[EdHolland]

Interesting discussion Oscar. If you have a preferred finish other than shellac or laquer, could you please share your methods?

I'm in the midst of deciding to do with the cabinet of my '41 RCA console. A previous restorer washed it over with something that is now flaking away, leaving the original finish behind, plus also the newer damage seen before it reached my care.

Some test areas have been rubbed lightly with fine wire wool to explore the possibilites of removing the overcoat, or finding that the original finish needs to go etc. I would like to preserve the original decals if possible. One test area - a nice veneer that wraps from the front mounted dial and over the top was stripped back (except for the decals), and I have experimented with building up a Tung oil finish. This is starting to look nice, and blends the stripped and non stripped areas rather well (as applied). My goal is to make the radio look respectable, but some "patina" is acceptable on an antique object. There is some chipped toning on corner moldings to deal with as well as larger area finish. It also has fake Photofinish cross-banding which is in good shape, and which I will not disturb. Working around this is another area for thought.


/Ed