Care Guide
Complete Care for the “Amber Jumping Chicken”
Preserve finish, protect the mechanism, and keep value intact with practical, low-risk routines that work.
Daily handling & checks
Handle with clean, dry hands. Support from beneath—never squeeze legs or shell. Avoid touching the cam or spring barrel: skin oils encourage corrosion.
During routine handling, listen for scraping, feel for binding, and note any changes in cadence. Early detection keeps repairs small.
Quick inspection
- • Feet pads seated, not peeling
- • Cam path smooth, no burrs
- • Varnish intact; no fresh swirl marks
- • Wind feels even; no gritty spots
Daily checklist
- Hands Clean & dry
- Support Lift from base/body
- Mechanism Do not touch internals
- Loose Look for screws/trim shift
- Sound Note new noises
Cleaning that protects finish
Start dry: soft brush and microfibre remove most dust. Spot-clean only if necessary with barely damp, neutral cloth away from seams and moving parts. Always test in a hidden spot first.
Mechanism care
Never flood the barrel or cam with liquids. Use air puffs to clear dust. If action feels stiff or run-time shortens, book a professional service—improper oiling attracts grit and accelerates wear.
Storage that slows aging
Aim for 45–55% RH and stable temperature. Keep out of direct sun; prefer LED lighting. Use neutral-pH stands and dust covers.
Light & humidity
UV fades inks and yellows varnish. Rotate display pieces seasonally. Track conditions with a small hygrometer in the cabinet.
Storage requirements
- Climate 45–55% RH, stable temp
- Light Indirect, UV-filtered
- Dust Covers or closed cabinet
- Materials Neutral pH supports
- Access Easy inspection monthly
Regular operation
Give a gentle wind every few months and let it run down fully. Avoid over-winding; stop at resistance. This distributes existing lubricant and keeps the spring responsive.
Warning signs
Gritty feel, squeal, shorter run-time, or off-rhythm hops indicate service is due. Do not force a stuck key—pause and consult a pro.
Common problems & fixes
Spring fatigue
Natural aging shortens run-time. Solution: professional mainspring replacement to original spec.
Debris in the cam path
Dust increases drag and scoring. Solution: careful disassembly/cleaning by a specialist; avoid DIY solvents.
Prevention
- Operate Gentle wind, full run-down
- Store Stable RH · indirect light
- Handle Clean hands · base support
- Inspect Monthly visual checks
- Service Pro lubrication if stiff
When to seek a professional
Significant corrosion, jammed barrels, fractured feet, or any work near the cam stack warrants expert attention. Ask for before/after examples and conservation-first methods.
Choosing a restorer
Look for experience with mid-century tinplate. Request written estimates and reversible procedures.
Typical services
- Mechanics Cleaning & lubrication
- Spring Barrel & mainspring work
- Finish Gentle surface consolidation
- Assessment Condition & valuation
- Conservation Display & storage planning
Long-term preservation
Keep records of condition, maintenance, and provenance with photos. Review insurance yearly and update valuations.
Documentation
A simple spreadsheet or card system helps track changes and plan service before issues grow.
Preservation checklist
- Records Photos + dates + notes
- Insurance Annual review
- Security Stable cabinet, low UV
- Consult Pro advice when in doubt
- Succession Plans for future owners
Immediate response
Stop operation, stabilize in a padded tray, document with photos. Do not attempt to wind or “test” again—wait for assessment.
Prevent further damage
Keep dust-free, low-humidity, and untouched. Pack for transit only after a restorer confirms safe methods.
Suggested schedule
Daily
Clean-hand handling; quick look for loose parts or fresh marks.
Weekly
Dust covers, light brush, verify feet and stance, short test run if desired.
Monthly
Check RH/temperature, inspect cam wear, update notes and photos.
Annual tasks
- Assessment Full condition review
- Cleaning Deep clean (if needed)
- Mechanism Service if run-time falls
- Environment Display/storage audit
- Valuation Insurance & appraisal update
Need tailored care advice?
We’re happy to help with identification, safe cleaning, or storage planning.