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Handbook of Watch and Clock Repairsa PDF
Handbook of Watch and Clock Repairsa PDF
H A R R I S
Handbook
of
Watch
and
Clock
Repairs
1972
NEW YORK
1 W o r k b e n c h a n d tools 9
2 Materials 21
3 T h e t u r n s a n d their uses 23
4 T h e movement 29
5 Overhauling a n d cleaning 35
6 Wheel trains 57
7 H a n d s , dial a n d m o t i o n w o r k 60
8 Keyless w o r k 66
9 Barrels, mainsprings a n d fusee chains 71
10 Escapements 79
11 Balances 93
12 Shock proofing 103
13 Cases 109
14 Magnetism 113
Part Three: CLOCKS
Index 174
Preface
T H E R E h a v e been m a n y b o o k s written o n the repair o f watches
a n d clocks b u t the majority have been intended for the serious
horologist a n d the apprentice.
Little h a s been d o n e to publicize horology as a hobby.
M a n y will say that to do such a thing is inadvisable without
p r o p e r training. But w h a t of the present-day hobbyists w h o are
self-taught a n d whose interest in their subject is such t h a t their
knowledge a n d skill often surpass those whose full-time
occupation it is?
I have k n o w n m e n w h o , since their youth, have been interested
in r a d i o . Their knowledge a n d skill today are extensive a n d
although n o t qualified in the official sense, nevertheless they have
become authorities on their subject. Similar remarks can be
directed t o w a r d s other occupations, a n d so it is with watch a n d
clock repairing.
In writing this b o o k , I have a s s u m e d t h a t the reader h a s no
knowledge of the subject a n d I have endeavoured, therefore, to
concentrate on the basic principles rather t h a n advanced work.
An a t t e m p t has also been m a d e to show the beginner t h a t quite
a lot of practical w o r k can be d o n e with limited e q u i p m e n t a n d
a small initial outlay.
In the course of overhauling a m o v e m e n t the beginner will
frequently be confronted with a j o b beyond his ability a n d which
requires t h e use of e q u i p m e n t n o t in his possession. The appendix
a t t h e b a c k o f t h e b o o k will guide t h e reader o n h o w t o g o a b o u t
sending w o r k to an outside repairer. Once having established a
contact, no j o b should be t o o big or t o o difficult to tackle.
A little practice at h o m e dismantling a n d assembling some old
m o v e m e n t s will quickly introduce confidence a n d provide the
reader with the light t o u c h necessary when working on watches.
7
8 PREFACE
CHAPTER ONE
9
10 WATCH AND CLOCK REPAIRS
Fig. 1. Workbench.
WORKBENCH AND TOOLS 11
are adjusted until, when the file is equidistant over the brass the
t w o pressures are the same.
As the stroke continues, the two d o w n w a r d pressures are p r o -
gressively reversed until, when the file has reached the end of its
stroke, the heavier d o w n w a r d pressure is being m a d e on the
handle a n d the lighter d o w n w a r d pressure on the tip.
A little practice a n d it will be found that the knack of maintain-
ing these varying pressures will n o t be difficult.
Pillar files usually have b o t h edges s m o o t h t h u s enabling one
face of a step to be filed without removing metal from the
adjacent face.
Quite frequently taper pins will have to be m a d e by filing; this
is k n o w n as 'pin-filing'.
A small block of fibre or hard wood is needed having in one
face a n u m b e r of grooves of varying depths. T h e block is placed
in the vice with the grooves uppermost. A piece of selected brass
r o d or wire is placed in the j a w s of the pin-vice (Fig. 3), the
p r o t r u d i n g length dependent on the length of the pin required.
T h e wire is laid in one of the grooves a n d held at a slight
d o w n w a r d angle. T h e groove selected is t h a t which allows the
wire to just stand p r o u d of the surface of the block.
A fine pillar file is selected and a light forward stroke is m a d e .
T h e right h a n d can control the file better if the forefinger is
Fig. 3. Pin-vice.
straight a n d its tip resting on the side of the file. At the same time
the pin-vice is r o t a t e d between the forefinger a n d t h u m b of the
left h a n d causing the wire to revolve against the direction of the
file.
W h e n the stroke is completed, the file is d r a w n back, lightly
resting on the wire to keep the wire in t h e groove, a n d the
14 WATCH AND CLOCK REPAIRS
Fig. 7. Tweezers.
the vice a few hard blows with the tool handle. This should result
in the handle being firmly in position.
Broaches. W h e n broaching a hole do n o t use force. Small
broaches can be held in a pin-vice a n d rotated between the fore-
finger a n d t h u m b . Larger broaches need thin wooden handles.
W h e n cutting with a broach plenty of lubrication and frequent
clearing of broach cuttings is necessary.
Blueing pan. This is used for blueing polished steel parts T h e
p a n is a piece of brass sheet measuring approximately 1 1/2 in. x 1 in.
a n d drilled with a row of graduated holes at one end.
To the other end is riveted a short length of steel r o d over which
a wooden handle is driven (Fig. 11).
T h e p a r t s to be blued are placed on the p a n which is then passed
through a spirit flame.
As the temperature of the steel parts increases, the surface
colour of the steel changes to blue.
T h e p a n is removed from the flame and the parts are either
dropped into oil or they are allowed to cool off a n d given a coat
of colourless lacquer.
Graduated Stake. (Fig. 12). This is a flat steel block, h a r d e n e d
Materials
Oil. The lubrication of watches a n d clocks is d o n e by oil refined
specially for the purpose. Clock oil h a s a slightly greater viscosity
t h a n watch oil. Both are supplied in small bottles of convenient
size.
In C h a p t e r 5 we shall be discussing the oiling of a watch move-
m e n t a n d when you realize h o w very little oil a complete watch
needs, you will then appreciate t h a t even a small bottle will last
a very long time.
W h e n ordering y o u r oil, be it for watches or clocks, buy the
very best. P o o r quality oil soon thickens and you will find yourself
dismantling a n d cleaning the m o v e m e n t all over again.
M a k e sure it is watch or clock oil. D o n ' t be misled into thinking
t h a t light machine oil will d o , no m a t t e r h o w superior the quality
m a y be.
If the viscosity of the oil is t o o great for the working p a r t s , the
resistance is going to effect the time-keeping.
Pegwood. Sticks of pegwood are sold in bundles a b o u t 6 in.
long. They are used mainly for cleaning o u t pivot holes. This is
d o n e by shaving one end of a stick to a fine point, inserting the
point t h r o u g h the jewel hole a n d lightly twisting between the
finger a n d t h u m b . A n y dirt in the hole will become embedded in
the pegwood. G r e a t care m u s t be taken to ensure that the point
does n o t break off in the pivot hole. Until experience is gained it is
advisable to examine the pivot hole after this operation to m a k e
sure it is clear. If a piece does break off it can be removed by
inserting the pegwood from the other side.
Methylated spirit. This is used as fuel in the w a t c h m a k e r ' s spirit
l a m p . W h e n burning, it gives off a clean smokeless flame a n d does
n o t blacken or tarnish articles heated in it. This is essential when
tempering steel because of the necessity of watching the colour
change.
