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Universal Geneve - Loose Stem?

DPhillip

By DPhillip
in Watch Repairs Help & Advice

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DPhillip Member

DPhillip

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Hello,

 

My father gave me this Universal Geneve dress watch he found online recently.  We think it dates from the 1940s and is very similar to the one his mother gave him in about 1943, when he was 14 - and which he still wears.

According to him, the stem falls out easily.  So far, this has not happened since I have had it.  I can pull the stem out to adjust the time just fine, and the watch winds easily.

I removed the back to photograph the movement, which is a Universal Geneve 263.  My father's  though was that possibly the set screw is loose - by this he meant the screw that would ensure the stem does not pull free while pulling it to the set position.  There is a screw nearby and it is very small. My watch kit does not have a screwdriver small enough to fit it.

My understanding is that before detent buttons, screws were used for this purpose.  Do you think that is the case here?

I am not sure if the crown should be fitting close to the watch case when pressed down after setting the hands.  Right now I can't get it any closer; it stands a little proud - not sure if that is normal and correct.

Also I am not sure if I should have this looked at by a pro or if I can take a crack at it if I can obtain the necessary sized screwdriver.

A related question - the watch back was a little loose and I was able to unscrew it easily using my fingers and my case wrench.  When reinstalling it, should I seal it with silicon or anything?

I included a picture of the inside of the case back - I love how it has been even though it is very plain on the outside.

I can feel myself really getting hooked on these vintage watches - just winding this simple-looking watch has this incredible tactile feel.

Thanks for any advice!

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nickelsilver Distinguished Member

nickelsilver

Posted
Posted

Could be the detent screw is loose. Could be the pin on the detent is damaged. Could be wear in the plate/bridge allowing the stem to wriggle out. Could be a damaged stem. All but the wear are repairable by replacing parts or tightening the screw. For worn plate/bridge an oversized stem is usually made.

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DPhillip Member

DPhillip

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Thanks Nickelsilver, I will check out the set screw first.  Hopefully I can find a screwdriver that will fit it since it is smaller than the tool I have.  From pictures I have seen of other Universal Geneve watches of this era, it looks like the crown is as far in as it will go.  In other words, it stands about 1mm or so from the case.

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