1959 Rockola Tempo1 1475 Grille Material

[decimusunum]

I'm in the process of a frame-off complete restoration of a 1959 Rockola Tempo1, Model 1475 (SN# 185002). I have the lower door front assembly torn down now, most parts have been cleaned / blasted / repainted or re-chromed. I'm curious as to what they used for the front grille. It appears to be either chrome plated steel (magnetic) or possibly stainless steel that is a punched and rolled into a sheet to give it some texture. It was very dirty from years of cigarette smoke from a bar, I've cleaned it in my usual cleaning process but it just isn't coming back to a shine. It even seemed like it was coated with something that came off possibly a layer of lacquer or light colored paint. Anyone know the specifics of this grill on how it was made? behind the Rockola V it was very clean and shiny.

May attempt a brass wire wheel to see if i can get it shined up, or may have to have it chrome plated ($$$)...

Thoughts?

[jimk]

While I can't help you with any specifics, if the grille truly is magnetic, and thus can be re-plated/re-chromed, count your blessings! It could be a lot worse....

Why do I say that? Have a look at the 6th picture down (the link is to my blog):

jimsrock-ola1452.blogspot.com/2018/02/new-chrome.html

This grille is aluminum (most definitely NOT magnetic), and once damaged, cannot be re-plated or re-chromed!

See? Your glass is now "half full"!

Regards,

Jim

[tempo1]

all you do is use 0000 steal wool and W/D 40 . I have a 1468 tenpo 1 and i used a vibrator sander with the still wool under it .wow a few times with that method the grill looks nice . no pant or chrome . I am looking for a dome glass for one of my tempos if you can help let me know.