Lubrication of a 1940 Rolex NA 630 Autowinding mechanism

[Randy55]

New watch for me. Never dealt with this Cal. 630 before, and I have no Rolex reference sheets that cover lubrication of this caliber or the 620

Wondering what oils to use on the winding - wheel pivots ( 1142 ),and the small upper and lower ratchet wheels and star wheels ( 1415+1416) - ( 1483+1483/1.

From what I've read...Epilame isn't used in the older Rolex models

Any help appreciated- photo of parts listing attached !

Randy

[JohnR725]

As you're finding it really servicing technical sheets with complete lubrication for vintage watches for the most part doesn't even exist. Then even if it did exist it would give you lubrication choices that probably don't exist today.

[Randy55]

Thanks John..I figured as much. I was thinking I could use the older info to get an idea as to what newer oils/ greases would have replaced them over time. I know I'm going to get Rolex branded info..just looking for a starting point.

Randy

[JohnR725]

The problem in the old days was that they assumed you knew how to service a watch. For instance I have a nice book printed in 1956 on automatic watches. Basically is a reproduction of a whole variety of service information so here's an example of a Rolex. I'm showing the starting page so you can see which Rolex it is and the last page where it covers the lubrication.

[Randy55]

Thanks John.

Yes...I understand. I will need to pick my oils/ greases based on a number of criteria, Metal to metal..low friction vs high friction, etc. Similar to what I've had to do with older GP and Omega winding mechanisms, etc.

Was just hoping I guess, that someone had already "been there " and had some experience in what works best when working with this particular series.

I appreciate the discussion  !

All the best,

Randy

[JohnR725]

7 hours ago, Randy55 said:

Was just hoping I guess, that someone had already "been there " and had some experience in what works best when working with this particular series.

In addition to these requirements you would also hope that if someone did one or perhaps help someone else do one in February 2013 that they memorized everything they did? Well if hoping my memories that good well you're out of luck. All we get is a folder of things and I'm going to snip out the thumbnails so if there's anything else you what let me know

Then I don't know if you have the parts lists I will attach those.

So the unhelpful answer would've been I would've service the watch helping that person way back when based on whatever lubrication's I was using at the time. I've now become a big fan of 9504 for the grease so that's the grease said be using on everything now. Then as whatever choice you like for the oils for the rest the gear train balance escapement etc.

Then if I had any other notes or anything on lubrication or anything at all it should be in this folder and it's not.

 

 

 

[Randy55]

John,

I guess it was "wishful thinking".

Thank you for the grease recommendation. I was considering that one myself. I'm comfortable with my choices for the great train, escapement, etc. The winding mechanism was where I had some concern.

Thank you very much for the files, and for taking time to send them to me.

 

Best regards,

Randy