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A few weeks ago I picked this VV S-405 up for $10 at auction. The interior of the machine is flawless and the 4 spring motor runs quiet. However, it suffered water damage to the outside. The veneer on the lids was lifted and is warped so now I'm in the process of veneer replacement. The front and sides have streaking and fading so a re-staining is needed. The re-staining is no problem however what would you recommend for the finish? I has used shellac before but it is difficult to work with using a brush and getting a smooth finish. Danish oil? Tung oil? Or is just diluting shellac a better way to get good flow?

Steve

As I got it


Inside after initial wipe down


Lid with veneer removed and patched


New veneer applied prior to sanding

Nice work and nice machine! Congratulations

Steve

This machine is late enough that Lacquer is correct. I start with a diluted shellac to seal the wood then spray on Laquer (Some swear by Deft brand Lacquer but 10 to 20 % dilution with Lacquor thinner of any commercial Lacquor is perfect for spaying on) If you do not have access to a sprayer cans of spray are fine)

If you are looking for a nice finish 6 thin layers of Lacquor, with a little sanding with 320 paper, will look great. If you are thinking of a thicker "French Polished look", which is also fun to do, research on You Tube. This will take many many layers and sanding with different grades of paper and even rubbing with rotten-stone and pumice.

Best of Luck

Bruce

Bruce wrote:Steve

This machine is late enough that Lacquer is correct. I start with a diluted shellac to seal the wood then spray on Laquer (Some swear by Deft brand Lacquer but 10 to 20 % dilution with Lacquor thinner of any commercial Lacquor is perfect for spaying on) If you do not have access to a sprayer cans of spray are fine)

If you are looking for a nice finish 6 thin layers of Lacquor, with a little sanding with 320 paper, will look great. If you are thinking of a thicker "French Polished look", which is also fun to do, research on You Tube. This will take many many layers and sanding with different grades of paper and even rubbing with rotten-stone and pumice.

Best of Luck

Bruce

Thank you Bruce

Glad you saved it! These are some pretty Victrolas and the lacquer finishes are fun to do.