Thanks to all the people who replied to my recent posting about the
colour of brass used by Symphonion.  In all the Symphonions I have
owned there has been a distinctive golden colour to the brasswork,
particularly on the pressure arm and hinge and the star wheel gantry
housing.  It is a protective finish for sure, and difficult to remove.

Most replies suggested that the finish would have been a clear one to
protect against tarnishing.  If no colour was present at this stage
then it is feasible to suggest that over a hundred years or so the
lacquer or brass has developed a patination resembling a golden yellow
colour.

What is clear to me now is that when it is necessary to have to polish
brass to a high shine and apply a modern lacquer, the results are not
as authentic and are too new looking.

I am in the process if experimenting with a medium gold lacquer
available from a clock supplier.  The results straight from the bottle
are too strong so I will try diluting it with a clear lacquer to try
and achieve the authentic look I want.  I will post my results at the
end of the experiments.  In the meantime, if anyone has any thoughts
on the issue please respond.

Mark Buckland