[Rixy]

I am cleaning and servicing an Elliott mantel clock a friend just bought. It looks like some overenthusiastic person has dipped the movement in a very caustic cleaning solution in the past. The brass is all mottled and streaky where the original protection has begun to come off. What do people suggest as a way forward? Should I remove all the remaining coating and recoat with microcrystalline wax or lacquer? Or should I clean it as gently as possible so as not to cause further damage?

The spring barrels are in a similar state.

The movement needs a good clean: it has the whiff of stale grease and 3-in-1 oil

On a different note, but about the same clock, the brass domed cover that should sit on top of the platform escapement is missing. Does anyone know where I could get one or should I try to make one? (my metalwork skills are a bit limited!)

[watchweasol]

Hi ,  in my opinion with the client / friends permission clean it off and re wax, this is not a decision ti take lightly.  I would show the clock as is to your friend and explain the situation as regards the cleaning the pros and cons and let your friend make an informed desicion on how to proceed 

[Rixy]

Thanks WW. He wants it restored and looking good so I would imagine he'll agree but won't take it for granted. I'll ask him first.

[watchweasol]

Hi.  Sound policy, as long as he knows the problems you face in doing it. It takes quite a bit of hand work to clean and re wax.

[RichardHarris123]

I know very little about clocks but I  asked oldhippy about using petrol to clean a  clock's movements. He said it was OK, the old lacquer came off easily.  I'm not recommended it for a final clean but to remove the lacquer, worked well. 

[oldhippy]

In this case I would leave it to soak in Horolene clock cleaner and clean it with very fine wire wool. I don't know what you mean by wax. The movement would have been lacquered. If you are going to do that then this is what I used its the clear horolacq. It dries very quick. It is a time consuming task as you have to make sure no hairs or dust are on the parts. The other you could do is french chalk it this will stop the brash from getting tarnished. 

Link to horolacq

https://www.cousinsuk.com/product/metal-lacquers