Employing a paint roller to refresh a timepiece's face
Repainting a Waterbury Wren Shelf Clock Dial: A Step-by-Step Guide
The dial of a Waterbury Wren shelf clock, dating back to C.1895, has undergone a transformation through careful repainting, resulting in a much more presentable and brighter appearance. Here's how the process was carried out:
- Preparation
- The dial was first cleaned thoroughly to remove any dirt, dust, or loose paint. A mild soap and water solution or a suitable cleaner for delicate surfaces was used, avoiding harsh abrasives that could damage the embossing.
- In order to have better control during painting and to avoid getting paint on other parts, the dial was removed from the clock.
- Protecting the Embossed Details
- To preserve the raised numerals and designs on the embossed dial, fine stencils, masking tape, or careful application techniques were employed to avoid excessive buildup of paint.
- After allowing paint to settle in the recesses, the raised parts were lightly rolled or brushed over.
- Using the Paint Roller
- A small, dense foam roller was chosen for its control over the size and details of the clock dial.
- Acrylic satin paint was applied in thin, even coats to avoid pooling in embossed areas. Multiple light coats were preferred over one heavy coat to maintain the definition of the embossing.
- The roller was used gently, and care was taken to preserve the embossed edges.
- Choosing the Acrylic Satin Paint
- High-quality acrylic satin paint was used, offering good adhesion and flexibility appropriate for metal or wood surfaces, depending on the dial material. Acrylic satin finish provides a durable and slightly glossy surface suitable for clock dials.
- Drying and Curing
- Each coat was allowed to dry completely before applying the next, preventing lifting or smudging on the detailed embossed surface.
- After final application, the paint was allowed to cure fully as per manufacturer’s instructions to ensure durability.
- Additional Tips
- If the dial has applied figures or markings that could be removed, consider detaching these before painting, then reattaching after refinishing for a clean result.
- Avoid using spray paint or thick brush strokes that could obscure the fine embossing.
Since repainting embossed clock dials requires a delicate approach to preserve the raised details and their legibility, slow, careful application with thin layers of paint using a small foam roller is recommended. Protective masking and multiple thin coats of quality acrylic satin paint will help achieve a smooth, durable finish while maintaining the embossed design.
The next step for the Waterbury Wren shelf clock is to find a 5 1/2 inch bezel and glass to complement the dial. The repainting process has significantly improved the appearance of the clock, making it a more attractive addition to any home.
Vintage clocks, such as the Waterbury Wren shelf clock, can seamlessly blend into various home-and-garden or home-improvement lifestyles, thanks to personalized touches like repainting. A well-executed repainting project can result in a beautiful, glossy appearance that enhances the design of the embossed dial, making it an eye-catching charm for any room.
