The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

Hello,
A month ago I picked up an Edison Standard Model D with morning glory horn. The bed plate is just like new but the finish on the lid and case had dried out and had a lot of chipping and flaking. I decided to finally have a try at restoring the finish or at least improving it the best I could. I used Zinsser's shellac. First I put on two coats of amber shellac follow by twelve or so coats( I actually lost count)of clear. I sanded between every two or three coats. The first several coats went on easy and dried fast. As the coats built up it took longer for everything to dry. The surface coat would feel dry to the touch but if I held the piece firm to examine it I would leave a thumb print in the finish. I let the final coat sit for a week before I attempted to handle it. lastly I went over the whole case will 0000 steel wool to take the gloss off and leave a satin finish. Unfortunately I only took one "before" picture. The last three pictures are the results.
Pete

I like the color it looks very authentic... and such a tidy workbench! Jerry

Looking good. I still have a Edison Standard D just like yours in mint shape, but I have to locate an original horn for it and stand.

Is the stand and/or the horn originals???

Tony K.
Melbourne, FL

Hi Tony,
The horn is original and in real nice condition with no dents or paint loss. I think the crane is original too although it is hard to tell.
Pete

Very nice result.

Nice job, Pete! This is a perfect example of why we should be reaching for a can of shellac instead of a can of stripper. Over the years, too many salvageable original finishes have been lost when all they really needed was "freshening-up" with shellac. It's nice to see that your Standard D is good to go for another 100 years.

Best Regards,
Martin

A nice result. Looks period and not overdone.

Clay

Very nicely done Pete. You should be very proud of the results.