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Stem release not working

ensoWR

By ensoWR
in Watch Repairs Help & Advice

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ensoWR New Member

ensoWR

Posted
Posted

Dear friends,

Very eager to service my Zenith 2572c, but I am stuck with a very silly issue of non-working stem release button.

It appears to be a simple push to release type, but it doesn't release the stem when the pressure is applied.

What could be the possible solutions? Getting to the keyless works would be brilliant, but I can't reach it without removing the bloody stem.

Thank you kindly.

e6fcd60e474d6cc6a08a0abda8bd469a.jpg

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WatchMaker Super WRT Addict

WatchMaker

Posted
Posted (edited)

Sounds like you've already tried the correct approach but humour me and, pull the stem/crown out to its outer (time changing position). Now applying constant moderate pulling pressure on the crown (perhaps with the thumb and third finger of your right hand) depress the stem release button with a suitable tool held in your left hand.

If this doesn't work them remove the movement retaining ring (two screws hold it in place at 12 and just after 6 o'clock positions in your photo) as this will give the movement a little more freedom in case there is unexpected resistance on the stem that is causing an issue; repeat the above.

Still no luck? You've little choice but to remove the barrel bridge so you can get an indication of what's going on underneath it and get a glimpse of the stem release button and keyless works. This is straightforward though. You should already have ensured the mainspring is wound down after which this is just a case of taking off the two wheels atop the bridge (crown and ratchet) and the three screws that hold the bridge in place. Now you can remove the bridge and see what's going on:

image.png.7b9d4c37c8526b33778ae92bd0e5134c.png

Let us know how you get on!

Edited by WatchMaker
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Nucejoe Distinguished Member

Nucejoe

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I take this gorgeous creature to a zenith master with no less than thirty years experience and gladly pay the expenses. You will still have plenty money left to buy a regular watch to work on. This way you got better chance of showing off the gorgeous on the forum and lets enjoy watching it. Rather than asking this:hair: guy to express your regret.

Good luck pal.

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ensoWR New Member

ensoWR

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17 hours ago, WatchMaker said:

Sounds like you've already tried the correct approach but humour me and, pull the stem/crown out to its outer (time changing position). Now applying constant moderate pulling pressure on the crown (perhaps with the thumb and third finger of your right hand) depress the stem release button with a suitable tool held in your left hand.

If this doesn't work them remove the movement retaining ring (two screws hold it in place at 12 and just after 6 o'clock positions in your photo) as this will give the movement a little more freedom in case there is unexpected resistance on the stem that is causing an issue; repeat the above.

Still no luck? You've little choice but to remove the barrel bridge so you can get an indication of what's going on underneath it and get a glimpse of the stem release button and keyless works. This is straightforward though. You should already have ensured the mainspring is wound down after which this is just a case of taking off the two wheels atop the bridge (crown and ratchet) and the three screws that hold the bridge in place. Now you can remove the bridge and see what's going on:

image.png.7b9d4c37c8526b33778ae92bd0e5134c.png

Let us know how you get on!

Appreciate the detailed and valuable advice, Sir. 

In the end, after taking off the barrel bridge I found the stem release mechanism to be damaged. Managed to reach it at the side of the stem and the stem/crown were released.

A pleasure to resolve the issue, but the search for the part begins.

 

Thank you for all who tuned in!

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ensoWR New Member

ensoWR

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14 hours ago, Nucejoe said:

I take this gorgeous creature to a zenith master with no less than thirty years experience and gladly pay the expenses. You will still have plenty money left to buy a regular watch to work on. This way you got better chance of showing off the gorgeous on the forum and lets enjoy watching it. Rather than asking this:hair: guy to express your regret.

Good luck pal.

I didn't start this hobby to give up on a challenge, although I am sure I will pay a dear price some day. Thanks for advice.

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