Watermark Fluid...opinions Wanted

No can do KGV......she wasn't as fortunate as you.....
but I'll pass your message along :)

Without my black tea cup plate the
lighter fluid would also not show me my watermarks.

Hi! builderr.
Hope I did not get to personal.
Fully sorry if I have.

Always Happy Stamping! John

thanks kgv...it's ok

I had forgotten about this con on lighter fluid. I have not had any issue as such but there are certain store brands of detector fluid that make the watermark stand out better.

Have found 5 early Australia imperfs in a recent auction win.
First time I have ever had Australia colonies or state stamps.
The paper seems very thick and I could not see a
watermark except by using lighter fluid and the
watermarks were very clear. It was a real joy in
stamp collecting to see a star watermark and the
double lined numeral watermark and so on.
There is something very special about watermark detection.
It is so nice to be able do this.
It opens up a very interesting part of our hobby.
And a total have to so as to ID some stamps.

Can some one refer me to the reference that Uni-Safe fluid is non toxic for the user? I know it says safe for stamps, gum, paper. etc., but I thought all of the watermark chemicals had toxicity issues.

Jim

Desertgem, I am looking at a bottle of Uni Safe fluid. It states on the front of the bottle:" Uni Safe Super Safe Watermark fluid. Contains Trichlorotrifluoroethane". On the side of the bottle it states:" ... Non-toxic, non-inflammable, quick drying... " It also states:"Caution Do not take internally. Avoid contact with eyes. If chemical contacts eyes flood with water. Consult physician if irritation persists. Keep out of reach of children"
Regards
Mike

Thanks Mike. Many years ago, I used it for cleaning electronic components and contacts. I see it is classified as CFC-113. I would say it is less toxic than lighter fluid and hexane, but I guess I differ from the manufacturer a little on the use of the word "non-toxic" as used with such cautions given :) Generally I figure if it said non-toxic, kids could safely use it.

I still use the old toxic stuff myself, so I can't complain too much.

Jim

Desertgem You have been resurrected...now I believe !!

Scanning Watermarks by Peter G, Aitken
http://www.pgacon.com/tips_on_scann...20Watermarks

with pictures!!

The page also has lots of info on scanning tips beyond just watermarks.

The thread asked for opinions, so without any intent to offend, my bones ache when I read collectors are using artificial agents to detect watermarks. When I was younger Philatelic seniors would have given me a swift kick, where it hurts, for such reckless irresponsibility.

Puzzler, that is a great link for scanning watermarks. Thanks for posting.

Finches, please elaborate on what you advocate for watermark detection.
Regards
Mike

Hi Phil, I always made time to come back and read, but little time for posting. I just have too many "hobbies" and too many forums, but during the long hot summers, I spend more time inside. Hope to contribute more.

Jim