21
22 WATCH AND CLOCK REPAIRS
23
24 WATCH AND CLOCK REPAIRS
WATCHES
CHAPTER FOUR
The movement
A W A T C H movement of high quality is necessarily complicated.
M a n y h u n d r e d s of parts are used, each o n e c u t a n d fashioned by
craftsmen of unquestionable skill.
Some of these parts are so small they have to be seen u n d e r a
powerful magnifying glass before their perfection of design a n d
manufacture can be fully appreciated.
T h e term ' m o v e m e n t ' applies to the complete watch less the
case a n d it is measured in lignes.
T h e ligne was originally a F r e n c h measure, being 1/12th of a
p o u c e or F r e n c h inch. It travelled to E n g l a n d with the French
watchmakers. T h e ligne was further divided i n t o 12 douzièmes.
T h e ligne used today by the watch industries in E u r o p e is the
French measure—1 ligne is equal to 2.55883 millimetres. This is
approximately 3/32nds of an inch.
T h e American watch industry uses a measure originated by
A a r o n L. Dennison in 1850 employing a series of n u m b e r s with
zero size as a basis. This is equal to 35/30ths of an inch. M o v e -
m e n t s larger t h a n 0 are identified by full integers such as 1,2, 3,
etc. M o v e m e n t s smaller t h a n 0 a r e identified as 1/0, 2/0, 3/0, 4/0,
etc. Each step is equal to 1/30th of an inch.
There is a further complication t h a t jewellers also use lines,
b u t the jewellers' line is 1/40th of an inch.
T h e use of the ligne or line as a measure is n o t consistent with
m o d e r n manufacturing m e t h o d s a n d a n u m b e r of watch m a n u -
facturers have changed over completely to millimetres.
29
Fig. 22. Exploded view of general construction of inexpensive men's wrist-
watch movement.
THE MOVEMENT 31
35
36 WATCH AND CLOCK REPAIRS
prevent cracking of the enamel. W h e n lifting the dial off take care
not to lose the seconds h a n d if there is one fitted.
A n o t h e r m e t h o d used to secure the dial is the fitting of dog
screws.
These screws have a conical flange half way down their length.
O n e side of the flange is cut away. The screw is inserted in the
plate parallel and adjacent to the dial feet a n d turned so that the
edge of the flange passes into a slot cut in each dial foot. By
rotating the screws half a turn inward the c u t away portion faces
the dial feet and enables the dial to be withdrawn.
The dials of some of the cheaper watches are m a d e with small
tongues on the edge that are bent over to grip the movement when
the dial is in position. W h e n these tongues have been bent a few
times they snap off a n d means of securing the dial are lost.
In handling a dial of this kind it is essential that the tongues are
bent as little as possible.
Having removed the dial inspect the underside for signs of
fouling. The dial m a y have been pressing on the minute wheel
pinion. If this h a p p e n s the timekeeping will be erratic. T h e
minute wheel pinion may bind only in certain positions. W h e n the
watch is n o t being worn the pressure of the dial on the pinion
may just be sufficient to stop the movement, b u t the action of
disturbing the watch may cause the movement to function again.
D u r i n g the time the watch is w o r n the effect may be a slowing
d o w n at intermittent periods.
Should there be some d o u b t as to whether fouling is taking
place, a d r o p of oil on the pinion can be used as an indicator.
Replace t h e dial, operate the hand-set a n d rotate t h e m o t i o n
work. R e m o v e the dial a n d inspect again. A n y trace of oil on the
underside is an indication that there is insufficient clearance
between the dial a n d the minute wheel pinion.
There are t w o methods of increasing this clearance; by remov-
ing metal from the underside of the dial or by reducing t h e height
of the minute wheel pinion.
In the case of a metal dial take a chamois leather a n d fold it
into four thicknesses and place it on a flat block of w o o d on the
40 WATCH AND CLOCK REPAIRS
Lift out the pallet cock a n d screws and clean them in the same
way. T h e pallets (if from a lever escapement) have n o t been
immersed in the cleaning fluid. This is because some shellacs are
not impervious to gasoline a n d it is therefore considered better
n o t to soak them but to immerse t h e m in the fluid, agitate them
to remove the dirt and lift them straight out again.
Place them on the tissue paper to dry. Hold them with the
tweezers a n d thoroughly brush them with the soft brush. Finish
off by polishing the pallet stones with a pith stick.
Clean the leaves of the escape wheel pinion with a pointed
pegwood stick. R u b the stick up a n d down until the leaves are
bright. Well brush the wheel with the soft brush a n d then clean
each tooth a n d both pivots with the pith stick.
T h e teeth of an escape wheel fitted to a pin-pallet escapement
call for special attention. The constant action of the pallet pins
working in the escape wheel teeth causes a build-up of dirt at the
base of the teeth. This dirt is forced into the corners by the pins
a n d becomes quite h a r d .
N o r m a l soaking a n d brushing is insufficient to remove the dirt
a n d unless it is removed the shake of the roller will be affected.
If a sharp knife blade is placed at the r o o t of each tooth a n d
lightly drawn across, the dirt will c o m e away. Handle the blade
with care because careless handling can result in the removal of
metal which would have a serious effect on the escapement.
Finish off with a stiff brush.
Proceed with the rest of the movement in the same way making
sure each part is examined under the eye-glass when it is finished.
R e m e m b e r t h a t the large pieces such as cocks, bridges a n d plates
c a n be dried in the linen cloth.
The barrel is next to receive attention. Before removing the
barrel cover m a k e a note of its position in relation to the barrel.
It is essential that the cover be replaced in the same position.
Insert the blade of a screwdriver in the slot of the barrel cover
a n d gently ease the cover off.
Before proceeding any further a close inspection of the main-
spring a n d barrel is necessary. If the cover of the barrel is a g o o d
OVERHAULING AND CLEANING 49
Wheel trains
O N E vibration of a balance wheel is the completion of movement
in one direction. The total n u m b e r of vibrations in one h o u r can
be calculated by counting the n u m b e r of teeth in the wheels a n d
n u m b e r of leaves in the pinions.
Because the teeth of the main wheel in mesh with the centre
wheel pinion are only a means of transmitting power to the train
of wheels, timing is calculated from the centre wheel.
Let us assume the train is as shown in figure 24. Because the
centre wheel has eight times as many teeth as the pinion of the
third wheel it follows that one revolution of the centre wheel
causes the third wheel to rotate eight times.
Following on from this, if the third wheel has 75 teeth a n d the
fourth wheel pinion 10 leaves, then o n e revolution of the third
wheel is equal to 7 1/2 revolutions of the fourth wheel.
So far then, we can say t h a t the fourth wheel revolves 8 x 7 1/2 =
60 times to one revolution of the centre wheel.
Finally we c o m e to the escape wheel. The escape wheel pinion
has 8 leaves a n d is driven by the fourth wheel t h a t has 80 teeth.
