Leaderboard

It can be run on a MAC using Crossover or WINE. However, you may run into audio latency inconsistency issues making it impossible to calibrate the software accurately.

Silver solder would be stronger, but lead solder will do a fine job. First, find a piece of brass suitable for the job. You need to file a slot into the barrel and solder it in. You can use a spirit lamp and some flux. You will need to clean the piece of brass to use, use a emery stick to clean it off. With various needle files, file the brass into the shape of the tooth making sure you have the correct height, thickness and shape. You will need burr files or some people call them rotary files to remove the inside waste so the spring can sit proper. Test it before you put the movement back together, you might have to make slight adjustments. If you have never done this type of work before you might like to practice on a clock wheel, which is bigger to get the idea on what to do, if you make a mistake it does not matter.

I did make a video making a balance staff. "jdrichard01" on YouTube. ....and no bow:) Sent from my GT-N5110 using Tapatalk

I know you used to be able to buy generic balance staffs that you turn down to size. Would be interesting to know how you make them. I'm still waiting to see someone make one on youtube using a bow.

Hmmm. Maybe you could try silver solder. It’s harder than lead but takes a torch to melt it. Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk Pro

Without all the accessories, I'm not sure if you will be able to use it as intended at all. You also mentioned replacing a balance pivot with it, unless the balance is for a clock or something on the larger side, you'd be better off replacing the staff. This tool is meant more for larger pivots, such as for the train wheels and the like, a balance pivot is simply too small.

I would go with 9010 if that’s what you have, but the BHI recommends 941 or 9415 if you have that instead http://www.nawcc-index.net/Articles/BTI-The_Practical_Lubrication_of_Clocks_and_Watches.pdf

Very interesting video, thanks for posting it! Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Slightly different lathe, turret style, but the principle is the same.

For me I'm staying as a hobbyist, I would love to get a BHI accreditation for watch servicing (up to say day date complications) I would proceed at a late date to more complicated movements. But for me it's the cost of the even the basic courses, it just starts becoming too costly, which is a shame for the industry as I know there must be lots of people in the same boat as me, all very passionate and basically self taught and pretty damn competent, but cost is phrohibiting us actually proceeding into the industry and keeping it alive. My local smith who has two other smiths working with him has a 6 month waiting list for work to cross his benches!!!!!! The works out there but I'm afraid I'll have to stick to my hobby room and tinkering only. Sad but the industry is shooting itself in its foot by out pricing some very talented people. Just my two penneth worth.