Restoration Projects

The following are in need of repair or restoration. If you have a talent for repairing or restoring vintage apparatus, contact us.

Merv Taylor, ca. 1955
A mechanical mystery in which a solid sheet of glass, securely placed within a wooden cabinet, is visibly pierced by a series of gleaming metal spikes—yet emerges entirely unharmed. A fine example of Taylor’s craftsmanship and flair for precision-made illusions in miniature. A treasure discovered in the extensive collection of Andrew Pinard.
Box measures 4 ⅝ × 4 ⅝ × 5 ½″. Complete with six original spikes (one hallmarked) and glass insert. Finish shows considerable wear with edge chipping and lid warping. Fair condition overall.
Overall wear and damage to wood veneer .

Magic House of Babcock, 1990s.
A finely crafted wooden ladder designed for the classic stage effect in which coins appear from the air and audibly cascade down the rungs. Cleverly gimmicked to facilitate the production sequence. One of only twelve constructed by Babcock. One latch slightly loose; otherwise very good condition. Height 33”.
Improve overall stability by repairing latch that secures top section to bottom.

Silent Mora (Louis McCord), ca. 1953
A classic sympathetic-cord illusion in which the cords running through each bamboo stick mysteriously respond to one another—when one end is pulled, the other retracts, despite no visible connection. Hand-made and hand-painted by Louis McCord (Silent Mora), signed and dated in his hand (Sept. 21, 1953), and inscribed with the proverbs: “More men are drowned in the bowl than in the sea,” and “A man with a sour face should not open a shop.” Length 12 inches. Complete with original box, instructions, and supply of flaked graphite.
In need or restringing and bead replacement.

Jewel Chest of Ching See. Loyd, ca. 1940s
A solid block is locked within an open wooden frame by a brass bar, yet—under the audience’s gaze—it vanishes, only to reappear inside a hat placed atop the chest. A hallmark Loyd creation from the 1940s, combining clever mechanics with elegant presentation. Hallmarked
Roller in need of repair

A striking mechanical marvel in which two selected cards visibly materialize back-to-back between glass plates housed in a wooden frame. At the instant of appearance, a flash bulb within the apparatus ignites—dramatically illuminating the moment of magic. The frame may even be held by a spectator as the effect occurs. Complete with original wooden packing case, printed instructions, and additional parts. One of approximately fifty manufactured. Very good condition. From the incredible collection of Andrew Pinard.
Restore flash mechanism and battery compartment to full working order.

Owen Supreme Magic Sliding Clock Box. Alhambra Model, ca. 1960
A true gem from the golden era of stage magic—this Owen Supreme Sliding Clock Box, also known as the Alhambra model, dates back to circa 1960 and showcases the master craftsmanship of Owen Magic. This beautiful four-door mahogany cabinet isn’t just a prop—it’s a piece of working art, and one of the rarest Owen items you’ll ever come across.
Repair needed to metal frame around clock.