One revolution of the fourth wheel will therefore cause the escape
wheel to revolve 10 times.
Fig. 24. Wheel train: (a) centre wheel 80 teeth (b) 3rd wheel 75 teeth,
pinion 10 leaves (c) 4th wheel 80 teeth, pinion 10 leaves (d) escape wheel
80 teeth, pinion 8 leaves.
57
58 WATCH AND CLOCK REPAIRS
60
HANDS, DIAL AND MOTION WORK 61
pinion a square file is used to enlarge the hole of the centre boss.
The file is used in the corners of the square hole a n d n o t on the
sides, making one stroke in each corner at a time. This will assist
in maintaining the square shape.
To enlarge a r o u n d hole, use a rat-tail file rather than a broach.
If the thickness of the centre boss needs to be reduced this can
be done by careful filing, but a m o r e satisfactory way is in the
turns.
W h e n opening out the holes of the h o u r h a n d a n d minute h a n d ,
care must be taken to keep the hole square with the hand, a n d n o t
to remove t o o much metal. The finished result should be a push
fit. In the case of the seconds h a n d the very lightest nip of the
pipe on the pivot is sufficient.
Enamel dials. D u e to the fragile n a t u r e of the layer of enamel,
these dials must be treated with care. If the enamel is cracked, it
is best left alone. Small pieces can be put back in position by
using glue. If a small piece is missing the space can be filled in
with dial enamel. The cement is warmed and r u n on to the dial
base and allowed to set. The cement is then filed d o w n to the level
of the surrounding enamel. Hold the dial by one of the feet in a
pair of pliers a n d pass the dial through a spirit flame. This will
momentarily melt the cement which will set with a glossy
surface.
To enlarge a dial hole a cone-shaped emery stick is used first
to produce a chamfer. These emery sticks are m a d e specially for
this purpose a n d can be obtained from your supplier. T h e hole
is then m a d e larger by filing with a rat-tail file moistened with
turpentine.
A broken foot can be replaced. T h e enamel at the back of the
dial is removed from the affected area by scraping with a sharp
pointed tool. A new foot is m a d e from a length of copper wire and
is silver-soldered to a small disc of copper a little larger in
diameter than the wire. T h e new foot is now soft-soldered into
position. M a r k s or discolouration are best removed with w a r m
soapy water.
Gold and silver dials. These dials are very delicate and should
Components Screws
100 Plate 5105 Barrel bridge (cheesehead,
105 Barrel bridge polished)
110 Train wheel bridge 5110 Train wheel bridge (cheese-
121 Balance cock head, polished)
125 Pallet cock 5121 Balance cock (cheesehead,
180 Barrel complete with arbor polished)
182 Barrel and cover 5125 Pallet cock, (cheesehead,
185 Barrel polished)
190 Barrel cover 5311 Top balance endpiece
195 Barrel arbor (countersunk, polished
201 Centre wheel complete ends)
210 Third wheel complete 5330 Bottom balance endpiece
220 Fourth wheel complete (countersunk, polished
240 Cannon pinion ends)
250 Hour wheel 5415 Barrel ratchet
260 Minute wheel 5420 Top crown wheel (trans-
301 Regulator index mission wheel)(lefthand)
311 Top balance endpiece 5425 Click
330 Bottom balance endpiece 5443 Setting bolt (pull-out piece)
401 Winding stem 5445 Setting bolt spring (pull-
407 Castle wheel out piece spring)
410 Winding pinion (crown 5721 Balance
wheel) 5738 Hairspring stud
415 Barrel ratchet 5750 Dial edge
420 Top crown wheel (trans-
mission wheel)
422 Crown wheel collar
425 Click Jewels
430 Click spring 630 Top balance
435 Return bar 631 Bottom balance
440 Return bar spring 615 Escape top
443 Setting bolt (pull-out piece) 616 Escape bottom
445 Setting bolt spring (pull-out 620 Top pallet
piece spring) 621 Bottom pallet
450 Intermediate wheel 646 Entry pallet
705 Escape wheel complete 647 Exit pallet
710 Pallets complete 610 Top fourth
721 Balance complete 611 Bottom fourth
723 Balance staff 605 Top third
730 Roller 606 Bottom third
734 Hairspring complete 601 Top centre
738 Hairspring stud 602 Bottom centre
770 Mainspring 648 Roller (impulse pin)
KEY TO PLATE 1
Plate I: 5 1/4 χ 8 3/4 ligne 15-jewel lever movement (see facing page).
Plate II: 5 1/4 χ 8 3/4 ligne movement.
Keyless work
K E Y L E S S work as the n a m e implies is a m e t h o d of winding the
mainspring without the use of a key.
There are a few ways in which this is d o n e but we will consider
the m e t h o d most used in wristwatches.
Figure 29 shows a typical a r r a n g e m e n t of keyless work. The
winding stem is threaded at one end for the winding b u t t o n . At
the base of the threaded portion is a shoulder that w o r k s in the
movement plate. Beneath this shoulder a groove is cut to receive
the pin of the pull-out piece, a n d beneath the groove is another
shoulder that locates the crown wheel. T h e remaining length is
squared to take the castle wheel with the exception of the end
which is turned d o w n to form a pivot.
The pull-out piece is retained in position by a shouldered
screw. The crown wheel rotates on the lower shoulder of the
winding stem. T h e castle wheel h a s a square hole and although free
to slide up a n d d o w n the squared portion of the winding stem
must nevertheless rotate with it. T h e check-spring is held in
position at one end by a screw, a n d the other end is positioned in
the groove of the castle wheel. T h e upper face of the castle wheel
a n d the lower face of the crown wheel are cut with identically
shaped ratchet teeth a n d are in mesh with each other. T h e upper
edge of the crown wheel is c u t with gear teeth which mesh with
the transmission wheel. T h e b o t t o m face of the castle wheel is
c u t with gear teeth a n d can be meshed with the intermediate
wheel.
The n o r m a l position for this mechanism is as shown in figure
29. T u r n i n g the winding b u t t o n a n d stem will cause the castle
wheel to rotate. Because the check-spring is holding the castle
wheel in mesh with the crown wheel the crown wheel must
rotate as well.
In turning the crown wheel, the transmission wheel on the t o p
66
KEYLESS WORK 67
bearing forms part of the plate, then the height of the bearing
must be machined d o w n in the turns.
Sometimes when pulling out the winding stem to alter the
setting of the h a n d s , the stem comes away from the movement.
This is caused by the pin of the pull-out piece failing to retain the
stem in position. If the pin of the pull-out piece, or the groove in
71
72 WATCH AND CLOCK REPAIRS
the dividers until the other leg just touches the base of the barrel
wall (Fig. 32, left). Measure this distance a n d readjust the dividers
to two-thirds of the original distance. W i t h the barrel still in
position on the sheet of metal lightly scribe a circle on the barrel
inner face (Fig. 32, centre).
If the inner face of the barrel cover is recessed, the height of the
mainspring should be level with the shoulder in the barrel wall
u p o n which the cover rests. If the cover is n o t recessed then the
height of the spring should be just below the shoulder.
