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Restoring Oxidized Look on Early Graflex Cameras
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AuthorMessage
jpmose
Joined: 29 May 2001
Posts: 164
PostPosted: Wed Nov 03, 2004 6:38 pm

As most of you know, pre 1930 Graflex cameras have oxidized silver plate brass hardware. I have seen examples where attempts have been made to polish the tarnish off. It is usually unsightly as it ends up as a combo of shiney and oxidized. Can this be successfully reversed back to the dull blackish appearance? If someone can provide me with a procedure I would appreciate it. Thanks.
glennfromwy
Joined: 29 Nov 2001
Posts: 903
PostPosted: Wed Nov 03, 2004 9:51 pm

If (that's a capital IF) the silver is still there, a sulfur compound of some sort will definitely tarnish it. What color it will come out is anybody's guess.
jpmose
Joined: 29 May 2001
Posts: 164
PostPosted: Mon Nov 15, 2004 3:32 pm

The product to use called "Liver of Sulphur". My Home Portrait Graflex arrives today from Austria. From the photos I saw, an attempt to polish the oxidized silver has left some of the pieces bright and shiny, while others remain dark and dull. I will report back on the results.

I obtained the camera at a great price and the rest of it is in such good condition...I may resort to having a couple of the pieces replated if all the silver is off. I have been quoted around $45 a piece to replate. I know this is extreme but I really want this camera to be nice.
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