An antique shop owner sent us a G&F Searchlight radio that was completely original. Unfortunately the prior owner must have stored the radio in a barn, which is evident by the condition shown in the BEFORE pictures.

This customer wanted to keep it original to the extent possible. He decided to go in the direction of sympathetic restoration that keeps the radio as close to original as possible.

Before the cabinet restoration began, the chassis was pulled and shipped out for a complete electronic restoration. 

The cabinet finish was coated with dirt/grime and the varnish had become darkened by oxidation and UV exposure. That was the real challenge as I worked through the process of improving the cabinet’s appearance.

The cabinet restoration is now complete. Please compare the before and after pictures provided below.