Beautiful job on the cabinet restoration! I'll offer a little advice since, being a guitar maker, I have a lot of experience creating sunburst finishes and mirrored, very high gloss finishes. Your surface prep was spot on. As for spraying the contrasting dark part of the burst, I wouldn't start by darkening the edges as you did. You should spray the surface from a little bit farther away as well so you get a more gradual blend to the center. This is hard to describe but try to start spraying with almost all of the spray cone off the edge of the surface working your way in with each pass. Spray with your spray gun positioned at the center of the piece, angled toward each edge. As you bring the spray cone in from either the left or the right, it will darken the edges that receive more of the overall color as you move into the center of the surface. You will get a more gradual blend this way. For acrylic finishes, the best product I have ever used is Target Coatings EM6000. It is a waterborne finish that actually has "burn in" just like nitrocellulose. Absolutely no "witness lines" that you get when you apply separate layers of clearcoat stacked one on top of one another, and wet sand through layers. Also, very important...acrylic finishes dry after 30 minutes but they are not cured for a week or so. The longer you let an acrylic finish cure, the harder it becomes and it is much easier to create a clear, incredibly glossy finish. You did an excellent job but I thought I'd just throw in a few tips! Cheers!
Hi MrCrystalcranium, Thanks for the tips. I would do the sunburst differently next time and do it as you say, I had no idea how to do it initially. We don't have the EM6000 acrylic finish in Oz. Thanks for the advice MrCrystalcranium, printed and saved in my usefull tips folder 👍😀
Another gem. Having a German heart but born in Sweden brings tears to my eyes how beautiful it turned out. Many thanks for your instructive videos which will help me with my wire player and 2 reel tape players.
Thanks Harald. It did come up very well and works very well too. I was nervous doing the sunburst finish but it worked out OK, a nice radio in my collection 🙂
A beautiful restoration of a beautiful radio. Your workmanship is outstanding. The videos you make are so enjoyable to watch. Thank you very much David.
I read the comments before even being halfway through the video. I read people liked the wood-finish. Boy were they right, that finish is spectacular! Thanks David for showing this.
David what an AMAZING radio! It is STUNNING! The cabinet work you did is spectacular. Your entire restoration is impeccable. You are a true craftsman and artist combined into one. The sound is SO rich and awesome. Thank you for such a great restoration series. Truly a joy to watch your work sir. Stay safe and healthy.
Beautiful work, not only for the radio finish, but your video production techniques, which are clear, seamless, and always helpful to illustrate what you're doing. Many thanks.
Mr. Tipton, your knowledge and craftsmanship is beyond anything I've ever seen. you mix science and art to create masterpieces for the new generations to admire. keep the good work.
Very nicely done. Everyone is amazed when they hear old Grundigs, Nordmendes and other German radios from this era when they are fully restored. The 1950s and 1960s German radios really have a great sound.
I used to be a gunsmith, a large part of the work involved refinishing stocks that had been repaired. Surprising how angry some hunters get, so angry that they often break the stocks on their rifles when they miss a shot, at least in my part of the world. Had one guy come in with 4 rifles, seems they had killed a deer, everyone lay down their rifles in the grass as they began the process of gutting the animal, one kid went to get the pickup, and when he arrived, he drove right over the rifles, breaking all the stocks at the wrist. At any rate, the work you did on that radio would make any gun owner damn proud if he received a refinished stock that looked that good. Well done.
Excellent restoration. The radio has superior sound for mono. The refinishing . . . Well you have arrived my friend. Superior finish. I worked for 40 years as an automotive paint expert. Great finish coming from a rattle can! I look forward to your next restoration. Brad
Hi Brad, thanks. The radio sounds very nice. The acrylic paint in the can works very well, I have used it a number of times with great success. I have it in a 4lt can as well but the rattle cans were on special and I don't have to clean the gun 😀
Absolutely outstanding work David. No shortcuts with any finishing work so a splendid result. Hope you and all your family are keeping well through the current virus and all it’s restrictions. Cheers Lynton.
Great work with the sunburst finish! It's a classic for Fender and Gibson guitars. Still super popular today. Another great work done, thanks for these awesome restorations!
I guess you are the very best at refinishing the radio cabinet with all of it's little intricacies, of anyone i have ever seen. You could restore antique radio cabinets and make a good living I would think. Good work pays well in most trades. It is a blast to watch you do this work, thank you for your efforts to publish it here on RUclips.
M A G I C H A N D S I wish I had teachers like you when I was young. The way you explain and show how to do it, every little detail. Your video's are to save for posterity and has historical value already. I think we live in a modern dark age, a few of your kind are left. Television companies like National Geographic or Discovery should approach you.
Absolutely fabulous job, David! Your standard of “that looks pretty good” is near perfection! This radio has received the ultimate compliment -- wife approval for the kitchen!
I have used wood alcohol to clean the plastic knobs very successfully, and for the hard to reach areas a fine tooth brush. What dedication to your restoration David ! Walt
Hi David, I really enjoy your video's. This radio adventure was an amazing trip! It brought back fun memories for me playing with Radios. Got interested in Radio back in 1968 when my dad bought a CB radio of all things. Since then I have enjoyed bringing back many old Valve radios back to life and have so much enjoyed the hobby! I have an Amateur Radio license and currently still love the old radios! Nothing is inviting as the Warm Glow of a Vacuum Tube and the sense of relaxing and just down right enjoyment they bring. Kids today are missing the peace and those feelings of warmth those old sets provided....Something was really special about them really! I am glad to see you enjoying each rebuild and each restore you accomplish right before our eyes! Thanks you so much for providing a good clean fun adventure! Peace!
HI Maxedout MegaBlith, thank you. My channel and others like it seem to rekindle fond memories of simpler times. Restoring these radios is an amazing experience for me and I often wonder of the people who designed and built them and the people who owned them. Thank you for watching 👍🙂
@@DavidTipton101 I have wondered the same. I know if they could Talk they could certainly tell us some stories. I love your channel, love the restores and actually have learned a great deal. I am working on a Drake 2b Receiver right now and actually watching your channel has helped me greatly. I have an AM transmitter and been getting it back on the Air and the Drake will make a nice Receiver once it's back on the air. Look forward to your next Radio Adventure!