There are various m e t h o d s of h o o k i n g the outer e n d s of main-
springs to barrels a n d figure 33 illustrates those in c o m m o n use.
Escapements
T H E two m o s t p o p u l a r forms o f escapement today are the lever
a n d the pin-pallet.
Whereas the lever has great precision a n d can be relied u p o n
to function accurately over long periods, the pin-pallet is a cheap
a n d robust p r o d u c t t h a t lends itself well to mass production.
Even so, the good service obtained from a pin-pallet escarpment
c a n n o t be ignored.
The lever (Fig. 36). To enable faults in a lever escapement to be
identified a working knowledge of its function is necessary.
79
80 WATCH AND CLOCK REPAIRS
T h e escape wheel tooth hits the locking face of the entry pallet
stone a n d the escape wheel is b r o u g h t to rest (Fig. 39, a). T h e
power in the escape wheel causes the tooth to press against the
locking face of the entry pallet stone pulling the stone d o w n . This
d o w n w a r d movement is called the draw (Fig. 40). The draw pulls
the lever hard against the banking pin a n d holds it there. This last
movement of the lever is k n o w n as the r u n to banking. If the
watch received a shock sufficient to overcome the draw, the lever
condition the pallet staff can be checked for shake, the same
r e m a r k s applying here as for the balance.
We n o w turn o u r attention to the locking of the escape wheel
teeth by the pallet stones. First, let the mainspring d o w n . N o w
fold a small piece of tissue paper a n d place it u n d e r the guard pin
of the lever ; this will hold the lever in any position we like to p u t it.
Take a pointed pegwood stick a n d position the escape wheel
a n d lever so as to bring a tooth in contact with the impulse face
of the entry pallet. Very slowly m o v e the escape wheel forward
until the t o o t h is just clear of the pallet. In this position the exit
pallet should be locking a tooth against its locking face.
N o w raise the exit pallet stone slightly a n d move the escape
wheel forward so that the tooth comes on to the impulse face.
M a k e sure t h a t in this position the entry pallet stone moves in
to lock the next tooth. This test must be repeated for all fifteen
teeth. If the entry stone mislocks on any tooth the cause must be
investigated.
Examine the tips of the escape wheel teeth. If they are showing
obvious signs of wear, the escape wheel must be renewed.
Examine the escape wheel pivot bearings a n d the pallet pivot
bearings for wear. A n y of these faults will cause the escape wheel
a n d the pallets to function at t o o great a distance from each other.
If no fault is found here, then adjustment m u s t be m a d e by
altering the positions of the pallet stones.
T h e stones are held in the pallets by shellac. If the shellac is
warmed, the stones can be moved a n d held in their new positions
until the shellac h a s set. If the entry stone is pulled out, the exit
stone must be moved in by the same a m o u n t , otherwise the exit
stone will be t o o deep when locking.
R e m o v e the lever from the watch and examine the impulse
faces of the pallet stones. If they are pitted they m u s t be replaced
by new stones.
Place the lever on a blueing p a n together with a small chip of
shellac. H e a t the p a n in a spirit flame until the chip of shellac
is softened. This will be the correct temperature at which to
move the stones.
84 WATCH AND CLOCK REPAIRS
of one of the pallet stones. At this point the distance between the
lever a n d the b a n k i n g pin should be a b o u t the thickness of a thin
razor blade. Both sides of the lever should have the same distance.
If the r u n to b a n k is t o o great, the distance between the banking
m u s t be reduced. If banking pins are employed, the pins are bent
towards each other a n d then given a second bend to bring them
parallel (Fig. 42). This is important, otherwise if the pins were
left tapering towards each other the r u n to banking would be
further reduced when the movement was turned over.
Some American watches use pins placed eccentrically in screws.
All that is needed here is that the screws are turned until the pins
a r e in the correct position in relation to the lever. The p r o b l e m of
maintaining the pins in a vertical attitude does not arise.
Solid bankings are employed in some movements a n d with
these a little extra w o r k is required to m a k e adjustments.
To decrease the gap a slot m u s t be cut in each b a n k i n g with a
very thin file such as one used for deepening the screwdriver slots
in screw heads (Fig. 43, a). T h e t w o pillars thus formed are bent
inward a n d their inner faces filed vertically.
Increasing the gap of solid bankings necessitates the removal
of a thin shaving of metal from the inner face using the blade of
a sharp screwdriver (Fig. 43, b).
Let the mainspring d o w n and lift the lever from the movement.
Place the lever on the blueing p a n with the shellac side uppermost
together with a chipping of shellac. H o l d the p a n in a spirit
flame a n d heat until the piece of shellac becomes soft. Place the
p a n on the bench a n d hold the lever with tweezers. Push the
pallet stone to one side in the direction required a n d hold it there
until cooled.
ESCAPEMENTS 87
Fig. 45. Pin pallet locking, (a) Correct. The escape wheel tooth strikes
the pallet pin above the centre, (b) Incorrect. The escape wheel tooth
strikes the pallet pin below the centre, (c) Mislock. The pallet pin is
struck by the impulse face of the escape wheel tooth, (d) Draw. The
pallet pin is pulled down to the base of the tooth.
Balances
A W A T C H balance consists of a hairspring and collet assembly,
a balance wheel and a roller, all of which a r e fitted to a c o m m o n
staff.
If a balance is subjected to a rise in temperature, the wheel
diameter will be increased causing the bulk of the weight to
move away from the centre. This will have the effect of slowing
d o w n the movement. A d r o p in temperature will have the reverse
effect a n d the m o v e m e n t will gain.
93
94 WATCH AND CLOCK REPAIRS
face, the pin being either a push fit in the balance cock or held in
position by a screw entering the balance cock at the side.
The balance staff moves in two jewel bearings, one in the b o t t o m
plate a n d the other in the balance cock.
A regulator or index is fitted to the balance cock a n d is free
to move within a restricted arc. T h e hairspring passes between
two index pins in the index.
W h e n the index is moved from one position to a n o t h e r the
effective length of the hairspring is altered causing the movement
to gain or lose according to the direction in which the index was
moved.
Fitting a flat hairspring. The original hairspring with its collet
m u s t first be removed. Hold the balance between finger and
t h u m b at each e n d of the balance a r m ; holding it this way will
prevent distortion. Push the blade of a steel oiler into the slot of
the collet, this will spring the collet and reduce the grip on the
balance staff. T u r n and lift the oiler in one movement a n d the
collet will be freed from the staff.
If the slot in the collet is t o o wide for the oiler, a thin knife
blade inserted beneath the collet will lift it from the staff.
It is not advisable to hold a stock of hairsprings because of the
very wide range in use in present-day watches.
Springs are m a d e in varying strengths in different sizes a n d to
enable your supplier to select the correct spring it will be necessary
to send the count (number of vibrations in one hour), the balance
a n d the balance cock with your order. We have seen h o w the
c o u n t is calculated in Chapter 6.
