How to clean old brass scales safely?

Dusting usually works. A soft dry cloth removes surface dirt without scratching the metal. If you must clean them, use a gentle wax rather than liquid polish. Abrasives wear away the finish and risk any engraved markings on the pans.

I found a large wooden based scale in my granddad's shed and the brass pans are green, should I try polishing them up or leave them alone?

Leave the green verdigris alone if it sits in the deep recesses. It shows age and collectors often prefer an untouched surface. Wipe the flat parts gently with a dry cloth. Excessive polishing leaves the brass looking modern, which alters the historic character of the piece. Wood bases just need a quick wipe. A little clear beeswax feeds dry timber well.

What does class b mean on scales?

That stamp indicates a trading standard. Inspectors checked retail balances to ensure accurate commercial use. Class B meant they were legal for basic shop counter trades.

The central needle on my shop balance leans a bit to one side even when the pans are empty, is there a way to fix it?

Check underneath the pans first. Often a piece of dried wax or dirt gets stuck under one side and throws the beam off balance. You might also find a small lead plug under the pan. Makers added these to calibrate the scale. Losing one causes a lean. If the steel knife-edge has worn flat on one side, it needs professional attention. A specialist can re-profile the pivot so it rocks freely again.

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Antique Scales from the 19th Century

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Antique scales are precision weighing instruments usually consisting of a balanced beam, suspended pans, or spring mechanisms used by merchants to measure goods against standard weights.