@@maxedoutmegablith6473 The Drake is a beast of a radio, that would be good fun to work on. I'm also hoping to set up an AM transmitter. Looks like we are on the same page 🙂
@@DavidTipton101 Yes David the old Drake is something special. I had a Hallicrafters SX101 and wow it weighed in about 95 pounds! Excellent Receiver! I look forward to seeing you get and set up an AM Transmitter! How awesome! I have an Amateur Radio License for like 32 years or more so hey would be great to hear you sometime on the Air Waves!
I literally keep an eye on RUclips everyday to see if you post something new. You sir, are a true inspiration for me. Please keep these excellent videos coming. I am in awe at your patience with the smallest detail. Regards from South Africa
Hi Enriko in South Africa. Thank you, I try to post a video on friday night local time. For series videos I try to post over consecutive weeks but then might miss a week or two to recuperate 👍😀
Dear David, amazing job with the radio housing. This radio made it a long way from Nordmende/Hamburg to Down Under! Keep it up. Greetings from Germany and stay healthy.
I had every confidence this radio would work out the way it did. However, I was very surprised by the sound. Pretty amazing. That blocker circuit is advanced engineering for sure, at least it seems to be. The FM is spot on from here. What a fantastic tuner. This was indeed another fun adventure in hanging out in David's shop, fixing cool stuff.
Hi Craig, I'm glad you were confident, I wasn't. It sounds amazing, it took me by surprise when I first tuned it in after alignment. I have never heard of an IF blocker circuit, luckily Derek contacted me and explained what to do 🙂 every radio is a bit of an adventure for me 🤦♂️😀
Another excellent restoration Dave,although I admire your electronics expertise,(love that magic eye) the highlight for me, of every radio is the cabinet,I did wince when you scraped off all the original colouring,the end result is nothing short of spectacular,brilliant,well done mate.
David an amazing cabinet repair - I was so impressed with the finished product (you know that I prefer the wooden cases) and you have turned this in to a really impressive project and of course a few small lathe jobs as well.
How lovely is this .. I remember of my childhood when my grand father had a vintage radio .. Marvelous sound ! Thank you for restore such beautiful radio ..
Just gorgeous with the gold against the ivory plastic. Such quality, like a Mercedes Benz of the same period. The cabinet came out so well, really special. Cheers.
I am an auto detailer (23 years). I have used my Citrus based solvent on the cloth of 4different radios and vacuumed it out carefully. This technique worked for me quite well. 📻🙂
David Tipton If you try this , please note: The main ingredient in these citrus based solvents is “D-Limoline” I get it in concentrated form so must cut it, but the advantage is that it dries complete, and leaves no residue. ( this is my main cleaner for all interiors, including exotic and antique cars, fine leather, and even on suede . I’ve been using it for several years). 📻🙂
David Tipton Make sure of the specific ingredient: “D-Limoline”. There are tons of so-called “ citrus “ cleaners but they are basic Alkaline / alkali with a citrus scent. Those are more corrosive, and leave residue. Experiment and play around with the citrus solvent first. Use it on other materials and newer cloth. I say this, because it acts differently . Get to know what to expect. And please, let me know results ❗️ 📻🙂
One of the finest cabinets ever! I think that ..to repair such "history pieces" We must be...part electronic technician, part upholsterer, part cabinet maker....also manage different paints: wood, metal, cars......beeswax!! ,,,,and, of course, like in the "capacitor + resistor" chapter, have some good virtual friends to land us a hand.....what am I missing? Oh, Yes: being a juggler maybe helps, sometimes! Thanks a lot for your videos!!!! and ..."It's never late to teach and learn!"
Hello RI, I agree, it pays to be handy on several fronts. The finish on this was giving me palpitations but it came out very nicely, not quite right but will pass. Thanks RI 👍🙂
@@DavidTipton101 Oh. It came out perfect! I had palpitation every time I used paint striper on those wood cabinets....kept tihinking "It will come apart!". I always wrap a striper coated cabinet in plastic kitchen wrap....It does not dry out so quickly and works better. Thanks You!
Sir your job is amazing, I watching your videos from over a year ago but i decide to comment now 😀 really enjoy watching your videos and I have learned many things such as be patience. You are talented, polite and sometimes really funny.
David thanks for a great presentation on cabinet working it's clear that you are getting better at your new skills.Thanks for sharing and that new radio. WOW!
Hi Dennis, I'm pleased to say my skill level is getting better but still room for improvement, I learn something every time. I think I should nail it in another 10 years 👍😄
Thank you so much Mr. Tipton for sharing your time and expertise with us! I'm a furniture restorer and If you don't mind, I'd like to make a suggestion. When you're to trying to match the grain on the raw wood, instead of a paint brush and stain, try putting a few drops of India Ink in some denatured alcohol. The alcohol draws the ink into the natural grain of the veneer. If you make the solution weak enough, you can apply multiple coats so it looks rather natural. Just a suggestion. Thanks again for your incredible videos!
My videos are all about me learning new skills so I appreciate helpful comments, thanks AuroraMills. In this case the veneer had cut through to the underlying ply which I think had the grain at 90 degrees to the veneer, would the India Ink work in this case or am I missing the point? 🤔🙂
@@DavidTipton101 Thank you For your kind reply and very good question. The India ink solution works through capillary action. When it works well, there is no black from the ink on the surface of the wood...only deep within the grain. The effect is to create depth, but also to blend areas of discontinuity making the grain appear uniform throughout. In your case - as you correctly identified - I'd be concern the ink would flow into the cracked areas thus creating a cross grain effect. In that case, you can create "false" grain over the cracked area with a razor blade. You lightly, and randomly score the wood in the direction you WANT the grain to go. Would it work in your case? I'm not not sure, but on future projects, you might try experimenting with the concept. Probably the best advice I could give would be to take samples of wood you commonly work with and play around with the ratio of India ink, method of distribution, how long you let it set before wiping, etc. Label each sample and stick them in a drawer. Then when you have a project, you can get an approximation of how it will look. Again, thank you for your wonderful videos!. The only problem is they're not long enough, or frequent enough! Best to you and yours Mr. Tipton.