On receipt of the spring we m u s t ensure the strength is correct
a n d to do this the spring is temporarily fitted to the balance and
a count is m a d e .
First, lay the spring on the underside of the balance cock
centrally over the pivot hole. The diameter of the spring must be
sufficient to allow the outer coil to pass t h r o u g h the index pins
of the balance cock a n d then be pinned in the stud. If the spring is
t o o large m a k e a note of the approximate position that will be
pinned to the stud.
Plate IV: Wheel train and lever in position.
Refit the pin a n d the piece of spring to ensure that the pin finishes
a little m o r e t h a n half-way t h r o u g h the hole.
A collet holder m u s t n o w be m a d e . A piece of steel rod is filed
at o n e end to p r o d u c e a long taper. Polish the taper with a fine
emery stick a n d finish with a burnisher.
Lower the collet on to the taper until it just grips. M a k e sure
it is square with the holder a n d n o t at an angle.
BALANCES 99
figure 57. If the spring touches o n e of the index pins, bend the
spring at Β in figure 57 until the coil lies naturally between the
pins.
T h e b a l a n c e c a n n o w b e f i t t e d t o the m o v e m e n t , the m o v e m e n t
set in m o t i o n a n d a final check carried o u t to ensure t h a t the
spring is functioning correctly a n d t h a t no fouling is t a k i n g place.
Repairing a hairspring. Once a spring is damaged the most
satisfactory repair is to fit a new o n e , b u t there are circumstances
w h e n an a t t e m p t to straighten a bent hairspring is justified.
Fig. 57. Centralizing the hairspring and collet to the jewel hole.
Shock proofing
T H E parts of a watch most likely to suffer from shock are the
pivots of the balance staff. T h e diameter of these pivots is
approximately the same as that of a h u m a n hair. To k n o c k or
d r o p a watch imparts shock to the m o v e m e n t and invariably
some d a m a g e is caused to the balance staff pivots.
If the shock is severe, at least one pivot will break off a n d the
watch will stop. A less severe shock is likely to cause o n e or b o t h
pivots to bend. This d a m a g e m a y n o t be sufficient to prevent the
movement from functioning b u t it most certainly can cause bad
Fig. 58. Diagrammatic sketch of Kif Flector device, (a) Axial shock,
(b) Radial shock. Under the effect of a shock the balance wheel is
displaced, its pivot carrying away the jewel in-setting and end-stone.
The shock is absorbed by the part of the staff or the arbor which hits
the block. After the shock the spring instantly replaces the whole in its
initial position.
103
Fig. 59. Kif Flector. Removing end-stone and setting jewel.
Fig. 61. Kif Flector special tool. The mark on the handle indicates the
flat side of the point.
Fig. 64. Assembling the Incabloc Fig. 65. Assembling the Incabloc
into the balance cock. into the dial plate.
SHOCK PROOFING 107
Fig. 66. Exploded view of Monorex. (a) Cap jewel in setting with cap
jewel spring, (b) In-setting with jewel for balance, (c) Upper end-piece
without fittings, (d) Lower end-piece without fittings, (e) In-setting with
jewel for balance, (f) Cap jewel in setting with cap jewel spring.
clear. Press the ends towards the centre a n d raise the spring on
its hinge. T h e jewel c a p , the jewel a n d the jewel bushing can n o w
be lifted from the housing.
In the case of the upper assembly the housing is secured to the
balance cock by a U-bolt u n d e r n e a t h (Fig. 64). T h e lower
assembly housing is secured to the b o t t o m plate by a screw
(Fig. 65).
Fig. 67. Monorex shock absorber. Removing the jewel and bushing.
Cases
C A S E S are m a d e of gold, silver, stainless steel or plated brass.
Typical designs are illustrated in figures 68 a n d 69.
Pocket watch cases. Bezels are snapped on to the case middle.
D o m e s a r e either hinged to the base of the middle or a r e fixtures
a n d do n o t open, some cases have no domes. Backs are either
hinged to the base of the middle or they a r e snapped o n .
Wristwatch cases. M a n y are designed similar to pocket
watches b u t the modern trend is to fit movements into two-piece
cases as shown in figure 69. T h e bezel either fits over the back as
illustrated or snaps o n . Because the two-piece case has only one
detachable part, the possibility of dirt and dust entering the case
is reduced. This type of case is becoming increasingly p o p u l a r
a m o n g manufacturers.
The majority of American watch cases are fitted with screw-on
bezels a n d backs. This is undoubtedly the best method of main-
taining internal cleanliness.
109
110 WATCH AND CLOCK REPAIRS
Fig. 71. Glasses, (a) Flat crystal, (b) Crystal, (c) Double lunette,
(d) Lunette.
CHAPTER FOURTEEN
Magnetism
IT is n o t u n c o m m o n for watches to suffer from magnetism. The
effect is erratic time-keeping, gaining at irregular intervals
similar to t h a t which is b r o u g h t a b o u t by oil on the hairspring.
M u c h of the repairer's time can be spent chasing a watch fault
whilst the real cause of magnetism remains undetected. Therefore,
before we leave the overhaul of watches a few words a b o u t
magnetism may save a few frustrating h o u r s in the future.
F o r magnetism to have any noticeable effect on a watch it must
be present in the hairspring. Other steel parts such as the keyless
work, screws a n d mainspring are not likely to effect time-
keeping if they themselves become magnetized.
In m a n y m o d e r n watches the escapement is m a d e from n o n -
magnetic metals for this very reason. However, there are still
large n u m b e r s of watches m a d e with steel hairsprings that can
be magnetized a n d it is with these movements that we are going
to be concerned.
Remove the back of the case and with a pointed pegwood stick
close the coils of the hairspring a n d see if they stick together
when the pegwood is removed.
N o w place a pocket compass on the balance cock. T h e compass
needs to be the smallest obtainable for lightness a n d sensitivity of
the needle. A very suitable type is the toy t h a t is sometimes found
in party novelties.
Position the compass centrally over the balance pivot. Set the
balance in motion a n d note the effect on the compass. T h e needle
may vibrate in h a r m o n y with the balance or it m a y m a k e
c o m p l e t e revolutions, b u t in either case the presence of magnetism
has been established.
If the needle remains stationary, tap the compass in case the
needle has stuck.
Lift the compass from the watch and take the watch away. If
113
114 WATCH AND CLOCK REPAIRS
CLOCKS
CHAPTER FIFTEEN
The movement
As a time-piece the basic principle of a clock movement is the
same as that of a watch. It has its motive power, train of wheels,
escapement, a n d motion work with dial a n d hands.
Motive power is supplied either by a w o u n d spring or by
hanging weights.
F r o m figure 24 we can see t h a t the order of the wheels in a
watch is: the barrel, the centre wheel, the third wheel, the fourth
wheel a n d the escape wheel.
In a clock the barrel does n o t mesh with the centre wheel
pinion. T h e order is: the barrel, the intermediate wheel, the
centre wheel, the third wheel a n d the escape wheel.
