Extremely Rare German Petite Sonnerie Lancet Clock Exported New to the United States
Rare Winterhalder & Hofmeier Petite Sonnerie lancet mantel clock featuring quarter-hour striking and separate hour count, restored through full movement overhaul, dial conservation, and full case restoration.
- RESTORATION STORY -
This W&H clock required extensive mechanical and cosmetic restoration. The extremely worn dial and faded, smoke-contaminated mahogany case had passed well beyond what could reasonably be considered original patina from 125 years of service. A rare German Lancet clock from "The Gilded Age," it was restored to as-new condition using the materials and finishing techniques originally employed during its manufacture, including hide glue, garnet shellac, dial polishing, waxing, and silvering. Detailed scope of work follows the gallery.
Removed, dismantled, cleaned and inspected movement, mainsprings & barrels. The clock showed evidence of prior repair, while the case and dial were in extremely poor condition due to improper polishing and long-term storage.
The movement had been previously bushed, except for the fly wheel pivot holes.
All other pivots and pivot holes were in excellent condition.
The mainsprings were in excellent condition.
The case had warped and was smoke-damaged on the exterior.
The dial had been polished to the brass and was beyond tasteful patina.
Installed 2 pivot bushings
Polished all pivots
Polished movement plates, gong, pendulum and miscellaneous brass parts; applied lacquer to prevent tarnish
Reassembled & oiled movement
Greased pallet levers
Restored dial to as-new condition: polished to brass base, turned in lathe with 400 emery cloth, applied black engraver’s wax and re-silvered to original factory spec.
Renovated case and doors, preserving original wood and molding while removing heavily tobacco-stained shellac, re-staining in mahogany, and re-applying multiple coats of period-correct garnet shellac
Restored back door, including repainting strike sound duct in gold and replacing gold silk covering
Polished and lacquered brass face bezel and door hinges
Bench tested movement for two weeks and regulated time
