Pocket Watch Keeps Stopping

[Ewan32]

Hi folks,

 

I bought a generic Swiss movement pocket watch (no makers name  - just the "15 jewels" on the movement).

 

The seconds hand was missing when I bought it but other than that it seems to be running fine.

 

I found a seconds hand which seems to fit the fourth wheel but since fitting it the watch intermittently stops dead every hour or so with the seconds hand also in various positions.

 

I thought I had pressed to too hard causing it to stick on the dial so I removed it and refitted it - seems to have improved but the watch still keeps stopping every 4 or 5 hours.

 

If I remove the seconds hand completely the watch runs fine (and accurately) until it stops due to it needs winding.

 

Any ideas please ?

Edited December 14, 2014 by Ewan32

[Geo]

Could it be that the outside diameter of the tube on the second hand is too large in diameter and rubbing on edge of the aperture in the dial?

[Ewan32]

That could be a possibility - I never thought of that !

 

Thanks for the suggestion, I'll remove the hand and look for a thinner one.

 

Or perhaps, could I enlarge the aperture with a round file used lightly perhaps ?

Edited December 14, 2014 by Ewan32

[Geo]

Or perhaps, could I enlarge the aperture with a round file used lightly perhaps ?

You would need a small round diamond file if it in an enamel finish on the dial. Also be very careful, enamel dials crack very easily. Edited December 14, 2014 by Geo

[Ewan32]

Thanks for the advice Geo.

 

I'll be sure to be very careful and post outcome here when I've managed to find some time in between decorating Christmas trees etc !

[Ewan32]

Hi Geo,

 

Well, the watch has been running without interruption now since 19th December so I think we can safely say its fixed !

 

I (think) it was a combination of the fourth wheel pivot being slight off centre in effect causing the seconds hand to move in an ellipse and I also gave the dial aperture a light smoothing with a diamond file just to be on the safe side.

 

Thanks again for the great advise Geo.

 

Merry Christmas all !

[Geo]

Great stuff Ewan, that's what the forum is all about.