Is this in the right place?  
I collect old hand tools … the original cordless, variable speed, reversible types.  Batteries not included.  I have several Millers Falls braces and hand drills.  

My question today is about a Fray & Pigg brace.  I found one page in an internet search, indicates that i5 was made between 1859 and 1869, based on the trademark stamp.  I want to refinish it … not to museum quality, but a daily driver. It’s in very good condition, except the last owner has sprayed on a shiny coat of lacquer or clear krylon or something.  That will be removed.   
 

On the top of the knob it looks like there might have been a black finish at one time.  Japanning?  Enamel?  Does anyone have any references that would indicate the original finish?   

Hey Ed, welcome to our forums and community, I have The "Fray" Spofford examples of what you have, I love them, I love them more than the traditional brace and bits by Stanley etc. They are completely direct drive, and easy bit change overs in seconds. And yes, I do believe that metal knob should be black.

Here are my braces, I have the 108 and 112 and a 110 not shown. They work beautifully with the Jenning's style bits as shown in my braces.

Mine also have wood handles and knobs. In case you didn't know, the numbering indicates the swing of the handle, so the No.108 has an 8" full swing, the No.112 has a 12" full swing.

 

Here is a link to Jim Bode Tools, he has several for sale just like yours, and they appear to also have remnants of black enamel on the knobs as well.

Seven inch FRAY & PIGG Spofford Brace - 93888

WWW.JIMBODETOOLS.COM

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STANLEY purchased the JOHN S. FRAY Company in 1909, and used the name and the stock for at least another decade. Some of the...

 

I think i saw your pictures in the thread about the … Owl? … bits.  Mine does not have a model number stamped in the shaft, but it does have a number cast into the underside of the top knob, that is supposed to be the swing.
 
It’s amazing that the tool was made between 1859 and 1869, and is still in excellent condition.  But … it is all steel …

 

Ya they are great tools, so basic, and under rated, one of my favorite chair builders Curtis Buchanan uses these for his beautiful chairs he builds, that is where I first saw these types, and emailed him and he gave me some pointers on which ones to purchase and best bits etc.

Here is Curtis