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Posted

I'm working on two Waltham 1883 size 18s pocket watches and can't seem to find the problem with either one; which is they wind but do not run.  The balance and staff appear to be okay.  Since I'm a newbie I thought someone might know a common problem(s) with these vintage watches.  How do I check the mainspring because I hear that might be a cause.

 

Thanks,

 

Timezone

Posted

If the crown ( Winder ) keeps going round and does not come to a stop then there is either no mainspring in the barrel or it has snapped. 

 

I would start by dismantling the winding wheels and then then remove the plate, get the mainspring barrel out, check inside to see what is going on with the spring.

 

Quite a simple procedure but if you search online for " fitting a pocket watch mainspring " you will find several videos. There may even be one here. 

 

Let us know how you get on.

 

Mike

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Posted

Hi Mike:

 

Thanks for the help.  I'll check out the mainspring as you instructed.  I have a lot to learn yet as you can see.  I'll let you know how I make out.

 

 

Thanks so much!

 

Rich   (Timezone)

Posted

Yup - sounds like a broken mainspring. The other problem that occurs with winding is when the click is bust - winds and then winds down immediately - but yours sounds like a snapped mainspring.

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Posted

Mod:

 

Thanks for your reply.  The consensus seems to be the mainspring. The clicks are both good.  I'll investigate and let you guys know the outcome.

 

Cheers,

 

Rich

Timezone

Posted

I'm working on two Waltham 1883 size 18s pocket watches and can't seem to find the problem with either one; which is they wind but do not run.  The balance and staff appear to be okay.  Since I'm a newbie I thought someone might know a common problem(s) with these vintage watches.  How do I check the mainspring because I hear that might be a cause.

 

Thanks,

 

Timezone

Posted

To Mike & WillFly:

  

Follow up on the above, the mainspring was the problem in both cases.  Thanks so much for your help and info.

 

Gratefully,

 

Timezone

(Rich)

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