08-22-2013, 03:03 PM
Hi Everyone,
Yesterday, my wife and I were at the local antique place when we discovered a nice looking old radio. Within minutes, the vendor had kicked the price down to $70 and I said "SOLD!" I spent the evening surfing the web and found this great site.
I have attached a few images of the console. The chassis appears to be in decent shape, but has received some recent work as it has a new power cord on it. I have not removed it from the console for further inspection.
My goal is to return it to its original glory. I would like for the console to look like new and for the radio to play nicely. I have found a few references on restoration including "Radio Cabinet Restoration" by Joe Koester and "Basic Wood Radio Cabinet Refinishing" by Eric Stenberg and a few other references. I also see that replacement tuning buttons and lettering are also available.
The console looks to be in decent shape. The flash has brought out some of the original color and shine, though to my eyes the console looks rather dull and lifeless with normal room lighting. There are tons of little marks and scrapes on the sides and bottom. There doesn't appear to be any major gouges. The wood and veneer all appear to be sound and secure.
So, where do I start? I'm no stranger to electronics or wood working. Does this console need a full strip and refinish? Or is there a way to "patch" the splotches?
Any insights would be appreciated!
Eric
Yesterday, my wife and I were at the local antique place when we discovered a nice looking old radio. Within minutes, the vendor had kicked the price down to $70 and I said "SOLD!" I spent the evening surfing the web and found this great site.
I have attached a few images of the console. The chassis appears to be in decent shape, but has received some recent work as it has a new power cord on it. I have not removed it from the console for further inspection.
My goal is to return it to its original glory. I would like for the console to look like new and for the radio to play nicely. I have found a few references on restoration including "Radio Cabinet Restoration" by Joe Koester and "Basic Wood Radio Cabinet Refinishing" by Eric Stenberg and a few other references. I also see that replacement tuning buttons and lettering are also available.
The console looks to be in decent shape. The flash has brought out some of the original color and shine, though to my eyes the console looks rather dull and lifeless with normal room lighting. There are tons of little marks and scrapes on the sides and bottom. There doesn't appear to be any major gouges. The wood and veneer all appear to be sound and secure.
So, where do I start? I'm no stranger to electronics or wood working. Does this console need a full strip and refinish? Or is there a way to "patch" the splotches?
Any insights would be appreciated!
Eric
