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RR pocket watch serviced

RedVitus
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RedVitus Member

RedVitus

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I took apart and cleaned an Elgin pocket watch. It was a 1930s 478 model, and a well preserved example. 

Working on this was a nice change after fixing up several smaller watches. I was also delighted to find the regular Bergeon movement holder just fit a 16s.

Servicing went well, just took my time and made certain all the jewels went back in the orientation they came out. No hidden damage either, except, like many PW I come across, the crystal popped out and looked so thin that I felt it warranted replacement.

Watch gave odd timegrapher readings at first, when the amplitude was over 270 made a zigzag pattern. I removed the balance and recleaned but din't think dirt was the issue. Then I set the stud further in the balance cock and that seemed to do the trick. My guess is the overcoil was sometimes in contact with the coil before. Good timegraph readings now and in all I'm pleased with the results.

 

452666C9-8B7D-4827-A2A1-F8461B506EBC.jpeg

BFABE694-2922-4CBA-BFBD-AE0DFC8EABE4.jpeg

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JohnR725 Distinguished Member

JohnR725

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11 minutes ago, RedVitus said:

Watch gave odd timegrapher readings at first, when the amplitude was over 270 made a zigzag pattern. I removed the balance and recleaned but din't think dirt was the issue.

always nice if you get pictures of these things even if you did solve the problem just so others might have a clue if they see something similar.

 

12 minutes ago, RedVitus said:

My guess is the overcoil was sometimes in contact with the coil before.

yes the problem of non-flat hairsprings. they take up a lot of space under their which means there is a chance of touching the balance arms or the balance bridge. Definitely more challenge then a flat hairspring because is a lot of places where it can touch.

then nice-looking watch congratulations on getting it running again.

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RedVitus

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14 hours ago, JohnR725 said:

always nice if you get pictures of these things even if you did solve the problem just so others might have a clue if they see something similar.

Didn't get a photo but did take notes during the process and drew the signal. Will be mindful in the future to take a few shots.

Prior to fixing the problem, the changes in direction happened in every position except DU. The signal would be straight and stable for 5-20 seconds then abruptly change direction.

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