Replacement candlestick receiver
 

I am going to be replacing the receiver on my candlestick phone as its got a few dents in it. I have seen a brand new replacement one, however, it is very shiny. Is there a way of a) ageing it to lose the shininess or b) painting it black to resemble the original ebonite as I hear brass isn't the best metal for painting?

Re: Replacement candlestick receiver
 

Selenium dioxide should do it, but you'll need to swab it on gently & evenly with cotton wool.

It's used for filling/ blackening engravings on brass & aluminium.
One trade name is "Aloxide".

David.

Re: Replacement candlestick receiver
 

I have managed to get hold of an original one which is in very good nick.

Re: Replacement candlestick receiver
 

All in all that looks a better way forward (and an excellent find in that condition). I notice that the brass receiver on the right not only has an incorrect lead but also the wrong earcap (both presumably from a bakelite handset).

Re: Replacement candlestick receiver
 

When I took the phone apart it looks like the receiver cord has broken at some point and they have basically just lashed the line cord into the bell receiver. Not functional so must have been done so it at least looks like it's got a cord attached. I've put a new cord on as well as per the picture.