I recently came into possession of a Mermod Freres musical box. It
was purchased for my grandmother when she had scarlet fever and had
to spend many weeks in a darkened room. It was 1900 and she was
5 years old. It is in an oak case and has 6 cylinders 2.5" x 9",
of nickel covered brass(?).
The three cylinders that were in the case are fine. The other three
were stored poorly and have some corrosion on them: two have a little
green in patches and the other has a larger area of black corrosion.
There is some rust starting on the comb. It does, however, play
spectacularly.
It seems like it ought to oiled or something as I am sure it has
received no care or maintenance in at least 40 years. I don't think
it needs a rebuild or anything, but I would like any advice on what
a modestly mechanically inclined owner might be able to do to help it
make it to the next generation.
Many thanks,
Alex Patterson
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