Watch Repair
This is the the normal sequence of events in a watch repair.
- Complete dismantling of movement and inspection of all parts
- Ultrasonic cleaning
- Reassembly and lubrication
- Regulation by me aided by diagnostic electronic timing equipment.
- Cases cleaned and buffed by hand
I completely disassemble each watch movement before ultrasonic cleaning. Common sense dictates that a partially dismantled movement may easily trap dirt and old lubricants. Further, the parts cannot be inspected and it indicates the repairer is more concerned about saving time than doing the best job possible on your watch. If I need to save time, I'll do that at the grocery store, not while I'm repairing your timepiece.
The cleaning machine I use is a Watchmaster model WT ultrasonic which has established itself over the years as a solid and very effective watch cleaning machine. This machine has the capacity to clean six wrist watch movements at a time or one pocket watch movement.
After any necessary repairs have been made to the watch parts or replacements for them are ready, it is time to reassemble the movement. Here again it should be noted that this is not the place to save time. Each gear train component is checked as it is assembled for correctness of clearances and endshakes. High quality synthetic oils are applied in the appropriate amounts.
The finished movement is cased and then regulated with the aid of the Vibograf B200 timing machine. As a matter of routine, the watches are also bench timed in various positions.