Clockmaker's Decision: Preservation, Conservation, or Restoration - A Challenging Predicament
In the world of antique clock collecting, the question of how far to go in repairing or restoring a clock without losing its original identity is a topic of much debate. The goal, as many experts agree, is to achieve a sympathetic restoration, maintaining the clock's original character while ensuring its continued function.
A lantern clock, a popular choice in English private homes during the 17th century and highly collectible today, can be a subject of such discussions. Most lantern clocks have been altered, even those considered "genuine," due to the passage of time and the hands of various clockmakers. Opinions on trivial examples like these can vary among experts, but the general consensus is that a clock's originality should be preserved as much as possible.
The Bluenose II, a symbol of Nova Scotia, provides an interesting comparison. Rebuilt in 2018 with new materials while some items were reused, the ship's restoration raises questions about the acceptable extent of intervention. This philosophical argument, known as the Ship of Theseus, suggests that if every component of an object is replaced, the resulting object is no longer the same as the original.
When it comes to antique clocks, the key considerations are preserving original finishes and parts, minimising intervention, using appropriate replacement parts, retaining patina and signs of age, and following standard repair practices. A wholesale replacement of parts, especially key components like the movement or dial, should be avoided unless they are irreparable. Repairs should be performed to maintain function and structural integrity without altering the clock’s original design or character.
If a repair was done shortly after a clock was made and was a proper repair, it should be left untouched if it is clearly documented and does not significantly alter the clock's function or appearance. A non-working clock should be made functional, but this should be done in a way that respects the clock's original design and materials.
The customer's preferences should also be respected when working on their clock. Some collectors frown upon any intervention on antique clocks while others find it necessary and desired. D. and J. Benson, specialists in early English clocks, believe that if a clock was converted to a different escapement many years ago, this should be retained, being part of the history of the clock.
In essence, an antique clock loses its identity as an original object when restoration becomes a replacement or alteration of its defining features rather than a preservation or careful repair. The goal is to retain as much of the original material and appearance as possible while ensuring the clock’s continued function. A balanced approach, where repair and restoration are carried out sympathetically, is key to preserving the value and history of antique clocks.
[1] Preservation vs. Restoration: Understanding the Differences and Choices for Antique Clocks. (2021). www.antiqueclocks.com
[3] The Art of Antique Clock Restoration. (2019). www.clockrepair.com
- In the realm of antique clock collecting, debates often arise over the extent of restoration, with the goal being a sympathetic approach that preserves a clock's original character while ensuring its functionality.
- When it comes to deciding between preservation and restoration, experts suggest considering factors like maintaining original finishes and parts, minimizing intervention, using appropriate replacement parts, and retaining patina and signs of age.
- Some antique clocks, like lantern clocks popular during the 17th century, have been altered over time and become subjects of debate due to the passage of time and varying clockmakers' influence.
- Unlike some objects, like the Bluenose II, where every component being replaced raises questions of whether the resulting object is still the original, the focus for antique clocks is more on preserving and carefully repairing instead of replacement.
- When it comes to repairs, records of proper, immediately post-production repairs should be left untouched if they do not significantly alter a clock's function or appearance.
- Collectors' preferences play a role in antique clock restoration, with some preferring no intervention, while others believe necessary interventions are essential for preserving a clock's history and function. Specialists like D. and J. Benson advocate for retaining features that reflect a clock's history, even if they differ from the original design.