Another master piece of restoration David ,love the wood work finish looks like it been french polished top marks all round , superb sound to go with it ,I always enjoy and look forward to you projects .Thumbs up
Timberworks by Tipton. Absolutely fantastic job. A replacement grill cloth will be a tough find with that silver woven into it. Love any radio with a "magic eye"! Impressive restoration work!!! Radio sounds factory new. 📻👍🏻👍🏻
Thank you he's the Master, I am trying to source a reproduction cloth now, hopefully I can get a peice. This radio is a cut above most radios we had here at the time and it sounds better than I expected, thanks 😀
David, Once again, an amazing job! Easy to see why your wife would lay claim to this one! I had already wanted to have a lathe, but now you have me going crazy because I can't afford one right now. Using yours to polish the knobs...man what genius that was! There were some really great advice and offer of help comments this time too...but you also cam up with equally amazing and brilliant ideas! Keep up the excellent work! Stay Safe, Stay Healthy, Stay Happy, and Continue To Enjoy Your Adventures!
Hi Wayne, thank you. The lathe is extremely useful, I was going to get a cheap Chinese one which would have done the job but held out for a better quality one, still Chinese made but German specifications for a German company. I still managed without one for quite a while. There was some great advice from commenters, I was most grateful to get them too, nothing beats experience. I hope you and family are all well Wayne, all the best 👍😀
It was an absolute pleasure to watch you work this radio. Compliments for your eye for detail. I’m really looking forward to your next restoration video.
@@DavidTipton101 Ive had to watch this video 3 times now. 1) Pure enjoyment value. 2) Taking notes on fixes and tips 3) Writing down product names and grades of sandpaper etc. They dont run classes on fixing these old radios but your videos fill the gaps for the things I cant read up on.
What a beauty! I have a bigger Nordmende "Parsifal" which also sounds amazing. You'll find that the treble control works in the reverse direction compared to the Bass. If you google Sunburst Finishing you'll come across a neat trick. You can place a "fence" along the line you want by laying a piece of board or cardboard to mask the line you want to make, BUT, you raise it about 3cm above the surface to get the fading effect as well as a nice straight line.
Hi Derek, thank you. I didn't notice the treble, I'll check. That was one of the ideas I had, using a raised mask but thought it would give too much of a straight line, the original was a bit freestyle, not that I achieved the exact original look mind you 👍😀
Very nice finish on the wood, shame about the fabric though. Maybe someone will have some. Nice job David, it almost make me want it as well. Wife wouldn't have it though. She like cheap looking plastic things from Japan! Wonderful job on restoring it. What a shine on that cabinet!
I had already started work when this one was released so I had to wait all day to watch it, but it was worth it! It makes my mind boggle a bit the amount of skill you have in so many areas. Really nice result and a really enjoyable repair to watch. Can't wait to watch the next one.
Hello David If you put a foil on the paintstripper it does not dry out so quickly . If you warmed up the spray can a bit (bucket of warm water) the pressure in the can increases a little bit and this creates a finer spray clear paint . I restore a Loewe Opta Bella Luxus , also in sunburst design . I put black schellack on the casing , looks also nice . Your casing looks now very nice , thumbs up . Greets Uli
Hi Uli, good idea with the foil and the spray can. I didn't know you could get black Shellac, I guess I could tint normal Shellac, that's an interesting thought Uli, cheers 😀
The radio sounds and looks (in my opinion) like it's brand new and just came off the store shelf. I heard you say you had not tried anything like finishing the cabinet in that particular manner. I would say you are capable of anything you set your mind to. That cabinet is absolutely beautiful and the finish looks just as good as if not better than the factory finish. Kudos!
Hi TheGrouchyGuy, thank you. The finish came out very nice and I hadn't done it before so spent many sleepless nights wondering how to do it, fortunately it worked out for me. Thanks for your comment 😀
Great restoration !!! The finishing of wood cabinet is fantastic. I see twice time to understand process, this class will be classic !!!! Congratulation - Sao Paulo - Brazil
Your finish on the cabinet is simply amazing. You’re helping me build confidence to tackle a couple radios of my own. I have the electronics side no problem, but the veneer and finish work frightens me lol.
Hi Dan, it's learning process but you can only have a go, I have stripped back and started again in the early days when the finish isn't what I expected. Good luck 👍🙂
Fantastic radio! I was surprised at how good it sounds. As for the touchup work, the case looks good and no one will see it. If you tackle something like that again, you might want to consider sealing the wood before applying the touch up color; that will prevent the stain from bleeding into the wood and spreading around. Also, you can always cut-down bristles to make the brush smaller for fine detail.
Thank you for making these videos I’m always excited to see them. If you can’t find a flat head screw you could always use metric bolt and Machine it into a Panhead flat.
I'll get some when I go to Woolies James. The fabric was a bit fragile so I didn't want to rub it and I didn't want to wet it as the glue might fail. I'm on the lookout for some new cloth, thanks for the tip James 👍😀
America used to have a similar color but it was called copper tone. My paintings looks horrible I don't have the talent you do. Lovely radio thank you so much for sharing.
Wow. Sounds great. The cabinet came out really well. I think it's prettier than the original. I was thinking about the damaged area. I saw a guy scrape some wood off the inside of his cabinet creating a fine saw dust; then he mixed it with just a little wood glue to produce a fill for the cracks on the exterior of his radio. I wonder if that sort of ploy is any good on future projects. Excellent video. Much appreciated.
Hi George, yes, that would have worked, particularly as the stain was mixed with the top coat. If it was stain was applied directly to the job the stain wouldn't penetrate the glue. I wasn't keen to play with it and make it worse. It came out pretty good considering, It doesn't stand out unless you go looking for it. Thanks for the comments 😀
You and Shango066 go hand 🤚 in hand 🤚, in a way. I say this, because about a year ago, Shango066 resurrected a NordMende, console style AM/FM radio with record player. All in a real wooden case. All steel record player and turntable. A good thing about it is the AC motor. And quality stuff that really lasts.. Even the rubber idler wheel has lasted 50-60 years. Lighted radio dial glass. Bad sounding record player, because the cartridge is dead after all those years. Resurrectable, YES YOU BET!! Yes, it is a tube type radio 📻. This radio you are working on is a NordMende, but without a record player.. I believe both of these products are built by the same manufacturer. This radio you are working on reminds me of a world band/AM/FM radio 📻 I bought at Radio Shack in 2000. Yours is the better radio. Mine was sturdily built, but yours has value. Mine was only $41.00, new. Yours is the better radio, if they get dropped.
Again a lovely Job, I just love your attention to detail, you sometimes put yourself down when you shouldn't, you do wonderful work it's pleasure watching you work thanks for great videos 👍.
Wow now that's top shelf work on that cabinet your wife better wear sunglasses in the kitchen it's going to shine like a Diamond in the Sun . Look forward to your next rebuild.
