Re-Assembling An Old Cartier ?

[John@OWDC]

Putting new lenses in this old frame.

It was nasty enough that I cannot tell if the eye wires were tacked in with anything or just pressure fit alone.

I am assuming pressure alone (I sure hope so) but wanted to post and see if anyone has done one of these?

Also - any tips on getting things "shined up" even a little bit?

Thanks

[Chad Sobodash]

Putting new lenses in this old frame.

It was nasty enough that I cannot tell if the eye wires were tacked in with anything or just pressure fit alone.

I am assuming pressure alone (I sure hope so) but wanted to post and see if anyone has done one of these?

Also - any tips on getting things "shined up" even a little bit?

Thanks

If that is indeed a Cartier frame, it's at least 15 years old. Where's the temples? My guess would be pressure, since Cartier hasn't done an adhesive insert ever, to my knowledge. For cleaning it up, your best bet is to use increasing grits of micro mesh buffing pads. If the scratches are especially deep, lightly hit it with 000 and 0000 steel wool to get those out first. When you start using the micro mesh, use lots of running water. Once you have it polished as you want it (the patient may want satin, off-gloss, or high-gloss), rub it with a little vaseline and hit it one last time with the grit you decided to stop at. This will bring out the luster and true finish of whatever finishing you chose.

DO NOT buff the metal in this way, because it can strip the plating. If you're going to clean the metal, use a polishing cloth safe for silver and gold, like this one.

[John@OWDC]

Thanks!

Yes, she is a pretty old lady and said, "I have had these forever..."

Temples are off so I could clean them and tighten the hinge screws which are actually hidden behind the chassis ends.

It is the temple that says, "Cartier".

Think I'll leave the buffing alone, they look much better just being cleaned up with dish soap, water and a toothbrush...

If really Cartier I suppose the eye wires could be gold or even real gold plate?

Gotta make the patients happy!

[Chad Sobodash]

Thanks!

Yes, she is a pretty old lady and said, "I have had these forever..."

Temples are off so I could clean them and tighten the hinge screws which are actually hidden behind the chassis ends.

It is the temple that says, "Cartier".

Think I'll leave the buffing alone, they look much better just being cleaned up with dish soap, water and a toothbrush...

If really Cartier I suppose the eye wires could be gold or even real gold plate?

Gotta make the patients happy!

Just curious, regarding the temples.

Gold plated eyewire, definitely not solid. I can damn near guarantee it.

[bourdie1979]

where is cartier from? Luxottica? need a screw

[rbaker]

Pretty sure Hilco will have an appropriate screw. But, you can go here:

Boutique Cartier Vancouver 456 Howe Street

BC V6C 2X1
British Columbia
Vancouver Canada
Tel: +1 604 683 6878
Fax: +1 604 683 6063

Send an email

OPENING HOURS
Monday - Saturday 10:00 am - 6:00 pm