Repair work on an 8-day Seth Thomas square clock, including the column and cornice.
In the world of antique clock restoration, few tasks are as delicate and intricate as repairing the veneer on a Seth Thomas clock, particularly when it comes to addressing Rosewood veneer with traditional hide glue. Here's a step-by-step guide to veneer restoration based on best practices for antique clock veneer restoration.
**Assessment and Preparation**
The first step in the restoration process is a thorough examination of the damage. Look for signs of lifting, cracks, missing sections, or previous repairs. Note the extent of the damage and whether original Rosewood veneer is present or if replacements are needed.
Clean the area of dust, dirt, and old adhesive residues using a soft brush or mild solvent. Avoid harsh chemicals that could damage the finish. If possible, dismantle the clock to protect its movement and decorative elements during repair.
**Veneer Stabilization and Gluing**
Prepare the wood substrate by lightly sanding or scraping it to create a clean, rough surface for better glue adhesion. If old hide glue is present and still holding, consider reactivating it with heat and moisture rather than scraping it off.
Heat hide glue in a glue pot or small container until liquefied. Apply a thin, even layer to both the substrate and the underside of the veneer using a small brush or spatula. Carefully align the veneer to its original position and use clamps, a caul, or painter’s tape to press it firmly in place.
**Finishing and Blending**
Allow the hide glue to dry and cure according to manufacturer instructions, usually 4–12 hours. Hide glue is forgiving and reversible, which is ideal for antique work.
Repair cracks and gaps using a mixture of sawdust and hide glue. If Rosewood veneer is missing, source matching replacement veneer. Cut new pieces to fit, using hide glue for attachment. Where gaps or small cracks remain, use a mixture of sawdust and hide glue to fill them.
Stain and finish the new or repaired area to match the surrounding veneer. Finish with a thin coat of shellac or oil, blending it into the original finish for a seamless look.
**Tips for Success**
Maintain a stable environment with consistent temperature and humidity to prevent warping or glue failure. Use quality tools like precision knives, scrapers, and brushes to ensure accuracy and minimize damage. Document your work by photographing each step for restoration records and future reference.
**Why Hide Glue and Rosewood?**
Hide glue is traditional, reversible, and compatible with antique woodwork. It allows future restorers to undo your work if needed. Rosewood veneer was authentic to many Seth Thomas clocks of this period, prized for its rich color and grain.
Following this process will help preserve the historical integrity and value of your 1870s Seth Thomas clock.
In this specific repair project, the most troublesome sections were the top and bottom of the case and the column base. Pearl hide glue, rated at 150g Bloom strength, was chosen for the repair. The cornice on the left side was missing a section and needed to be replaced before veneer work began.
Water can be used to soften veneer for increased flexibility, but commercial softeners like Super-Soft 2 are also available. Rosewood Minwax Gel stain is a close match to the older veneer, but experimenting with a coat of shellac before applying a stain is recommended.
The veneer used at the time was Brazilian Rosewood, an exotic wood. Clamps are essential for veneer repair, but weights can be used as an alternative when clamps do not work. A micrometer is an essential tool for accurate measurements in veneer repair work.
Leaving the clamp on for 24 hours ensures maximum adhesion during veneer repair. It is best to start with a small batch of hide glue, and if there is glue left over, it can be frozen and reused later with no ill effect. Veneer today is thinner than veneer used 100+ years ago, and may require doubling up or layering.
To ready the adhesive, place the container with the gelatinous glue in a bath of water in a pot specially designed for hide glue or a double boiler, heat to approximately 140°F (60°C), and maintain the temperature throughout. Old veneer, while brittle, can be harvested from old clock cases for use in repairs.
The Seth Thomas column and cornice time and strike shelf clock with sleigh front, purchased five years ago, has been running since. Hide glue is the one true adhesive for antique clock case applications, as it was likely used at the time the clock was manufactured.
Cutting veneer can be challenging, as it must follow the grain and narrow strips can break easily. The clock was made in the 1870s and has a Plymouth Lyre movement with a Thomaston Conn. label. Painters tape is used to prevent tearing during veneer cutting.
In the process of restoreing an 1870s Seth Thomas clock, it's essential to use traditional adhesives like hide glue for veneer repair, as it maintains the historical integrity and value of the clock. Additionally, sourcing replacement veneer that closely matches the original Brazilian Rosewood is crucial for a seamless repair, as it contributes to the vintage lifestyle and home-and-garden aesthetic, making the restored clock a timeless addition to any home décor.