Dave, i know of no better way of starting my day than watching one of your videos. Man this one was surely incredibly satisfying. I was really wondering how you would re-stain the cabinet to keep the beautiful sunburst effect and boy you did you do a good job on it. Wish i could find a matching piece of cloth for you for this one. I'll keep an eye opened. I liked the covid jingle, made me smile for a second. Have a great day and thank's for sharing yet again another fantastic video. Also a big shout out to everyone helping you out with electronics' advises, great cooperation from the community. Have a great day mate.
Thanks SargentRay. Please keep an eye out for some cloth, it needs replacing. Doing the cabinet was a gamble, it could have been the end of the radio if it didn't work. These European radios are a world away from what I'm used to and it was a real struggle to start with, I am very grateful to the folk who offered advice and offered to translate for me. The Covid 19 jingle is well done, the link to the full version is in the description. Cheers! 👍😀
That was just amazing work. I am considering shipping my cabinets to you for that part of the work :) Thanks for that. A fantastic job, incredibly well presented. I’m going to mention this video as a reference in my next tube radio restoration, because my cabinet work is my really weak point. Keep safe.
You said it “Amazing”. It turned out absolutely perfect, what a beautiful radio. Thanks for doing what you do and letting us watch .
Hi David, thank you and you are welcome 😀
Beautiful job on the cabinet restoration! I'll offer a little advice since, being a guitar maker, I have a lot of experience creating sunburst finishes and mirrored, very high gloss finishes. Your surface prep was spot on. As for spraying the contrasting dark part of the burst, I wouldn't start by darkening the edges as you did. You should spray the surface from a little bit farther away as well so you get a more gradual blend to the center. This is hard to describe but try to start spraying with almost all of the spray cone off the edge of the surface working your way in with each pass. Spray with your spray gun positioned at the center of the piece, angled toward each edge. As you bring the spray cone in from either the left or the right, it will darken the edges that receive more of the overall color as you move into the center of the surface. You will get a more gradual blend this way.
For acrylic finishes, the best product I have ever used is Target Coatings EM6000. It is a waterborne finish that actually has "burn in" just like nitrocellulose. Absolutely no "witness lines" that you get when you apply separate layers of clearcoat stacked one on top of one another, and wet sand through layers. Also, very important...acrylic finishes dry after 30 minutes but they are not cured for a week or so. The longer you let an acrylic finish cure, the harder it becomes and it is much easier to create a clear, incredibly glossy finish. You did an excellent job but I thought I'd just throw in a few tips! Cheers!
Hi MrCrystalcranium, Thanks for the tips. I would do the sunburst differently next time and do it as you say, I had no idea how to do it initially. We don't have the EM6000 acrylic finish in Oz. Thanks for the advice MrCrystalcranium, printed and saved in my usefull tips folder 👍😀
@@DavidTipton101 You're welcome mate!
Another gem. Having a German heart but born in Sweden brings tears to my eyes how beautiful it turned out. Many thanks for your instructive videos which will help me with my wire player and 2 reel tape players.
Thanks Harald. It did come up very well and works very well too. I was nervous doing the sunburst finish but it worked out OK, a nice radio in my collection 🙂
A beautiful restoration of a beautiful radio. Your workmanship is outstanding. The videos you make are so enjoyable to watch. Thank you very much David.
Many thanks robbyxp1, glad you enjoy them 👍😀
I read the comments before even being halfway through the video. I read people liked the wood-finish. Boy were they right, that finish is spectacular! Thanks David for showing this.
Thanks Manny 👍😀
David what an AMAZING radio! It is STUNNING! The cabinet work you did is spectacular. Your entire restoration is impeccable. You are a true craftsman and artist combined into one. The sound is SO rich and awesome. Thank you for such a great restoration series. Truly a joy to watch your work sir. Stay safe and healthy.
Hi Gregg, thank you, that's high praise indeed from one perfectionist to another. Thank and stay safe yourself 😀
Beautiful work, not only for the radio finish, but your video production techniques, which are clear, seamless, and always helpful to illustrate what you're doing. Many thanks.
Thank you Moshe, Thanks for the comment on the video, I appreciate that 👍😀
Mr. Tipton, your knowledge and craftsmanship is beyond anything I've ever seen. you mix science and art to create masterpieces for the new generations to admire. keep the good work.
Thank you Suhayl, I will try 👍😀
Very nicely done. Everyone is amazed when they hear old Grundigs, Nordmendes and other German radios from this era when they are fully restored. The 1950s and 1960s German radios really have a great sound.
thay sure did 1967 😀
I used to be a gunsmith, a large part of the work involved refinishing stocks that had been repaired. Surprising how angry some hunters get, so angry that they often break the stocks on their rifles when they miss a shot, at least in my part of the world. Had one guy come in with 4 rifles, seems they had killed a deer, everyone lay down their rifles in the grass as they began the process of gutting the animal, one kid went to get the pickup, and when he arrived, he drove right over the rifles, breaking all the stocks at the wrist. At any rate, the work you did on that radio would make any gun owner damn proud if he received a refinished stock that looked that good. Well done.
This cabinet would have been right up your alley Jerry. I bet the lad driving the pickup was popular 😄
I get the biggest thrill out of watching you work. You do great work.
Hi Phil, thank you very much 😀
That radio is now a work of art. Thanks for another interesting video.
Thank you birdie399 😀
Excellent restoration. The radio has superior sound for mono. The refinishing . . . Well you have arrived my friend. Superior finish. I worked for 40 years as an automotive paint expert. Great finish coming from a rattle can! I look forward to your next restoration. Brad
Hi Brad, thanks. The radio sounds very nice. The acrylic paint in the can works very well, I have used it a number of times with great success. I have it in a 4lt can as well but the rattle cans were on special and I don't have to clean the gun 😀
First class work on the timber case. That finish is outstanding.
Thanks Mark, I was very happy with the outcome, I was pretty nervous when I started though 🙂
Absolutely outstanding work David. No shortcuts with any finishing work so a splendid result. Hope you and all your family are keeping well through the current virus and all it’s restrictions. Cheers Lynton.
Hi Lynton thank you. We are doing OK thank you, not so good in your country unfortunately. Keep safe and thank you for you comment, Cheers 😀
those small imperfections on the case gives it character!..another job well done
That was my thinking too Doug, I was never going to hide them 👍🙂
German engineering at its finest! That case looks better than the day it rolled off the assembly line. Very satisfying video Dave 👍
Thank you Eric 😀
Great work with the sunburst finish! It's a classic for Fender and Gibson guitars. Still super popular today. Another great work done, thanks for these awesome restorations!
