Watch Makers Tools

[sabouttime]

Curious if anybody knows the best way to gather a good set of tools that I can begin with besides my Amazon watchmakers kit? I also have a press tool.

 

[watchweasol]

Hi the tools that you have already will serve you well enough while in the beginning stages but as to inprive you will feel the need for better tools and a more varied collection, This is where the problem starts. Always buy the best you can afford, Domont tweezers, Idealtek but get good ones, screwdrivers, sets of 9 on a stand but again buy the best you can afford Swiss AF brand or french but most need dressing , pliers again the same thing but add them as required.  I believe that if you use the search box at the top right of the home screen Mark did  a video on tools.

[Lc130]

I'm also a beginner and bought good tools (non-chinese) from Esslinger here in the US.  AF brand screw drivers, dumont tweezers, pinion puller and movement holder should be enough for starters.

Mike at myretrowatches.com is also in the learning phase and has a tool link here (he gets a small commission) https://myretrowatches.com/tool-sale-links/

It appears that only Bergeon makes mainspring winders now (others can correct me if I'm wrong) and they're very expensive.    While there are used winders on ebay, the ones I've seen for sale are very old. I've now bought three "sets" and have only a few individual winders that will work.  Many have the hooks that grasp the spring hole sheared off making them useless.  One book I have states that a beginner should leave the spring alone.

Also, get a real ultrasconic cleaner from ebay.  Not the $20 jewelry kind.  It makes a difference. I bought an L&R PC3 for $113.

Edited April 29, 2020 by Lc130