© Copyright
Mervyn Passmore 2008
Marblack Slate Blacking Home

Using a kitchen scourer and a mild solution of warm water and washing up liquid, clean the surface of the clock. An old scourer will be best, as new scourers can be too coarse and may scratch the surface. The sponge side of the scourer is normally too gentle to remove the grime and polish. Keep the scourer wet at all times and under no circumstances immerse the case in water. These clocks are made with panels of stone held together with a white plaster and wires. If the plaster gets damp, the case will probably fall apart or the top or sides may loosen.

Never place the case in a tray while washing it as the water level will build up and loosen the joints of the case. Place it on a rack of some sort, or a ribbed kitchen drainer which will allow surplus water to run away.

Clean the clock case thoroughly, especially any areas of inlaid marble.

Don't attempt to clean any gilded engravings. There may be some recoverable gilding beneath the grime, so leave these lines alone.


Washing with soap and water 

Keep cleaning the clock until you are sure you have removed all grime, old polish etc. from the surface.

Immediatelt wipe all surfaces dry with an old cloth or paper towel and leave the case in a warm airy place to dry out. Dampness can loosen the joints of these clocks, so never leave the case damp for long periods.