Thank you Luigi. I remember seeing it on guitars, cheers 😀
I guess you are the very best at refinishing the radio cabinet with all of it's little intricacies, of anyone i have ever seen. You could restore antique radio cabinets and make a good living I would think. Good work pays well in most trades. It is a blast to watch you do this work, thank you for your efforts to publish it here on RUclips.
Hi Jeff, thank you. There are way better people out there but I appreciate your thoughts. Thank you for watching and you are most welcome 😀
M A G I C H A N D S
I wish I had teachers like you when I was young. The way you explain and show how to do it, every little detail. Your video's are to save for posterity and has historical value already. I think we live in a modern dark age, a few of your kind are left. Television companies like National Geographic or Discovery should approach you.
Wow santioriginal , that's very kind of you. I am very happy you enjoyed the video series, cheers 👍😀
Absolutely fabulous job, David! Your standard of “that looks pretty good” is near perfection!
This radio has received the ultimate compliment -- wife approval for the kitchen!
Haha, I am prone to understatement 😄 Thanks Super Het 🙂
I have used wood alcohol to clean the plastic knobs very successfully, and for the hard to reach areas a fine tooth brush. What dedication to your restoration David ! Walt
Hi Walt, thank you. I don't think we can get wood alcohol here, the closest would be metho or denatured alcohol 🤔🙂
@@DavidTipton101 Yes David, denatured alcohol is the same! Walt
@H Higgins Our 'Metho' is only 10% wood alcohol apparently. We can get the faux nail polish remover Ok
Hi David, I really enjoy your video's. This radio adventure was an amazing trip! It brought back fun memories for me playing with Radios. Got interested in Radio back in 1968 when my dad bought a CB radio of all things. Since then I have enjoyed bringing back many old Valve radios back to life and have so much enjoyed the hobby! I have an Amateur Radio license and currently still love the old radios! Nothing is inviting as the Warm Glow of a Vacuum Tube and the sense of relaxing and just down right enjoyment they bring. Kids today are missing the peace and those feelings of warmth those old sets provided....Something was really special about them really! I am glad to see you enjoying each rebuild and each restore you accomplish right before our eyes! Thanks you so much for providing a good clean fun adventure! Peace!
HI Maxedout MegaBlith, thank you. My channel and others like it seem to rekindle fond memories of simpler times. Restoring these radios is an amazing experience for me and I often wonder of the people who designed and built them and the people who owned them. Thank you for watching 👍🙂
@@DavidTipton101 I have wondered the same. I know if they could Talk they could certainly tell us some stories. I love your channel, love the restores and actually have learned a great deal. I am working on a Drake 2b Receiver right now and actually watching your channel has helped me greatly. I have an AM transmitter and been getting it back on the Air and the Drake will make a nice Receiver once it's back on the air. Look forward to your next Radio Adventure!
@@maxedoutmegablith6473 The Drake is a beast of a radio, that would be good fun to work on. I'm also hoping to set up an AM transmitter. Looks like we are on the same page 🙂
@@DavidTipton101 Yes David the old Drake is something special. I had a Hallicrafters SX101 and wow it weighed in about 95 pounds! Excellent Receiver! I look forward to seeing you get and set up an AM Transmitter! How awesome! I have an Amateur Radio License for like 32 years or more so hey would be great to hear you sometime on the Air Waves!
@@maxedoutmegablith6473 oops, sorry, I was referring to a local in house xmitter. I had my wires crossed 🤦♂️
I literally keep an eye on RUclips everyday to see if you post something new. You sir, are a true inspiration for me. Please keep these excellent videos coming. I am in awe at your patience with the smallest detail. Regards from South Africa
Hi Enriko in South Africa. Thank you, I try to post a video on friday night local time. For series videos I try to post over consecutive weeks but then might miss a week or two to recuperate 👍😀
Your woodworking skills are simply amazing. I really appreciate the effort you put into these restorations.
Thanks lakrfan 49, keep in mind I am only learning 👍😀
Dear David,
amazing job with the radio housing. This radio made it a long way from Nordmende/Hamburg to Down Under! Keep it up. Greetings from Germany and stay healthy.
Hi ThoMe in Germany, thank you. It's a long trip indeed, It's amazing what folks brought with them. All that best to you and stay safe also 😀
The beautiful finish! A restoration technology! Splendid!
Thank you M a d o k a 😀
I had every confidence this radio would work out the way it did. However, I was very surprised by the sound. Pretty amazing. That blocker circuit is advanced engineering for sure, at least it seems to be. The FM is spot on from here. What a fantastic tuner. This was indeed another fun adventure in hanging out in David's shop, fixing cool stuff.
Hi Craig, I'm glad you were confident, I wasn't. It sounds amazing, it took me by surprise when I first tuned it in after alignment. I have never heard of an IF blocker circuit, luckily Derek contacted me and explained what to do 🙂 every radio is a bit of an adventure for me 🤦♂️😀
Another excellent restoration Dave,although I admire your electronics expertise,(love that magic eye) the highlight for me, of every radio is the cabinet,I did wince when you scraped off all the original colouring,the end result is nothing short of spectacular,brilliant,well done mate.
HI Mick, I was wincing the whole time until I got that first coat on 😄 Thank you, you are very kind 👍😀
@@DavidTipton101 I bet you were lol,and you are most welcome Dave.
David an amazing cabinet repair - I was so impressed with the finished product (you know that I prefer the wooden cases) and you have turned this in to a really impressive project and of course a few small lathe jobs as well.
Hi Kenneth, I was apprehensive with this one but it came up as well as I hoped it would. Where would I be without my lathe, cheers 👍🙂
How lovely is this .. I remember of my childhood when my grand father had a vintage radio .. Marvelous sound ! Thank you for restore such beautiful radio ..
Hi Mohammad, it's great to hear this brings back memories for you, thank you 👍😀
Really well done. My respect for your dedication to craftsmanship and attention to detail is unbounded. Charlie
Thank you Charlie 👍😀
Just gorgeous with the gold against the ivory plastic. Such quality, like a Mercedes Benz of the same period. The cabinet came out so well, really special. Cheers.
