Disassembling a gent's brace

[Robert Rozaieski]

I just got a gent's brace, which I've wanted to pick up for awhile, with wood that is in real good shape. I would like to disassemble the brace to clean up the rust on the metal but I don't want to do any damage to the wood parts since they are in such good shape. I know how to get the ball off since that is in 2 pieces, but can't figure out how to take the top handle off. Anyone ever taken one of these apart that can offer some advise? Much appreciated!

Bob