Restoration videos on YouTube

[Aerodyne]

I've uploaded a couple of videos today, the first one being

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d6pclX8EAEo&feature=youtu.be

which shows the restoration of an Aerodyne Swan, the set being the subject of an article of mine that was published in Radio Bygones some time ago. I hope it may be of some passing interest.

A second video, much shorter, is:

http://youtu.be/BLl4eLXHrRg

and shows very briefly the restoration of a Marconiphone record player.

-Tony

[Retired]

Hi,

Many thanks for adding these two videos Tony; I'm very impressed as always by your excellent workmanship. The Swan in particular has come up well considering you haven't resorted to re-veneering.

I've never used "toner" so could you please expand on its use and any problems to watch out for. I've always stained but toner looks interesting and possibly easier to use? The tinted filler is a nice touch and saved you a lot of work; a good tip to know.

Two lovely restorations that would enhance anyone's collection. Very well done.

Kind regards, Col.

[Steve_P]

Nice videos, Tony. I can't do stuff to that standard now, but it's good to know that others still can.

Cheers,

Steve P.

[Robert Darwent]

Thanks very much for uploading those two videos Tony, I very much enjoyed watching them. Add to your long list of abilities that of first rate 'movie-maker' too!

Its been said before, but you really are a master of many talents and never fail to amaze and impress with your attention to detail and overall excellent standard of work.

I particularly liked your reproduction makers labels for the back cover, they really look completely original.

Any chance of you going into detail regarding the methods you use to make the reproduction contol knobs, perhaps in a dedicated thread on the subject please?

Its something I need to attempt myself at some point and as there are many different methods its difficult to know the best way to make a start. It would be very helpful to learn your way of doing it Tony.

Best wishes and regards

[Aerodyne]

I'll give some thought to showing how control knobs may be copied with the simplest of methods.
Meanwhile, as far as toner goes - I prefer it to stain as, correctly used, it stays on the surface rather than sinking into the wood grain and therefore it is reversible. First thing is to apply two or three coats of clear lacquer, rubbing down as usual, then the toner, lightly applied and gradually building to the density required (too much and the grain figure is lost, too little and a speckled appearance becomes obvious). VERY gently rub down, avoiding edges and corners or you risk cutting through the toner. Finish with several coats of clear.
Toner can be obtained from
http://www.restoration-materials.co.uk/w...fo.php?p=2&cat=31287
Telephone orders accepted. No personal connection, only as a customer.
-Tony

[Aerodyne]

What very nice comments, deserved or not! Thanks so much to Robert, Col and Steve, three people I have the highest regard for.
Tony

[Yorkie]

Two splendid videos Tony - an inspiration to us all!

Thanks for sharing the restorations with us. I'd echo Colin's views on the use of toner - I've heard it mentioned many times, but have no experience in applying it. I've seen the effects on radios such as the 'Ovaltiney' where toner was applied at the factory to simulate a band of darker veneer. Many have fallen into the hands of inept 'restorers' who have then stripped the cabinet back to the bare veneer, whereupon the 'restorer' realises that the 'stripe' or band around the cabinet isn't a separate darker veneer, but just a band of toner. Having then stripped it off with paintstripper, they've no idea how to re-apply toner to recreate the same effect, so settle for a couple of coats of Danish oil, totally changing the cabinet's appearance. Hopefully, as some time later in it's life, such a vandalised set will come into the hands of an expert restorer and be given the treatment that it deserves.

[Joe]

The spirit-based stain I use will stick on top of shellac so I normally apply at least one coat of clear stuff first. This is that I did with the Pye MM as I knew I was doing it the 'wrong' colour so at least in the future somebody could correct it.

I'll be watching the videos later.

- Joe

[Mark R]

I have been itching to watch these all day, but am unable to get utube at work!
Your attention to detail and striving for perfection are a credit.
Mr Darwent, Mr Tempest, Colin Wood and you most certainly inspire me, I have no doubt others.

Now all I need is to find a cunning plan to pickle all your brains, along with Steve P and get all that knowledge out!

Have you all perchance donated organs?.............

Brilliant Tony just brilliant, please explain the knob remanufacture process.

Cheers Mark (aka Dr Frankenburger)

[Retired]

Hi,

Many thanks for the toner information Tony and the link to Restoration Materials. I already buy most of my finishing materials from Restoration Materials in Bury and they are excellent people to deal with; the only downside is that I tend to come away with empty pockets after each visit as there is so much to choose from.

From your description Tony of toner; it would appear to be a better choice for a novice to practice with because it can be removed unlike stain which requires confident handling and penetrates making it permanent unless bleaching is resorted to.

Thanks Mark; I don't have an organ to donate but I have three lathes; will these do? I was pickled and ended up in a glass jar ages ago when I first joined the forum as were other members at that time so you've already got a good start.

I'm truly amazed by the weather; the last few days of February were quite pleasant and today the 1st of March has been like a nice summer day. I hope it continues but the winter tyres remain on the car.

Kind regards, Col.