Refurbishing work on a 181-year-old weight-driven banjo clock.
**Restoration of a John Sawin Banjo Clock from the 1840s**
In this article, we delve into the restoration process of a rare John Sawin banjo clock from the 1840s. This weight-driven federal style cased clock, lacking identifying markings, showcases the craftsmanship of the renowned American clockmaker, John Sawin.
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## **Restoration Details**
### **Case Restoration**
- **Veneer Work:** The left and bottom corners on the pendulum received veneer work to restore their original appearance. - **Stain Application:** A dark stain was applied to give the plaster an aged look, enhancing the clock's historical character. - **Glue Usage:** Yellow carpenter's glue was used for several case repairs to ensure maximum adhesion. - **Doweling:** A 3/8 inch doweling was used to replace the finial post and was given a mahogany stain for a consistent finish. - **Finial Repair:** The finial, originally from the pendulum box, requires a new post due to a broken peg. - **Plaster of Paris:** Plaster of Paris was used for securing the glass in place, drying hard in 30 minutes and being stainable/paintable for seamless integration. - **Veneer Replacement:** Shavings from old veneer were glued into screw holes for the mounting ears and the case hook, while rosewood veneer was used to disguise missing veneer. - **Soldering Iron:** A 30W soldering iron was used to remove the old putty.
### **Glass Replacement**
A perfect fit 6 13/16 inch flat glass was ordered for replacement, restoring the clock's original appearance.
### **Movement and Dial**
Regrettably, the movement and dial of the clock are not original to the piece, with no identifying markings found. The dial class of the clock is broken and will need to be replaced or repaired by a qualified horologist.
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## **Conclusion**
The restoration of this John Sawin banjo clock from the 1840s highlights the intricate work involved in preserving these valuable antiques. With careful attention to detail and the use of historically accurate materials and techniques, this clock will continue to grace future generations with its elegance and craftsmanship.
If you have any questions or need advice on a specific John Sawin clock, feel free to share details!
In the follow-up to the restoration of a John Sawin banjo clock, one may consider the repair of a vintage clock that has incorporated smart-home devices for integration into modern gadgets and technology, ensuring its longevity while maintaining the charm of its historical character. alternatively, one could ponder on the restoration of a different John Sawin piece, this time a grandfather clock, which houses a collection of various gadgets and technology, while still showcasing the original craftsmanship of the clockmaker.