Hi Pauline , thank you. The build and engineering are pretty impressive alright 👍😀
David,it is such a pleasure to watch your radio restorations ,allways good job
Thank you Ivan 😀
I am an auto detailer (23 years). I have used my
Citrus based solvent on the cloth of 4different radios and vacuumed it out carefully. This technique worked for me quite well.
📻🙂
Great, thanks for the tip Jeff 👍🙂
David Tipton
If you try this , please note:
The main ingredient in these citrus based solvents is “D-Limoline”
I get it in concentrated form so must cut it, but the advantage is that it dries complete, and leaves no residue.
( this is my main cleaner for all interiors, including exotic and antique cars, fine leather, and even on suede . I’ve been using it for several years).
📻🙂
I found some in the local hardware sold as a spray on cleaner. I should try it on the old cloth before I replace it. thanks Jeff 👍
David Tipton
Make sure of the specific ingredient:
“D-Limoline”.
There are tons of so-called “ citrus “ cleaners but they are basic Alkaline / alkali with a citrus scent. Those are more corrosive, and leave residue.
Experiment and play around with the citrus solvent first. Use it on other materials and newer cloth. I say this, because it acts differently . Get to know what to expect.
And please, let me know results ❗️
📻🙂
@@jeffking291 OK, will do Jeff
One of the finest cabinets ever! I think that ..to repair such "history pieces" We must be...part electronic technician, part upholsterer, part cabinet maker....also manage different paints: wood, metal, cars......beeswax!! ,,,,and, of course, like in the "capacitor + resistor" chapter, have some good virtual friends to land us a hand.....what am I missing? Oh, Yes: being a juggler maybe helps, sometimes! Thanks a lot for your videos!!!! and ..."It's never late to teach and learn!"
Hello RI, I agree, it pays to be handy on several fronts. The finish on this was giving me palpitations but it came out very nicely, not quite right but will pass. Thanks RI 👍🙂
@@DavidTipton101 Oh. It came out perfect! I had palpitation every time I used paint striper on those wood cabinets....kept tihinking "It will come apart!". I always wrap a striper coated cabinet in plastic kitchen wrap....It does not dry out so quickly and works better. Thanks You!
David....Excellent work. You have duplicated the sunburst pattern perfectly. Keep up the great work and stay safe.
Hi Skip, thank you and stay safe 😀
Looks and sounds spectacular! The wood looks amazing, tricky to do but you got there. Another feather in your cap!
Hi Paul, thank you. It was a little unnerving but came out great in the end, glad I didn't chicken out 🐤😀
Sir your job is amazing, I watching your videos from over a year ago but i decide to comment now 😀 really enjoy watching your videos and I have learned many things such as be patience. You are talented, polite and sometimes really funny.
Hi Herman, thank you and thank you for writing a comment. I'm so happy you enjoy my videos 👍😃
David thanks for a great presentation on cabinet working it's clear that you are getting better at your new skills.Thanks for sharing and that new radio. WOW!
Hi Dennis, I'm pleased to say my skill level is getting better but still room for improvement, I learn something every time. I think I should nail it in another 10 years 👍😄
Thank you so much Mr. Tipton for sharing your time and expertise with us! I'm a furniture restorer and If you don't mind, I'd like to make a suggestion. When you're to trying to match the grain on the raw wood, instead of a paint brush and stain, try putting a few drops of India Ink in some denatured alcohol. The alcohol draws the ink into the natural grain of the veneer. If you make the solution weak enough, you can apply multiple coats so it looks rather natural. Just a suggestion. Thanks again for your incredible videos!
My videos are all about me learning new skills so I appreciate helpful comments, thanks AuroraMills. In this case the veneer had cut through to the underlying ply which I think had the grain at 90 degrees to the veneer, would the India Ink work in this case or am I missing the point? 🤔🙂
@@DavidTipton101 Thank you For your kind reply and very good question. The India ink solution works through capillary action. When it works well, there is no black from the ink on the surface of the wood...only deep within the grain. The effect is to create depth, but also to blend areas of discontinuity making the grain appear uniform throughout. In your case - as you correctly identified - I'd be concern the ink would flow into the cracked areas thus creating a cross grain effect. In that case, you can create "false" grain over the cracked area with a razor blade. You lightly, and randomly score the wood in the direction you WANT the grain to go. Would it work in your case? I'm not not sure, but on future projects, you might try experimenting with the concept. Probably the best advice I could give would be to take samples of wood you commonly work with and play around with the ratio of India ink, method of distribution, how long you let it set before wiping, etc. Label each sample and stick them in a drawer. Then when you have a project, you can get an approximation of how it will look.
Again, thank you for your wonderful videos!. The only problem is they're not long enough, or frequent enough!
Best to you and yours Mr. Tipton.
Thank you for thorough instructions AuroraMills, I appreciate that greatly. I will experiment as you suggest, thank you again 👍🙂
Dave, Looks amazing and the sound is superb! Well done! Love watching you take your time and do the restores right!
Hi Le, I have nothing but time at the moment. Thank you 😄
@@DavidTipton101 Me too.. In total lockdown here.. can't leave the house. But I can watch you! Thanks !
Another master piece of restoration David ,love the wood work finish looks like it been french polished top marks all round , superb sound to go with it ,I always enjoy and look forward to you projects .Thumbs up
Hi Doc, thank you. The sound from the speaker surprised me, I didn't think it would be up to it 🤔🙂
Timberworks by Tipton. Absolutely fantastic job. A replacement grill cloth will be a tough find with that silver woven into it. Love any radio with a "magic eye"!
Impressive restoration work!!! Radio sounds factory new. 📻👍🏻👍🏻
Thank you he's the Master, I am trying to source a reproduction cloth now, hopefully I can get a peice. This radio is a cut above most radios we had here at the time and it sounds better than I expected, thanks 😀
David,
Once again, an amazing job! Easy to see why your wife would lay claim to this one!
I had already wanted to have a lathe, but now you have me going crazy because I can't afford one right now. Using yours to polish the knobs...man what genius that was!
There were some really great advice and offer of help comments this time too...but you also cam up with equally amazing and brilliant ideas! Keep up the excellent work!
Stay Safe, Stay Healthy, Stay Happy, and Continue To Enjoy Your Adventures!
