1/37 Personalised Oak Box from a 90 year old Swisscross Kit
This kit dated 1930 had never been put together. It had been kept in its original cardboard box and had not been subject to damp.
The box itself is solid close grained Oak, which has been machine jointed and glued and then cut to separate the lid in the traditional way, so that the grain all matches.
The original hinges, catch and banding were not good quality and would not create a classic look.
The 1/18 note movement, made by Thorens, was all metal and a good quality module playing approximately 10 seconds of 'Smoke Gets In You Eyes'. Rarely for this size movement it has a control brake that stops the cylinder at the end of the tune. This is much better for the longevity of the comb which would otherwise stop part way with the possibility of damage to the fingers.
However, the tune is short and not exactly 'hip'!
All the components to complete the box, including brass banding to make it look like a treasure chest, had been supplied within the original kit, although a couple of bits had disappeared. Luckily I didn't want them anyway because I had a cunning plan ...
The box itself is solid close grained Oak, which has been machine jointed and glued and then cut to separate the lid in the traditional way, so that the grain all matches.
The original hinges, catch and banding were not good quality and would not create a classic look.
The 1/18 note movement, made by Thorens, was all metal and a good quality module playing approximately 10 seconds of 'Smoke Gets In You Eyes'. Rarely for this size movement it has a control brake that stops the cylinder at the end of the tune. This is much better for the longevity of the comb which would otherwise stop part way with the possibility of damage to the fingers.
However, the tune is short and not exactly 'hip'!
All the components to complete the box, including brass banding to make it look like a treasure chest, had been supplied within the original kit, although a couple of bits had disappeared. Luckily I didn't want them anyway because I had a cunning plan ...
So, what's the plan?
The box is to be a keepsake / jewellery box for my Granddaughter.
I have now fitted some polished brass hinges and a brass lock and keep with a fancy key with red tassel.
The top has been inlaid with the initials EJB.
The custom 50mm diameter marquetry inlay in walnut and sycamore shown below was purchased for £16 from QJS Marquetry. I highly recommended the personal service offered by Quentin Smith.
A brand new 37 note movement with sliding control system was ordered from N J Dean & Co. has been fitted in the left hand compartment with a perspex lid so that the movement can be viewed, but not touched.
The right hand trinket compartment and inside of the lid are lined with red velvet.
The exterior and exposed interior wood is coated with clear lacquer.
The box is to be a keepsake / jewellery box for my Granddaughter.
I have now fitted some polished brass hinges and a brass lock and keep with a fancy key with red tassel.
The top has been inlaid with the initials EJB.
The custom 50mm diameter marquetry inlay in walnut and sycamore shown below was purchased for £16 from QJS Marquetry. I highly recommended the personal service offered by Quentin Smith.
A brand new 37 note movement with sliding control system was ordered from N J Dean & Co. has been fitted in the left hand compartment with a perspex lid so that the movement can be viewed, but not touched.
The right hand trinket compartment and inside of the lid are lined with red velvet.
The exterior and exposed interior wood is coated with clear lacquer.
The final stages. Just a clear plexiglass screen to add to protect the movement.
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