Rearview mirror with mechanical clockwork

Werner

Werner

Well-known member
Hello and happy Advent evening to everyone.


I have a rearview mirror in my roadster with a mechanical clock and Ford logo that seems to be glued on somehow.


Unfortunately, the glass is becoming increasingly cloudy and opaque year after year. I can't find a replacement mirror glass at Don Snyder or MACs.


Does anyone have any good idea?
Thank you in advance for your help.


 

Attachments

  • 01_IMG_20251222_192939753.jpg
    01_IMG_20251222_192939753.jpg
    19.2 KB · Views: 347
Kurt,

making a suitable mirror glass wouldn't be a problem. But creating the free, transparent circular area without the reflective coating – I can't find a master craftsman for that.
 
One cheap option is to cut out and stick a reflective film on the front. There are reflective films that have an aluminum coating and a sticky backing. The aluminum is not as reflective as silver but it is not bad. A little soapy water will help put the film on the glass without bubbles. After installation, trim it to size with a razor blade or sharp knife.
 
Werner,
I know that it can be done. Many years ago, I had a cousin who worked in stained glass, making windows for churches, etc.
I had a similar mirror, but the glass was broken. He was able to cut and bevel a replacement glass, and somehow removed the silvering from the back, and did a beautiful job of it. I would offer to have one made for you, but unfortunately, he passed away at a young age, years ago. Someone who works in glass should be able to do this for you.
Blessed Christmas to you and your family.

Stewart
 
Another alternative would be to make another mirror to glue on the face of your existing one. Make it to match the outside dimensions but shorter to place next to the clock.
 
I would think in Germany there are many artisan clocksmiths and glass shops that could still do these old fashioned specialty jobs. I found both glass bezel manufacturers and special glass cutters here in the States. Internet searches can sometimes be lengthy but persistence will pay off and you will locate someone in good time.
 
Werner, I had a mirror cut by a glass shop. I had them cut a round mark the same as the clock.
Then I used Nitric acid to remove the silver of the mirror in that circle using a Q tip. most likely there is a protective coating covering the silver, that must be removed with a paint solvent before using the Nitric acid. The silver easily wipes off with nitric acid.
 
Back in the 70's my dad replaced a mirror like that. If I remember correctly, he made a circle where the clock went and scraped the silvering off with a razor blade. Not sure if it's possible with today's materials but might be worth checking out.
 
Werner said:
creating the free, transparent circular area without the reflective coating – I can't find a master craftsman for that.
Click to expand...


"master craftsman" isn't needed. Just the right chemicals. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IhMHu87qpmM


A lot of times mirrors are painted on the back to protect the silver. You'll need to remove that first. Get your glass guy to cut you a couple mirrors the right size. Once you've got one finished take it back to him to add the bevel.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top