Hi Wayne, thank you. The lathe is extremely useful, I was going to get a cheap Chinese one which would have done the job but held out for a better quality one, still Chinese made but German specifications for a German company. I still managed without one for quite a while. There was some great advice from commenters, I was most grateful to get them too, nothing beats experience. I hope you and family are all well Wayne, all the best 👍😀
Wow, You did a phenomenal job on this. You’re getting better and better. Kudos 🙌🏻🙌🏻🙌🏻
Thank you Klaus, I am getting more comfortable as I go along no doubt about that, thanks 👍😀
David Tipton I have already adopted some of Your methods for IF alignment. Thank You for sharing! 🙏🏻
This is your best restoration so far. Very impressed.
Thank you Robin 🙂
It was an absolute pleasure to watch you work this radio. Compliments for your eye for detail. I’m really looking forward to your next restoration video.
Thank you Rene, my next one might be a bit easier I hope 😀
You sir are a master and an inspiration. Your work motivates me to keep going on my own radio restoration projects. Thanks David. Martin in Chicago.
Hi Martin in Chicago, glad to help. Good luck with your projects 👍😀
For a first attempt that looks amazing. A really nice looking set. Love the style of some of these old radios. Well done on a nice resto.
Hi Gary, I'll do better next time but very happy with the result, thanks 😀
Great job Dave! I like the Green Screen and that you didn't over do it. The cabinet turned out just beautiful!
Thanks PBR Street Gang. The cabinet turned out great, I was nervous while doing it but very happy with the result 😀
*_Bravo David. It's nicer now than when it was new._*
Hi D. Ilic, thank you 👍🙂
It certainly does look and sound fantastic.
Really nice job as always David
Thank you 1974UTuber. My wife is very happy with it 😀
@@DavidTipton101 Ive had to watch this video 3 times now.
1) Pure enjoyment value.
2) Taking notes on fixes and tips
3) Writing down product names and grades of sandpaper etc.
They dont run classes on fixing these old radios but your videos fill the gaps for the things I cant read up on.
What a beauty! I have a bigger Nordmende "Parsifal" which also sounds amazing. You'll find that the treble control works in the reverse direction compared to the Bass.
If you google Sunburst Finishing you'll come across a neat trick. You can place a "fence" along the line you want by laying a piece of board or cardboard to mask the line you want to make, BUT, you raise it about 3cm above the surface to get the fading effect as well as a nice straight line.
Hi Derek, thank you. I didn't notice the treble, I'll check. That was one of the ideas I had, using a raised mask but thought it would give too much of a straight line, the original was a bit freestyle, not that I achieved the exact original look mind you 👍😀
Very very good. It was very very very beautiful. This precision workmanship. Excellent...It was a pleasure to watch. Thank you!
Mustafa, thank you 👍😀
Very nice finish on the wood, shame about the fabric though. Maybe someone will have some. Nice job David, it almost make me want it as well. Wife wouldn't have it though. She like cheap looking plastic things from Japan! Wonderful job on restoring it. What a shine on that cabinet!
Hi Bob, if the fabric was replaced it would look fabulous, I will look for something. Thanks Bob 😀
@@DavidTipton101 That will just set it off nicely.
I had already started work when this one was released so I had to wait all day to watch it, but it was worth it! It makes my mind boggle a bit the amount of skill you have in so many areas. Really nice result and a really enjoyable repair to watch. Can't wait to watch the next one.
Hi Dave, thank you and sorry you had to wait. I'm glad you enjoyed ti in the end 👍😀
Outstanding. Fantastic set great sound. The cabinet finish magnificent. A radio to treasure.
Hi Ken, thank you 😀
Amazing job
Thank you Meindert Postma 😀
Watching paint dry ..... you make even that interesting to watch.
A wonderfull restoration, it came out great.
greetings from the Netherlands
Nard
Haha... it was a video on watching paint dry, good one 👍😄 Greeting to the Netherlands for sunny Queensland, well not today, it's raining 🙂
I waited impatiently for the final instalment. Simply incredible! Thanks David.
Thanks for waiting Bob 😀
Yes !!!
Friday, Tipton and a good pint 👍
Hi Jerker, thanks, enjoy your pint, cheers! 🍻
Good evening David Sir.Great effort to restore the cabinet in original packaging.Radio now in original as New.Thanks Sir.
Good evening Rakesh, thank you 😀
Hello David
If you put a foil on the paintstripper it does not dry out so quickly .
If you warmed up the spray can a bit (bucket of warm water) the pressure in the can increases a little bit and this creates a finer spray clear paint .
I restore a Loewe Opta Bella Luxus , also in sunburst design .
I put black schellack on the casing , looks also nice .
Your casing looks now very nice , thumbs up .
Greets Uli
Hi Uli, good idea with the foil and the spray can. I didn't know you could get black Shellac, I guess I could tint normal Shellac, that's an interesting thought Uli, cheers 😀
Great job Dave I think you make a great teacher. As the master said in the movie "grasshopper Wax on Wax off".✋
Haha... can I change my name to Mr. Miyagi? I have chopsticks 🥢. Thanks Ernie 🙂
Case looks great and radio sounds great with plenty of bass.
Thanks Brian 😊
What a finish! Fender and Gibson will be getting in touch I'm sure!!!
Thanks Kelly 🙂
Dave, you are truly a master to be admired!
Thanks Eugene, I'm just doing what I can, cheers 👍🙂
The radio sounds and looks (in my opinion) like it's brand new and just came off the store shelf. I heard you say you had not tried anything like finishing the cabinet in that particular manner. I would say you are capable of anything you set your mind to. That cabinet is absolutely beautiful and the finish looks just as good as if not better than the factory finish. Kudos!
Hi TheGrouchyGuy, thank you. The finish came out very nice and I hadn't done it before so spent many sleepless nights wondering how to do it, fortunately it worked out for me. Thanks for your comment 😀
Fantastic work. It looks like a brand new one. Thank you for showing this.
Thank you Günther, my pleasure 🙂
Very nice finish, my grandfather did French polishing as a hobby. Mum would help with the sanding, hours of work with finer and finer paper.
I french polished my first radio Wenlocktvdx, took me a week 😟
Excellent work Dave, you certainly have a well-rounded set of abilities.
Hi Mack, thanks. I see you are out of the snow 👍😀
Fantastic job on the radio! Thanks for sharing the journey.
Thank you for watching Armand 😀
Great restoration !!! The finishing of wood cabinet is fantastic.
I see twice time to understand process, this class will be classic !!!!
