Stuck Cap Jewel Setting

[Keitharoo]

I have removed the two screws from the sides of the cap jewel setting of the balance in an Elgin, B.W. Raymond 18s pocket watch that I'm working on, but I can't get that setting to come out so I can remove, clean and oil the cap jewel.  Is there a technique or a special tool?  I'm hoping that I don't have to push the entire hole jewel / cap jewel assembly out of the plate and balance cock just to get the cap jewel off.

[jdm]

Soaking the part in the cleaning solution of your choice doesn't help ?

[jnash]

have you tried using a piece of rodico to pick it up with ?

[Keitharoo]

It's already been through the cleaner, I was afraid to remove the screws before the cleaner because I might have to search for the cap jewel if it came out.  I tried the rodico, but after multiple tries, the setting didn't even budge.

[rogart63]

Isn't a one part with the part where the screws are? You could just slide a knife under the cap jewel  with the metal around it ? 

[Keitharoo]

Isn't a one part with the part where the screws are? You could just slide a knife under the cap jewel  with the metal around it ? 

 

Are you saying that I can pry up on it without bending or breaking something?  I was afraid to try that.

[rogart63]

Can't find a good picture. But i am thinking it looks likes this? The round one?

You need a loupe to see the picture :)  

Edited March 21, 2016 by rogart63

[syfre]

  I'm hoping that I don't have to push the entire hole jewel / cap jewel assembly out of the plate and balance cock just to get the cap jewel off.

 

Yes you have to do that.

 

If the cap jewel don't come easily, use a stacking tool and carefully select a concave punch to push the setting, never  the jewel.

[Keitharoo]

Ok.  I will go ahead and try the staking tool idea.  I'll just have to be careful to follow the advice of only pushing on the setting, not the jewel.  Oh boy...scary, scary stuff for a newbie.

[jdm]

Ok.  I will go ahead and try the staking tool idea.  I'll just have to be careful to follow the advice of only pushing on the setting, not the jewel.  Oh boy...scary, scary stuff for a newbie.

Alternatively don't stress, clean the whole part, lubricate and reinstall. it's not that which will make the difference.

Edited March 22, 2016 by jdm

[Keitharoo]

Ok, I set up my staking tool to push the jewel out, and before I could even apply any pressure, just the weight of the stake popped the jewel, setting and all, right out of the plate.  Now I won't be afraid to do it this way the next time.  Thanks for all the help everybody!