The three most c o m m o n types of clock escapements are the
pin-pallet, the cylinder a n d the recoil. T h e pin-pallet is used
mostly in the lower priced alarm clocks a n d watches and has
been dealt with fully in Chapter 10.
The cylinder escapement is fitted to carriage clocks and is
described in C h a p t e r 20.
Whereas these two escapements are fitted with balance wheels,
the recoil escapement, which is described in Chapter 16, is
controlled by a p e n d u l u m .
When mechanisms such as strike a n d chime are added they
tend to m a k e the complete movement complicated. It is therefore
better to m a k e a study of these mechanisms separately. P a r t 3
has been written with this in mind.
116
THE MOVEMENT 117
Pendulum clocks
IN this chapter we are going to overhaul a simple p e n d u l u m clock
of the lower priced domestic variety. It seems reasonable to say
that these clocks are one of the m o s t p o p u l a r clocks in the h o m e
today.
Their low price is brought a b o u t by the high rate of mass
production. Large quantities are manufactured in G e r m a n y ,
the United States a n d G r e a t Britain.
The movements themselves are readily recognized. The plates
a n d wheels are coated with lacquer a n d m a n y of the parts are
pressed out by machine. Providing they are kept clean, oiled a n d
adjusted these clocks give excellent service over long periods.
In C h a p t e r 15 we spoke a b o u t taking movements from their cases
a n d removing dials and hands. Let us assume that this has been
done a n d that we are n o w ready to proceed with the overhaul.
First of all we need a small b u t strong c a r d b o a r d b o x on which
to place the movement and so prevent the m a n y protrusions from
d a m a g e . Better still of course would be a home-made box of ply-
wood cut to fit the movement.
N o w let the mainspring d o w n . If the m o v e m e n t is very old the
chances are that the mainspring will not be contained in a barrel
in which case a mainspring clamp will have to be fitted.
Place the key on the winding square a n d turn it in the direction
of winding. This will throw the ratchet click out which must then
be held in this position. Allow the tension of the spring to turn
the key backwards until your h a n d can go no farther. Release
the ratchet click back into the ratchet a n d then you may let go
of the key. Repeat this process until the spring is completely
unwound.
These springs are very powerful a n d could cause personal
injury to h a n d or fingers if allowed to r u n d o w n o u t of control.
A p a r t from this, to do such a thing would most probably result
119
120 WATCH AND CLOCK REPAIRS
and the solid pallet fitted to the G a r r a r d escapement (Fig. 73, right),
b o t h of which are provided with means of adjusting the depth.
In the case of the movement fitted with a strip pallet, the screw
holes in the pallet cock are elongated and all t h a t has to be done
is slacken off the two screws, reposition the pallet cock a n d tighten
the screws. It is a matter of trial a n d error b u t the correct position
is quickly found.
Adjusting the depth of a solid pallet is done by altering the
position of a screw on t o p of the back plate. Slacken off the two
Fig. 73. Recoil escapements. Strip pallet {left) and solid pallet (right).
pallet cock screws, rotate the adjusting screw and tighten the
pallet cock screws. By turning the adjusting screw in a clockwise
direction the pallet cock is raised which reduces the pallet depth,
a n d of course, to increase the depth the screw must be turned
counter-clockwise.
Having checked and adjusted the pallet depth we have ensured
that the escape wheel teeth will be properly locked. N o w we can
examine the a m o u n t of d r o p .
The d r o p of an escape wheel is the distance it travels from the
release of a tooth from one pallet to the next arrest of a tooth
by the other pallet.
To check the d r o p apply the same technique as was used when
checking the pallet depth. In determining whether the a m o u n t of
d r o p is correct, again the best advice is to c o m p a r e it with a
similar clock that has had little wear. M a k e a note of the adjust-
122 WATCH AND CLOCK REPAIRS
merits that are needed then remove the pallet cock and lift the
pallet a r b o r from the movement.
If the pallet is the strip type all that is needed is to bend the
offending pallet or pallets. Bending the entry pallet o u t w a r d will
decrease the d r o p on that pallet, a n d bending the exit pallet
o u t w a r d will increase the d r o p on that pallet.
These strip pallets are quite soft and can be bent cold but as a
precaution against cracking it is advisable to heat them first.
N o w that the pallet is out of the movement this is a good
opportunity to deal with worn pallet faces. Use a dead-smooth
file to restore the faces to their original surface, smooth off with
the finest emery stick a n d finish with a burnisher.
With the solid type of pallet the d r o p can be increased by
reducing the entry faces. These pallets are t o o hard to file a n d a
stone must therefore be used. An oilstone such as is used by a
cabinet m a k e r is best for this j o b . M a k e sure the stone is kept flat
a n d t h a t it follows the c o n t o u r of the pallet.
The m a r k s from the oilstone are then removed by an oilstone
slip keeping the grain flowing with the pallet. Finish off with a
very fine emery stick a n d then burnish.
Little can be done to decrease the d r o p in the solid type of
pallet but this is not important. W h a t is important is to avoid
having t o o little d r o p . Such a condition can, after pivot holes are
worn, lead to the pallets fouling the tops of the escape wheel
teeth a n d stopping the clock.
One last word a b o u t checking the d r o p of the escape wheel.
All escape wheel teeth must be checked with both entry and
exit pallets. Any variation in d r o p on one side of the wheel to a
position diametrically opposite will indicate the wheel being out
of r o u n d .
With the pallet a r b o r out of the movement we are now ready
to check the depth of mesh between the wheels and their
pinions.
Gearing is a subject a b o u t which complete books have been
written. It matters little whether we are interested in horology
or civil engineering, the theory of gearing is the same. Correct
PENDULUM CLOCKS 123
Fig. 74. Gear wheel and pinion in mesh, (a) Correct, (b) Too deep,
(c) Too shallow.
Striking clocks
T H E striking mechanism of a clock can best be understood if it is
divided into t w o groups, the motive p o w e r a n d the release
mechanism.
A typical striking clock is shown in Plate VII. T h e striking
mechanism has been illustrated diagrammatically in figures 75
a n d 76.
It will be seen that when the strike mainspring is w o u n d u p ,
energy is transmitted to the fly wheel. On the face of the fly wheel
is a pin. The upper end of the h o u r locking lever is bent so as to
arrest the pin a n d prevent movement of the wheel train.
The cannon pinion c a m lifts the h o u r warning lever which in
turn raises the h o u r locking lever. As the h o u r locking lever
rises :
(a) the fly wheel pin is released, the fly wheel rotates half of a
t u r n a n d is again arrested by the h o u r warning lever.
This movement of the fly wheel is k n o w n as the 'warning'.
(b) T h e h o u r locking lever releases the gathering pallet which
rotates a short distance during the half turn of the fly wheel.
128
STRIKING CLOCKS 129
Chiming clocks
T H E strike mechanism has been dealt with in Chapter 17 a n d so
in this chapter we will discuss the chime mechanism only.
D i a g r a m m a t i c sketches of the principle of the mechanism are
shown in figures 77 and 78. There are many variations of this
layout but the basic principle remains the same.