Congratulation - Sao Paulo - Brazil
Hi Fernando in Brazil. thank you 👍😀
Brilliant again David, another fine restoration series.
Thank you Parlour Tunes 😀
Beautiful radio outcome, and a really enjoyable series! Thanks!!
Thanks Mike 😀
Your finish on the cabinet is simply amazing. You’re helping me build confidence to tackle a couple radios of my own. I have the electronics side no problem, but the veneer and finish work frightens me lol.
Hi Dan, it's learning process but you can only have a go, I have stripped back and started again in the early days when the finish isn't what I expected. Good luck 👍🙂
Fantastic radio! I was surprised at how good it sounds. As for the touchup work, the case looks good and no one will see it. If you tackle something like that again, you might want to consider sealing the wood before applying the touch up color; that will prevent the stain from bleeding into the wood and spreading around. Also, you can always cut-down bristles to make the brush smaller for fine detail.
Hi Brian, thank you. those are both good points, thanks. i did cut down the brush when i did the gold stripe 😉😀
another fabulous job David, great work
Hi Paul, thank you 😀
Thank you for making these videos I’m always excited to see them. If you can’t find a flat head screw you could always use metric bolt and Machine it into a Panhead flat.
Hi Ripley, thank you. That's a good idea, I will investigate that, thanks 😀
Another great job. 👍👍👍 One product that I have found excellent for cleaning cloth material is StainGo.
I'll get some when I go to Woolies James. The fabric was a bit fragile so I didn't want to rub it and I didn't want to wet it as the glue might fail. I'm on the lookout for some new cloth, thanks for the tip James 👍😀
Oh, and the reminder that was playing on local radio for COVID-19, was cute. Good use of the tune from Sound of Music.
Hi Phillip, I stole the tune from RUclips, the link is in the description, it is very well done 🙂
America used to have a similar color but it was called copper tone. My paintings looks horrible I don't have the talent you do. Lovely radio thank you so much for sharing.
Ahh... someone else mentioned that. I've done some pretty ordinary painting myself in the past, cheers 🙄😀
Wow. Sounds great. The cabinet came out really well. I think it's prettier than the original. I was thinking about the damaged area. I saw a guy scrape some wood off the inside of his cabinet creating a fine saw dust; then he mixed it with just a little wood glue to produce a fill for the cracks on the exterior of his radio. I wonder if that sort of ploy is any good on future projects. Excellent video. Much appreciated.
Hi George, yes, that would have worked, particularly as the stain was mixed with the top coat. If it was stain was applied directly to the job the stain wouldn't penetrate the glue. I wasn't keen to play with it and make it worse. It came out pretty good considering, It doesn't stand out unless you go looking for it. Thanks for the comments 😀
Very good Job David.
Thank you ACHF 😀
You turn radio restoration into a museum quality art form.
The museum will have to wait till I'm gone 😄 Thanks Dean 👍🙂
Increíble trabajo. Grandioso. Verlo trabajar me da mucha paz David.
Gracias Oscar 😀
A fantastic achievement yet again. Many thanks for posting and I look forward to seeing your next project.
Thank you tegwyn7 😀
Beautiful job, what a nice sounding receiver, thanks David.
Hi Alan, it sounds great, thanks 😀
You and Shango066 go hand 🤚 in hand 🤚, in a way. I say this, because about a year ago, Shango066 resurrected a NordMende, console style AM/FM radio with record player. All in a real wooden case. All steel record player and turntable. A good thing about it is the AC motor. And quality stuff that really lasts.. Even the rubber idler wheel has lasted 50-60 years. Lighted radio dial glass. Bad sounding record player, because the cartridge is dead after all those years. Resurrectable, YES YOU BET!! Yes, it is a tube type radio 📻. This radio you are working on is a NordMende, but without a record player.. I believe both of these products are built by the same manufacturer. This radio you are working on reminds me of a world band/AM/FM radio 📻 I bought at Radio Shack in 2000. Yours is the better radio. Mine was sturdily built, but yours has value. Mine was only $41.00, new. Yours is the better radio, if they get dropped.
I think I saw that Shango video
Wonderful job, that case is gorgeous! David
Thank you David 👍🙂
The woodwork is the most discouraging part of restoration. However wood is a better media than plastics. Beautiful job!
Hi Cosimo, thank you 😀
The end result is really astonishing...👍👍
Thank you K W 😀😀
Again a lovely Job, I just love your attention to detail, you sometimes put yourself down when you shouldn't, you do wonderful work it's pleasure watching you work thanks for great videos 👍.
Hi VideoMentary Productions. I appreciate what you say, thank you 👍🙂
Absolutely brilliant David! I have a 1960 NordMende Boheme that I must get to next.
Hi Adam, good luck with your Nordmende, watch out for the capistor 😄
Great job
Thanks Antonio 😀
Wow now that's top shelf work on that cabinet your wife better wear sunglasses in the kitchen it's going to shine like
a Diamond in the Sun . Look forward to your next rebuild.
Haha... that's a good safety tip Nick. Thanks 😄
Dave, i know of no better way of starting my day than watching one of your videos. Man this one was surely incredibly satisfying. I was really wondering how you would re-stain the cabinet to keep the beautiful sunburst effect and boy you did you do a good job on it. Wish i could find a matching piece of cloth for you for this one. I'll keep an eye opened. I liked the covid jingle, made me smile for a second. Have a great day and thank's for sharing yet again another fantastic video. Also a big shout out to everyone helping you out with electronics' advises, great cooperation from the community. Have a great day mate.
Thanks SargentRay. Please keep an eye out for some cloth, it needs replacing. Doing the cabinet was a gamble, it could have been the end of the radio if it didn't work. These European radios are a world away from what I'm used to and it was a real struggle to start with, I am very grateful to the folk who offered advice and offered to translate for me. The Covid 19 jingle is well done, the link to the full version is in the description. Cheers! 👍😀
Good job Dave and you know, the slightly tarnished grill adds a modicum of authenticity.
Hi John, maybe, looks pretty awful here. I have some new cloth on the way 🙂
That was just amazing work. I am considering shipping my cabinets to you for that part of the work :)
Thanks for that. A fantastic job, incredibly well presented.
I’m going to mention this video as a reference in my next tube radio restoration, because my cabinet work is my really weak point. Keep safe.
Thank you EOaNbMC. You do a great electronics restore so we are even 😄 Thanks, yes, put a link in, that would be great. Keep safe yourself, cheers 😀