Mystery tool.

[Plato]

Anyone have an idea what this tool is? It came in a batch with some hairspring tools I recently bought so I'm hoping it's something similar. The grid in the background is 1cm squares,  for scale. The "MA" is stamped on some of the other tools so I'm assuming they're the initials of a one time owner.

[watchweasol]

Looks like another type of balance stake but to fit several different sizes. When working on the spring you pop the balance in to the slot ( which ever size is best) and it holds the balance safely

[Plato]

I was thinking in could have something to do with the pallet fork and guard pin, but, it wouldn't work with the arbor attached. 

[watchweasol]

Hi  The normal ones are round with a series of holes round the perimeter and have a "V" slot on them to accommodate the balance and roller. Yours I think is just another variation.

[Plato]

42 minutes ago, watchweasol said:

Hi  The normal ones are round with a series of holes round the perimeter and have a "V" slot on them to accommodate the balance and roller. Yours I think is just another variation.

I've got one of those (made by Slick but sold by Bergeon /Horotec)... I've understand now, the square part is for the impulse jewel so you can work on the other side of the balance staff. Cheers @watchweasol! 

[jdm]

13 minutes ago, Plato said:

I've got one of those (made by Slick but sold by Bergeon /Horotec)

Who is Slick?

[Plato]

Not too sure but the name 'Slick' is on a couple of tools I've bought new from Bergeon or Horotec. 

This one: 

https://www.cousinsuk.com/product/balance-hairspring-holding-tool

is sold by Bergeon but stamped Slick (underneath). Will upload a photo tomorrow. 

[Plato]

18 hours ago, jdm said:

Who is Slick?

Can't find out much about this company online.

[nickelsilver]

https://www.outils-slick.ch/

 

Don't seem to have English as an option on the site, but they make lots of different tools.

 

I have a couple of blocks exactly like in the OP, not really sure if it has a specific purpose, but they're handy!

[Plato]

5 minutes ago, nickelsilver said:

I have a couple of blocks exactly like in the OP, not really sure if it has a specific purpose, but they're handy!

That was me too, cheers, definitely keeping it for future use.

What about these 3 tweezers? The one on the left is unbranded, The furthest one away is by WIT (stamped E) and the nearest by Bergeon (slightly bent out of shape and stamped 3). The second picture is the one on the left upside down.

[nickelsilver]

Wow, I can only guess that the lower right one might be for holding pallet forks but those usually have a sliding clamp. The one with the pin probably for pressing out a pin; but all look quite specialized, likely for production. Never seen any exactly the same and I have hundreds of tweezers.