[radiotechman]

A friend is refinishing a cabinet for the 48-482 Philco radio. We purchased the decals from Radio Daze. How can the decals be protected with a finish to protect from wear from constant rubbing of the fingers around the controls? What type of protectant should be used over the decals?

[exray]

Typically the decal is applied between coats while refinishing when doing restorations. If it's "too late now" then a quick spritz of lacquer should take care of it.

[Marsupial]

I have similar decals from radio daze, and have to plan to refinish my 47-1230.

is there somewhere I can read the "correct procedure" for that?

[exray]

I usually apply mine after the first clear coat. Just soak in water for about 30 seconds and slide it off the paper directly onto the surface. A couple drops of water will help in sliding it into the exact position. Then just tamp it dry and carefully smooth it out with a paper towel or soft cloth. If it gets wrinkled or a corner gets bent under just use a couple drops of water to rework it.

I let them dry for a good long time, often overnight, before spraying the next lacquer coat. It needs to be bone dry so that any trapped moisture doesn't show up as a blush spot in the lacquer.

[dcastor]

Does anyone know if these decals are similar to the original materials used? In other words, did Philco use decals like these or did they use actual brass lettering?

Dave

[exray]

They originally used decals.

-Bill

[Ron Ramirez]

And they did not look like the decals Radio Daze is selling.

[Marsupial]

Like Ron said.

I compared the one (still visible) on my 47-1230 with the decals. They are close, but not the same. The fond is too tall, the outline not the same width, the whole thing is just not identical.
Although, its better than nothing.


Ron, is there a better source out there???

[Ron Ramirez]

For the PHILCO name: Antique Electronic Supply.

The font used for the other decals that go around the knobs are not correct on the AES decals either, but are better than nothing.

[Marsupial]

I wouldn't be able to confirm that... those decals are long gone on my well-used 47-1230... that unit had a good life!