Graflex clamp help

[CreechMagoo]

Hello, I recently got a new graflex clamp off ebay for a pretty good price but with some mild rust damage, I like the character it added but I want to polish the rusted area back to a mild shine but I'm not sure how to approach it without potentially damaging the whole part. If anyone has any tips on how to bring some shine back to the dark rusted parts your input is much appreciated. I already removed the rust so now I'm just left with the corroded steel.

 

[v312]

You could use fine steel wool (0000). Looks like there's plenty of corrosion under the chrome so some probably will still flake off
Depends on how deep is the corrosion there will be some pitting under the rust ... here's one picture to get you some idea

 

[woodywaverider]

I think they are nickel plated, after removing the corrosion you could get it replated

 

[THX1138]

I'd recommend buying a different (nicer) original clamp on eBay.

Yours will never look right after trying to polish it, and it has some pretty bad rust.

There's a couple on there now for well under $200.00.

- Jim

 

[CreechMagoo]

I'd recommend buying a different (nicer) original clamp on eBay.

Yours will never look right after trying to polish it, and it has some pretty bad rust.

There's a couple on there now for well under $200.00.

- Jim

yeah I was considering it but i like the wear, it matches some of the wear on my other original parts so I just wanted to make it less prominent but keep the character it adds

 

[Jediseth]

yeah I was considering it but i like the wear, it matches some of the wear on my other original parts so I just wanted to make it less prominent but keep the character it adds

I'd just seal the areas so It doesn't contiue to rust over time and leave it as it. It's sweet looking and It would look great on an all real parts Obi.

 

[CreechMagoo]

I'd just seal the areas so It doesn't contiue to rust over time and leave it as it. It's sweet looking and It would look great on an all real parts Obi.

what would you use to seal it without sacrificing the surface finish?

 

[Jediseth]

what would you use to seal it without sacrificing the surface finish?

Unless it’s a Folmer I’d just put a light spray coat of flat clear coat. You could maybe apply it with a ear swab in places too.

 

[Twisty]

I would recommend leaving it as is. The only reason it’s rusted in the first place is because it was probably left in a damp basement or a leaky attic for 70+ years.
it shouldn’t get any worse if it’s in a climate controlled area like your home.
Plus it adds character to the piece!

I second THX1138, scan eBay for a clamp in better condition. It’s not hard to find one with a little patience. Or you can always go with a replica. Just my two cents. Hope this helps and congrats on adding that piece to your saber

 

[CreechMagoo]

I would recommend leaving it as is. The only reason it’s rusted in the first place is because it was probably left in a damp basement or a leaky attic for 70+ years.
it shouldn’t get any worse if it’s in a climate controlled area like your home.
Plus it adds character to the piece!

I second THX1138, scan eBay for a clamp in better condition. It’s not hard to find one with a little patience. Or you can always go with a replica. Just my two cents. Hope this helps and congrats on adding that piece to your saber

yeah, the character it adds is growing on me, I like that its naturally weathered which makes it feel more used and in universe.