Cleaning the Case of Your Grandfather Clock

by: Michael O'Brien

Antiques can be fragile. Even the sturdiest piece of antique wood furniture may require special care. Today’s modern stains and wood finishes much more durable than the products used even a generation ago. Functionally speaking, varnish and other wood finishes are considered sacrificial in nature. The term sacrificial means that the finish is there to protect the wood. We can be sure the early woodworkers were not thinking about what a grandfather clock might be worth one hundred years later. Their only concern was to choose a finish that would protect the wood and add beauty to the piece.

Refinishing any piece of old wood furniture is usually done to repair damage and restore the wood to its previous beauty and utility. Refinishing wood antiques, if not done properly, can reduce the value of the piece dramatically. This is absolutely true for antique grandfather clocks. If you are lucky enough to own a truly antique grandfather clock, take great care not to damage the original finish. Preserving the original finish not only helps to maintain the clock’s value but also it’s original beauty.

There is an ongoing debate over how to properly antique wood grandfather clocks. A long time friend of mine has done fine furniture restorations for over thirty years. His advice for properly cleaning my antique wood furniture has been consistent over the years. Heeding his advice against the use of oils and polishes, I use cool water and a clean cloth rag to clean my antique wood furniture. Lightly wiping the surface of the wood with the cloth rung almost dry removes dust and dirt without damaging the finish.

The reasoning behind using nothing but water is simple. Introducing chemicals and oils can potentially break down the old varnish over time. The goal is to maintain the integrity of the original finish for as long as possible. This is just a general rule and there are some restoration professionals who advise using oil-based cleaners depending on the age and condition of the clocks finish. If in doubt about which method is best for your particular clock, always consult a restoration professional.

Many antique floor and grandfather clocks have glass panes as part of the enclosure. For aesthetic reasons if for no other, the glass should be kept clean. A bargain window cleaner may work just fine everywhere else around your home. However, using any type of chemical glass cleaner on your antique grand father clock can be a problem. The harsh chemicals in commercial glass cleaners can too easily come in contact with the wood that surrounds the wood of the case. The best advice is to avoid using chemical glass cleaners at all cost.

A mixture of vinegar and water as a glass cleaner is great for windows but it may not be the best choice for your antique grandfather clock. Since vinegar is mildly acidic, do not use it to clean the glass of your antique floor clock. The acerbic nature of the vinegar may soften and damage the varnish. Warm water and a soft cloth are your best bet. Simply wipe down the glass with the damp cloth and use a dry cloth to dry and polish the glass.

Antique grandfather and grandmother clocks are beautiful, classic and can reflect a sentimental value beyond their monetary worth. Many of these wonderful clocks are handed down from one generation to the next and can be an important part of a family’s history. Properly cleaning and maintaining your clock can add years to the working life of the movement, protecting its value and beauty.

About the Author

Michael O'Brien is Staff Writer for Grandfather Clock Sale.com