50-1724 cabinet restoration - Printable Version

+- The PHILCO Phorum (https://philcoradio.com/phorum)
+-- Forum: Philco Radio Discussions (https://philcoradio.com/phorum/forumdisplay.php?fid=5)
+--- Forum: Philco Cabinet Restoration (https://philcoradio.com/phorum/forumdisplay.php?fid=9)
+--- Thread: 50-1724 cabinet restoration (/showthread.php?tid=22557)

---

50-1724 cabinet restoration - DuMont - 06-07-2021

Restoring a Philco 50-1724.  The top has a gold scrollwork pattern that runs all around the edges.  It's faded, and I can't tell what the original color of the top was.  I've seen pictures that show it as a forest green, but I've also seen where it's described as a thin leather overlay.   Anyone have any ideas?   Here's a picture of one in good shape, but the three front knobs tell me this is not a 1724 - but the top looks to be the same.

---

RE: 50-1724 cabinet restoration - DuMont - 06-14-2021

Well, I guess I'm the only one who's encountered this issue with a cabinet. I'll keep searching and post anything I find.

---

RE: 50-1724 cabinet restoration - klondike98 - 06-14-2021

yep, I don't recall seeing a post on that issue.

---

RE: 50-1724 cabinet restoration - Phlogiston - 06-14-2021

That kind of a "finish" was not uncommon from the 1920s on. Most, but not all, were faux leather. Some had graphics added some did not. In general, if you have such a radio and the "leather" is in OK shape I would not mess with it.

Somebody that does that graphics style like Buford Chister (speaker cones) could probably do a good job on the correct material (and color).

Wurlitzer C-3 from 1924 pictured:


   

Russ

P.S. Maybe a little Armor-All. It might work, or make a mess, try it in a small area, hidden if possible.

---

RE: 50-1724 cabinet restoration - DuMont - 06-15-2021

Thanks, Phlogiston - 
That's very interesting how this finish was used way before - thanks for the picture.  I would have never thought of Armor All.   I will try it in a small corner and see.   Another thought that occurs to me is the possibility of getting a stencil cut and reapplying the gold filagree if the original doesn't survive a gentle cleaning.

---