A major restoration project of the Royal Academy of Arts, London, included the overhaul of their windvane and indicator dial together with a companion clock dial. The 1.7m diameter dials occupy two separate towers on the Burlington Gardens elevation.
The wind indicator transmission was in good order and only required cleaning and lubrication. The vane itself was so weather-beaten that some parts had almost disappeared. Careful attention was paid to replicate these, particularly the finial which we rebuilt from brass to the correct pro le, then hand- finished.
The dials were cleaned to bare metal, repaired where necessary and re nished to ensure their long-term survival. We used the most durable paint and sealants but kept with tradition and matched the original type
of pot opal glass when re-glazing. The dial details are embellished with 231⁄2 carat gold leaf. Synchronous drive with automated battery backup and Summer/Winter time change keeps the clock to time.
View Royal Academy of Arts Clock Restoration Case Study