site by Stefan Hepner

 

 

Antique metalwork is often exquisite and possesses details overlooked by modern design and fabrication. Olek Lejbzon & Co. replicates components where needed to preserve the appearance and functionality of old architectural metalwork, including antique half-lapped lockets, box locks, plumbing fixtures, and cast iron trim. We work in a variety of metals; cast iron, forged iron, brass or bronze, nickel, silver, pot metal, zinc, copper, tin & lead, gold , aluminum, and steel.
Construction techniques involve inert gas, arc or spot welding, lost wax and sand casting, machining by lathe or milling, tapping, forging, and chasing, among others.
Olek's craftsmen are proud to perform work that is commonly thought impossible, such as welding of delicate pot metal.
 

Restoration of all of Grand Central Terminal's gates involved casting pickets, rosettes, and 100 year-old lock mechanism components. The overhead tracks required new pin and bushing to bring these gates to a functional state. We also fabricated new gates to replace irreparably damaged units.
 

These copper-clad steel cabinets at Grand Central Terminal, NYC were covered with so much paint that hinges held by paper clips appeared good. Reconfiguration was necessary to accommodate new LCD sign boards, as well as replication & replacement of all components. The cast iron cornice with as many as five corners fit around multiple pilasters was most challenging.

 

Hardware replication or restoration involving centrifugal lost-wax casting, sand casting, hand forging, welding, or gilding is routine for us. We commonly cast in brass, bronze, nickel, silver, iron and gold. Brass, nickel, and gold plating are also available. We can also custom design hardware for your needs. Electroplating in various metals is also available.
 

Forged iron sconces at the University Club required socket replacement, rewiring, and refinishing.