Freshening antique brass aero hardware

[sonofmt]

I have an Aero half belt I ordered years ago with antique brass hardware.

Odd question, but is there a simple way of making the antique brass less ‘antique’ and more polished brass?

 

[zebedee]

Brasso will do it. Don't get it on the leather.

 

[sonofmt]

Thanks. I’ll check that out.

 

[raf]

I suppose it kinda depends on how the items (presumably solid brass) were finished. If painted, remove the paint either by chem stripper or by using fairly fine sandpaper followed by fine steel wool if a polished finish is desired.

If chemically darkened (an oxide finish), then go right to fine sandpaper /steel wool route.

Brasso is a liquid polish which will clean naked brass, but to get a mirror polish, the metal surface needs to be buffed and polished first. Brasso can be used to maintain the brass thereafter.

In any event, protect the leather from dust and any contaminants. Plastic bag secured with plastic electrical tape is OK.