Refinishing the metal lock on my briefcase - possible?

[nate10184]

I have an vintage briefcase with a great patina that I bought on ebay and had shipped to the US from england. I spent a long time bringing back the leather and at this point think it looks pretty nice.

The one thing that bothers me is the metal lock, it looks to me like some kind of plated brass. It is gold in color but there are silver spots where the plating has worn away. These spots must be exposed because they retarnish rapidly after being cleaned.

Is there anyone out there who could refinish just the metal peice? I don't mind having the whole thing silver but the way it is now just doesn't look nice. I know nothing about metals so I'm clueless on how to fix it or even who to take it to.

 

[haganah]

Those guys seem to do everything. Just go into any of the luggage/shoe repair places and ask them what they can do. I lost the hinge on a briefcase handle once and it didn't look standard but my guy somehow replaced it for 7 beans. It doesn't hurt to ask. Especially for something you like that much. Good luck.

 

[alliswell]

Go here:

Artbag in NYC

 

[Tomasso]

Originally Posted by nate10184

I have an vintage briefcase.
The maker, if still in business, may be able to replace or refurbish the hardware; if not, any reputable luggage repair shop should be up to the task. Make sure that the work doesn't begin without your approval of the hardware.

 

[nate10184]

Thanks for the responses guys. I think I'll take it somewhere to get an opinion.

Originally Posted by Tomasso

The maker, if still in business, may be able to replace or refurbish the hardware; if not, any reputable luggage repair shop should be up to the task. Make sure that the work doesn't begin without your approval of the hardware.

The maker is Merit of London. I found no mention of them anywhere on google. I estimate it was made sometime between 1930 and 1960 so I don't think having it replaced by them is possible. Its pretty rustic but I think with a nice polished lock it could pass for "vintage cool" and not just "old and shabby".