G&J

[RogerH]

Chaps, I picked up a nice little mantle time piece at an auction the other day. the movement is in good condition but rather gunged up. parts almost look as if they have rust coloured liquid on them but no evidence of water getting inside. Hopefully a good clean and all will be well but I've not seen this make before - G&J either side of a bell - can anyone give me any information on it? (I assume it's a J and not a U)

[oldhippy]

That is a Gillett and Johnston movement and very high quality it is. Lots of info about them on the net so I wont bother putting links up.  A good clean and oil should do the trick, the brass is very high quality so I wouldn't think re-bushing is required. Use a pocket watch oil on the platform not to thick of one. 

[RogerH]

Thanks OH, I'll look them up. I'm a bit concerned about the finish. it appears to have a lot of lacquer on it. I was gong to give it a dip and clean - I use HP Storey which works quite well but not too sure what affect it will have.

[oldhippy]

You are right it is lacquered. I don't know of HP Storey products. You do not want to strip that lacquer off. I would just clean it in petrol.  

[RogerH]

Does petrol not attack lacquer?  there is already some wear in places where the lacquer has been worn away so in some ways removing it may give an even finish. What are peoples thoughts on lacquering. I know it's often used just to give it a shiny finish but is it best to leave it on no matter what?

[oldhippy]

Depends how much time you want to spend on cleaning. If it is already peeling then I would personally strip it and re-lacquer . I haven't had petrol peel lacquer off.