Mariners compass

[Maureen12345]

Hi, I'm restoring a mariners compass that belonged to my grandfather. The paint inside the compass was chipping off and affecting the reading. I've taken it apart and stripped the old paint which I suspect was lead based. The housing is made of copper. I have two questions. What kind of paint do I use to restore the inside of the housing? and what kind of liquid was in there. It smells a little like gas, is clear and slightly oily. Whatever type of paint I use must be able to be submerged in this liquid. Help!

 

[JB]

Re: Mariners compass

The liquid is usually odorless mineral spirits, Maureen. You can get it at any drug or paint store.<br /><br />Good luck, and welcome aboard.

 

[Maureen12345]

Re: Mariners compass

Thank you! Any thoughts on what kind of paint to use on the inside? It must be able to withhold the mineral spirits. If I leave it as is, it's copper and brass, will those metals affect the readings if I leave it unpainted? I kind of wanted to restore it to it's original state as much as possible. It's a beautiful piece, fingerjointed teak with brass fittings and is at least 80 years old.

 

[JB]

Re: Mariners compass

I would probably prefer to leave the interior unpainted, but highly polished, Maureen.<br /><br />I don't have a mental picture of your compass so I don't know what effect an interior paint might have on lighting. If you feel that you need a white interior to ease reading of the card I would investigate a polyurethane or epoxy white.<br /><br />Good luck.

 

[crab bait]

Re: Mariners compass

is that 'spirits' or mineral oil,, JB..??