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Gear Train Recoil

omgiv

By omgiv
in Watch Repairs Help & Advice

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omgiv WRT Addict

omgiv

Posted
Posted

Hi Guys,

 

I'm back with another question that has always been on my mind and am hoping to put it to rest.  I have read on the internet (which doesn't always make it true) that having a little recoil of the gear train when slightly turning the crown (without the pallet for or balance installed) is a good sign of clean pivots and a free train.  By recoil, I mean that you can see the escape wheel spin in the opposite direction at the very end as the mainspring draws back in.  My question is if this is the truth.  I have some watches that will do it and some that won't but all perform well.  Thanks and let me know if I am not being clear in my question.   

Geo Distinguished Member

Geo

Posted
Posted

This is not something that I have heard mentioned before, but I certainly have witnessed the effect that you describe when working on movements. Thinking about it logically as an engineer, I would have to agree with the said theory. I can well imagine that dirt or dry pinions would definitely have a retarding effect and prevent any rebound of the gear train occurring.

Just my tuppence worth!

autowind Distinguished Member

autowind

Posted
Posted

From what I have read and from experience I would say it essential that the train reverses a small amount after putting a turn or two on the mainspring.  It is a very good indication that the wheel train is running freely,  any power losses in the train are robbing the balance wheel of max. power.  I would even say that if you do not get a reversal,  find out why!

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Mark Distinguished Member

Mark

Posted
Posted

From what I have read and from experience I would say it essential that the train reverses a small amount after putting a turn or two on the mainspring.  It is a very good indication that the wheel train is running freely,  any power losses in the train are robbing the balance wheel of max. power.  I would even say that if you do not get a reversal,  find out why!

 

This is true, except the watches with a seconds pinion held under tension with a spring - those will not recoil.

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