Picked up on a whim: Arnex 17 jewel pocket watch with Unitas 6498 movement

ManSkirtBrew · May 9, 2024

Walked by my local jeweler today and asked if I could dig around in his old watch case, and picked this guy up (along with a cool vintage compass and a Seiko kinetic5M62). My girlfriend's son asked if he could borrow one of my pocket watches for prom, so I thought if I can get this guy running it'd be a nice prom gift.

Non-running. Felt like the balance was overbanked, but it turns out the train was jammed solid. Looks like it was just dried lubricant gluing the 3rd wheel in place, because it's clean as a whistle otherwise. Parts are in the ultrasonic right now.

mbwatch · May 9, 2024

Nice! I have lately been buying up a handful of Arnex pieces on eBay because it is often obvious even without photos that they house a fine Unitas 6498. And many of the 1970s cases and "old timey themed" dials are irredeemably ugly so they are a cheap way to pickup great movements to power custom wristwatch projects.

All of the ones I've bought were in like new condition, barely used assuming they were bought as graduation or retirement gifts in the 70s or 80s.

Razz · May 10, 2024

My Arnex pocket watch dial is toast but has a very nice Peseux 7050 in it. I have the same thought to one day build a wristwatch with this movement!

mbwatch · May 10, 2024

7 hours ago, Razz said:

My Arnex pocket watch dial is toast but has a very nice Peseux 7050 in it. I have the same thought to one day build a wristwatch with this movement!

Definitely have a look around ebay for Arnex pocket watches. You'll find many that are still in their gift boxes, essentially new old stock Swiss movements for very low prices.

ManSkirtBrew · May 29, 2024

Finally got the mainspring in and I am pleased with these results.

The case came up pretty nicely, too. Especially that inside cover. I'm assuming it's highly polished stainless, but it's so shiny if I didn't know better I'd say it's silver.

I found an antique silver fob to complete the look.