132
CHIMING CLOCKS 133
arrested by the chime flirt catching the pin on the chime warning
wheel. The chime train is now stationary again.
This action takes place a few minutes before each quarter of
an h o u r and, like the strike mechanism, is k n o w n as t h e ' w a r n i n g ' .
The chime train remains stationary until the star wheel has
moved r o u n d to a position when the release piece has been lifted
to the highest point of the star wheel a r m . The release piece then
drops a n d at that m o m e n t it is exactly a quarter of an hour.
T h e action of the release piece dropping causes the chime flirt
to fall which in turn releases the chime warning wheel and allows
the chime train to set in motion again. This time however there
is no interruption a n d the train is free to rotate. In doing so the
chime pin barrel is operated which in turn sets the h a m m e r
assembly in motion.
Immediately the chime flirt falls the chime locking plate lifts
the strike flirt a n d holds the detent clear of the pin on the locking
wheel. In this position the chime h a m m e r s will continue to
function but in the meantime the locking plate is rotating. As it
does so it brings a cut-away portion into line with the pin in the
strike flirt and the strike flirt and detent d r o p . This causes the
detent to arrest the locking wheel and chiming then stops.
T h e length of the cam faces on the locking plate are in the
proportion of 1, 2, 3 and 4, each cam length representing that
n u m b e r of quarters of an h o u r . T h u s on the h o u r the locking
plate turns with its longest c a m , representing four quarters, in
contact with the pin in the strike flirt. This allows the chime train
to rotate long enough for the h a m m e r s to strike the four quarters
prior to the h o u r strike being released.
Just before the pin in the strike flirt d r o p s into the cut-away
portion of the locking plate, a pin in the locking plate engages
the strike flirt a n d lifts it high enough for the strike rack h o o k to
be released which releases the strike train. The strike flirt how-
ever catches the pin in the strike warning wheel a n d arrests the
strike train until the full chime has been r u n g . The strike flirt then
drops into the cut-away portion of the locking plate a n d the
strike train is released without further interference.
Before dismantling the mechanism study it well. Cause it to
operate until you k n o w the sequence of operations sufficiently
well to be able to assemble the parts without difficulty.
We will assume t h a t the motion work a n d strike mechanism
have been removed a n d that the springs have been let down.
First, remove the parts from the back plate. T a k e off the
h a m m e r r o d assembly and the pin barrel assembly, then unscrew
the ratio wheel. U n p i n the strike lifting lever. Unscrew the pallet
cock and remove the pallets.
CHIMING CLOCKS 135
Grandfather clocks
A S P R I N G - W O U N D clock derives its motive p o w e r from a
coiled spring b u t a grandfather clock is powered by weights
suspended from chains or lines of gut.
These weights provide a greater force than a clock spring, a n d
consequently they are able to overcome resistances which in a
spring-wound clock would cause the m o v e m e n t to stop.
This inevitably results in grandfather clocks functioning con-
tinuously for periods far greater than are usually achieved by
spring-wound clocks.
Dirt, dust a n d lack of oil precipitate the rate of wear. It is a
fact that these clocks collect inside their cases an extraordinary
a m o u n t of dirt. With age, the oil partially evaporates a n d is partly
absorbed by dust. Eventually no oil is left a n d the moving parts
receive no lubrication.
T h e force of the weights continues to operate the clock a n d
wear is therefore accelerated on all friction surfaces. Eventually
this wear becomes so excessive that even the weights are unable
to overcome the resultant resistance.
Examination of a movement in this condition will disclose
badly worn pivots, elongated pivot holes, worn pallets and, quite
often, rusty steel parts.
However, before commencing the dismantling of a grandfather
clock, let us examine it in its case. Sometimes a fault can be found
and rectified without removing the movement from its case which
will set it in motion again. M a k e sure, of course, that the gut has
not b r o k e n allowing a weight to fall to the b o t t o m , or that the
clock only needs winding.
T h e methods used to secure m o v e m e n t s to their seat b o a r d s
are often very p o o r a n d are a constant source of trouble. T h e seat
board m u s t be held rigid to the clock case a n d the clock m o v e -
ment must be held firmly to the seat b o a r d . The inertia in the
136
GRANDFATHER CLOCKS 137
Carriage clocks
W H E N carriage clocks were m a d e they were intended as travelling
clocks. T h e movement is encased in glass panels m o u n t e d in a
gilded frame. The clocks were supplied with a leather-covered
felt-lined wooden travelling case which was cut away at the front
to expose the dial. On top of the case was fitted a lid with a
spring-loaded snap fastener. Raising the lid exposed the escape-
m e n t which operated on t o p of the movement. T h e lid also
142
CARRIAGE CLOCKS 143
The balance wheel fits over the upper end of the cylinder a n d
the teeth of the escape wheel pass through the cut-away portion
at the lower end of the cylinder.
By referring to figure 82 we can see the cycle of movement :
Only if the inside shake is tight with a very loose outside shake
is it necessary to take rectifying action. T h e remedy is to renew
the cylinder by fitting one with a larger diameter.
Set in the rim of the balance wheel is a small b a n k i n g pin which
is arrested by a larger pin fitted in the b a c k of the balance cock.
T h e p u r p o s e of this pin is to prevent t h e balance wheel from
swinging t h r o u g h an angle greater than 180 degrees in either
direction. If the balance wheel exceeded this a m o u n t of swing it
would foul the escape wheel teeth a n d the movement would stop.
If the balance wheel pin is missing it should be replaced. If it is
worn, broken or bent it should be renewed otherwise there is the
danger of it trying to pass the pin in the balance cock a n d
becoming fast.
Cuckoo clocks
T H E popularity o f c u c k o o clocks has returned and today there
is a thriving m a r k e t in E u r o p e catering for the tourist trade.
These clocks are smaller a n d less complicated than the original
cuckoo clocks a n d they are less expensive. The originals are fast
becoming antiques a n d are being sought after by dealers.
It is the older type of clock we are going to discuss because
it is t h o u g h t t h a t an understanding of this mechanism will
149
Fig. 87. Strike and cuckoo mechanism without wheel train. A. Cannon
pinion. B. Lifting piece. C. Lifting arbor. D. Raising wire. E. Engaging
pin. F. Locking arbor. G. Fly wheel locking piece. H. Fly wheel pin.
J. Fly wheel. K. Hammer arbor. L. Bellows wire (short). M. Bellows
wire (long). N. Hammer pin. O. Pin wheel. P. Bellows pins. Q. Cuckoo
arbor. R. Cuckoo arbor pin. S. Cuckoo operating pin. T. Locking
wheel. U. Count wheel locking piece. V. Count wheel. W. Door wire.
X. Tip wire. Y. Bellows. Z. Pipe.
CUCKOO CLOCKS 151
I n t h e m e a n t i m e t h e c a n n o n pinion h a s c o n t i n u e d t o r o t a t e
a n d n o w t h e lifting pin moves clear of t h e lifting piece Β which
d r o p s . It follows t h a t t h e raising wire D m u s t also d r o p a n d in
doing so the fly wheel pin Η is again released a n d the t r a i n of
wheels goes i n t o m o t i o n .
