Caring for your sundial

Brass Spot-on Sundials are hand cast out of solid brass, and designed to be used outdoors for years to come. Over time the brass will turn into a dull brown finish.

​If you wish to clean your sundial, gently wash with a soft cloth and soapy water, ensuring not to use any abrasives.

​The Spot-on Sundial requires very little maintenance. It will weather naturally; the shine of the brass will be replaced by the matt surface of an oxide layer, which will protect the metal of the sundial, and will also give greater contrast to show the shadow of the gnomon, and the line of light at solar noon.

​We recommend that you should leave the dial plate to weather naturally in this way, so that the markings do not get worn away, and to read the Spot-on Sundial more easily.

​You can leave the other visible parts to weather in this way too. If, however you feel you would like to polish some of the sundial, please feel free to polish the two sides of the gnomon and the baseplate if you wish.

​If you have trouble with bird droppings etc, we recommend you use a soft cloth and hot water. Do not use any scouring powder or abrasive. If necessary, use a small amount of liquid detergent, but it is best to use hot water alone.

​If there are marks on the dial from handling or manufacturing residue, you can also use one of the following methods to clean:

1. Lighter fluid - gently rub some lighter fluid with a soft cloth over the finish.

2. Lemon juice - gently rub some lemon juice over the finish with a soft damp cloth.

​Generally, it is best to let nature clean the dial and take its course, cleaning by rainwater and ageing normally, which is the best course to ensure many years of use.