Helbros Alarm Watch running issue

[DForbesVA]

Hi all,

I'm a complete novice watch guy who has recently gotten into vintage watches. In general I'm a pretty handy guy who can fix anything, but watches are a new thing for me. 

My question is where to start on this vintage Helbros Alarm watch. It looks almost new, as if it was never worn. And that could be because of the running problem. When I first received the watch it was running slowly, and would stop when you moved into the vertical position. It would run fairly well in the horizontal position (face up or down) Now, after winding and running it three or four times, it's keeping pretty accurate time in the horizontal position, but will still slow or stop in the vertical position. From doing a bit of research, there could be a problem with the balance pivots? In any case, what is the recommended course of action starting from simplest to hardest? Should I first disassemble it, look for issues, and if I don't find any, clean and oil it? Then see how it runs? Are there any particular things I should look for, like a broken jewel in the balance? I've provided pictures and a video (if it lets me upload that). Any advice would be appreciated. 

 

 

[RichardHarris123]

You have the right idea, disassemble, look for issues, reassemble and lubricate. I sounds like the balance staff is broken but we won't know for sure until it is disassembled. 

I strongly advise that you start on a more basic watch though, one without complications ie no alarm, date etc.

[DForbesVA]

Richard, thank you for your response. That's very good advice. I have a vintage Gloriosa watch that I am going to use to practice. It has no date, subdial, or other complications.