Ingraham Dial Help

[markd]

I'm trying to cleanup this Ingraham dial and could use some help. Is this a paper dial on the pan with a top coating? I'm attaching pictures with and without flash. The dirt is coming off the bottom with damp cleaning rag but is not picking up well. Can mineral spirits or another cleaning solvent be used?
Any advise would be appreciated.

Thanks
Mark

[Steven Thornberry]

I suspect it is paper; so, you want to be careful about using anything liquid. I've tried a soft eraser in spots (just as a test and avoiding the numbers and chapter ring as much as possible) to clean off some surface discoloration, but evben then caution is paramount. In fact, I would recommend leaving it as is. It can be clearly read and shows it age well. To me, it is part of the clocks character.

[markd]

Thank you for the reply. I agree that the overall tone adds to the character of the clock, but the oily grime around the winding holes bugs me. :(

I removed some grime blotting with a dry, then damp paper towel. The problem is it oily and easily smears. I'll try a little more but will probably accept the fact that not much can be done.

[Thyme]

Thank you for the reply. I agree that the overall tone adds to the character of the clock, but the oily grime around the winding holes bugs me. :(

I removed some grime blotting with a dry, then damp paper towel. The problem is it oily and easily smears. I'll try a little more but will probably accept the fact that not much can be done.

Steven is absolutely correct - paper dials are virtually impossible to clean and are best left alone, especially when the overall look (patina) is uniform.

As for any grease or grime: if it is on the metal grommets (or any other metalwork such as the bezel), it can be removed with a cleaning fluid, such as carbon tetrachloride on a q-tip or similar fine applicator. If you have oil residue on the paper, (as maybe you suggested in your description?) you can try a tiny amount of cleaning fluid on the paper to see if it helps. But do realize that if it does lighten the spot, you might be left with blotches on the dial of any cleaner spots, made visible against the dirtier, yellowed, overall appearance of the entirety.