Restoring afetching antique mantel clock - the first chapter featuring Arthur Pequegnat Bedford

Restoring afetching antique mantel clock - the first chapter featuring Arthur Pequegnat Bedford

Restoring a Later Edition Arthur Pequegnat Bedford Mantel Clock: A Step-by-Step Guide

The Arthur Pequegnat Bedford mantel clock, a classic Canadian timepiece, is a popular find among collectors. This article focuses on restoring a later edition of the Bedford model, offering a step-by-step guide for enthusiasts and collectors.

Identifying Later Edition Arthur Pequegnat Bedford Mantel Clocks

Later editions of the Bedford mantel clock may show subtle design updates, variations in materials and finishes, and sometimes incorporate movements from third-party manufacturers. Look for trademarks on the dial or inside the case, such as the "AP" logo, and changes in label style for clues about the clock's age.

Restoration Process for an Arthur Pequegnat Bedford Mantel Clock

Restoring a Bedford mantel clock involves careful attention to the mechanics, case, and overall appearance while preserving originality as much as possible:

1. Assessment:
2. Carefully examine the clock, noting any damages, wear, missing parts, or mechanical failures.
3. Take photographs to document the original condition.
4. Cleaning the Case:
5. Remove dust, grime, and old polish with mild wood cleaner or mineral spirits.
6. Repair or reglue any loose joints or veneer chips using wood glue and clamps.
7. If the finish is damaged, consider light sanding and refinishing with suitable wood stain and varnish matching the original appearance.
8. Dial and Hands:
9. Clean the dial gently using a soft cloth; avoid harsh chemicals to preserve original paint.
10. If the dial is paper or painted, take extra care not to remove markings.
11. Gently straighten bent hands if necessary.
12. Movement Servicing:
13. Remove the mechanical movement carefully.
14. Disassemble the movement to clean all parts in clock cleaning solution.
15. Inspect gears, bushings, pivots, springs, and replace any worn or broken parts.
16. Lubricate pivot points with proper clock oil during reassembly.
17. Adjust the escapement and test the mechanism for smooth operation.
18. If the clock has a chime mechanism, ensure proper timing and functioning.
19. Glass and Bezel:
20. Clean the glass with gentle glass cleaner.
21. If broken or missing, replace with period-appropriate glass.
22. Polish or clean the brass bezel and reattach securely.
23. Reassembly and Testing:
24. Carefully place the movement back into the case.
25. Hang the pendulum and test the clock’s timing and chime function.
26. Adjust the pendulum length or escapement as necessary to keep accurate time.
27. Let the clock run for several days to ensure stability.
28. Final Touches:
29. Polish the wood case lightly.
30. Apply wax polish for a nice luster if appropriate.
31. Replace missing or broken labels if you want, but it’s often best to preserve any original paper or metal labels intact.

Tips for Restoration

• Use period-appropriate materials and tools.
• Document every step of restoration for future reference or resale value.
• If you’re uncertain about servicing the movement, consult a professional clockmaker experienced with antique Canadian clocks.
• Avoid over-refinishing or overly modern fixes that may reduce the clock’s value.

This article is a continuation of a two-part series about the repair of an Arthur Pequegnat Bedford clock. In the first part, the challenges of repairing the clock case and the minor repairs to the movement were described. The repaired clock will be added to the repairer's collection of Arthur Pequegnat clocks. The clock, which was accidentally damaged, has undergone final finishing and is now closer to being restored to working condition. The clock features a silvered 6-inch dial with Arabic numerals, spade hands, a thick brass bezel, concave base moulding, and a coiled gong. The movement of the clock is not marked, but it has a passing 1/2 hour strike on a coiled gong. Yellow carpenters glue was used for case repairs.

• For fashion-and-beauty enthusiasts, the refinished Bedford mantel clock can serve as a vintage accessory in a rustic farmhouse bedroom.
• As a collector pieces together their home-and-garden-dedicated vintage clocks, the Arthur Pequegnat Bedford later edition is a must-have for its American-Canadian heritage.
• On a travel adventure, clock enthusiasts might seek out antique dealers in Quebec City to spot more examples of the cherished Bedford mantel clock, broadening their appreciation for the intricate craftsmanship of these timepieces.

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