A r o u n d t h e edge of t h e pin wheel Ο a r e seven pins spaced at
equal distances. As t h e wheel r o t a t e s t h e pins trip t h e bellows
pins Ρ causing t h e wires L a n d M to o p e r a t e the bellows. T h e
s a m e pins then carry on to trip t h e h a m m e r pin Ν causing the
h a m m e r t o o p e r a t e . D u e t o the a n g u l a r m o v e m e n t s o f the h a m m e r
a n d t h e bellows wires, t h e h a m m e r strikes first followed by the
long bellows wire M s o u n d i n g ' C U C ' a n d finishing with t h e
short bellows wire L s o u n d i n g ' Κ Ο Ο ' .
W h e n t h e raising wire D d r o p p e d , the locking a r b o r F swung
r o u n d a n d caused t h e h o o k of t h e locking piece G to d r o p i n t o
the recess in the locking wheel Τ b u t t h e wheel train was in
m o t i o n a n d therefore t h e c a m action of the locking wheel Τ
raised the locking piece G again.
At the s a m e time t h a t the locking piece G is being raised t h e
c o u n t wheel locking piece U is being lifted from o n e of the slots
c u t in t h e r i m of t h e c o u n t wheel V a n d t h e p i n i o n on t h e e n d of
the pin wheel a r b o r is causing t h e c o u n t wheel V to slowly r o t a t e .
T h e result of this action is t h a t w h e n t h e recess of t h e locking
wheel T again c o m e s opposite t h e h o o k e n d of the locking piece G,
t h e h o o k e n d is prevented from d r o p p i n g into the recess by the
locking piece U riding on the r i m of the c o u n t wheel V.
T h e rim of the c o u n t wheel V is cut i n t o eleven segments each
longer t h a n its n e i g h b o u r . T h e strike a n d c u c k o o action will
c o n t i n u e to function for so long as the mechanism is kept in
o p e r a t i o n by t h e locking piece U riding on a segment of t h e
c o u n t wheel V.
W h e n t h e c o u n t wheel V h a s m o v e d r o u n d to bring t h e next
slot opposite the locking piece U, t h e locking piece U will d r o p
causing t h e locking piece G to d r o p a n d t h e train of wheels will
then be arrested by t h e fly wheel p i n H c o m i n g i n t o c o n t a c t with
t h e t o n g u e on the end of locking piece G.
154 WATCH AND CLOCK REPAIRS
French clocks
D υ Ε to the n a t u r e of F r e n c h clocks being show-pieces as well as
first-class time-pieces, extra care a n d trouble is expended during
cleaning.
F u n d a m e n t a l l y the sequence is clean, wash, dry a n d polish.
T h e r e c o m m e n d e d cleaning agent is a liquid metal polish.
If this is applied with a stiff watch brush, a very fine finish can
be achieved.
Shake some metal polish i n t o a shallow tin a n d dip the end of
the b r u s h i n t o it.
The p a r t to be cleaned is held in the h a n d in a piece of soft
cloth such as an old handkerchief. B r u s h inside the bars of the
wheels with a side m o t i o n so t h a t the grain will follow the
c o n t o u r of the a p e r t u r e .
T a k e extreme care n o t to k n o c k the pivots with the b r u s h
because a p a r t from being very fine they a r e also quite h a r d a n d
easily s n a p off.
W h e n brushing the teeth m a k e sure t h a t the brush m o v e m e n t
is m a d e square with the wheel to ensure t h a t the bristles reach the
base of the teeth. Be very meticulous with the gearing a n d r o u n d
the wheels t w o or three times.
When brushing the sides keep the b r u s h m o v e m e n t always in
the same direction. Never cross the grain.
Plates a n d o t h e r flat pieces a r e similarly treated, the grain
always flowing with the length of the p a r t .
To clean the oil sinks, place a hand-drill in the vice a n d secure
in the c h u c k a short length of pegwood shaped like a flat drill.
C u t a small square of c h a m o i s leather, smear it with a spot of
metal polish a n d place it over the oil sink. Bring the w o r k up to
the pegwood stick a n d r o t a t e the hand-drill at a g o o d speed
causing the c h a m o i s leather to spin in the sink.
W h e n all the b r u s h w o r k is finished, take a leather buff
156
FRENCH CLOCKS 157
(supplied for the purpose) smear a very little metal polish over its
surface a n d buff all the plates, bridge pieces, etc., retaining the
same direction of grain.
All these parts n o w have to be washed in a cleaning fluid. Lay
t h e m in a p a n of suitable size, p o u r the fluid over t h e m a n d with
a 1/2-in. varnish brush remove every trace of the metal polish.
As each part becomes washed lift it o u t of the tray and lay it
on folded newspaper to a b s o r b the surplus fluid. T h e parts are
then dried in a linen cloth.
Polishing is carried o u t with a soft watch brush charged with
billiard chalk. All the parts a r e brushed as before, b u t of course,
n o t so energetically, a n d for this operation they are held in tissue
paper.
The oil sinks are polished using the same method by which they
were cleaned only this time dry chamois leather is used.
Finally, all pivot holes, threaded a n d plain holes a n d pinion
leaves are cleaned out a n d rubbed over with a pointed pegwood
stick. W h e n cleaning o u t the pivot holes the pegwood stick is
inserted at b o t h ends a n d rotated. Any dirt on the stick after
withdrawal is shaved off a n d the stick is inserted again. This
process continues until all traces of dirt have been removed.
As each part becomes finished it is p u t in a box away from
dust.
Blued steel screws that have become m a r k e d should be restored
to their original condition. This is best done by spinning the
screw in a lathe. R e m o v e the blueing and the m a r k s with a dead-
s m o o t h file, polish with a piece of very fine emery paper a n d
finish with a flat burnisher.
T h e screw head must n o t be touched by h a n d . Clean o u t the
screwdriver slot a n d remove the screw from the chuck with
tweezers.
There are two m e t h o d s of blueing and preservation. One is to
place the screws on a blueing p a n (Fig. 11) a n d move it a b o u t in
a spirit flame until the screw heads turn the right colour and then
tip them i n t o a tray containing thin oil. T h e screws are then
washed in cleaning fluid.
158 WATCH AND CLOCK REPAIRS
Alarm clocks
T H E R E is a wide range of a l a r m clocks on the m a r k e t especially
in the lower-priced models, a n d different methods of casing are
employed.
Before dismantling an a l a r m clock it will be necessary to study
the case to understand the design a n d m e t h o d of assembly.
It is usual for the back of the case to be m a r k e d with a r r o w s
to indicate the direction of turning the winding keys. The reverse
direction will unscrew them.
If the winding-click is broken any a t t e m p t to unscrew the key
will only result in the key a n d a r b o r turning together. To over-
c o m e this, some clocks have a slot machined in the outer end of
the spring arbor. A screwdriver is held in the slot a n d the a r b o r
held stationary while the key is unscrewed.
T h e hand-set b u t t o n is usually a push-on fit a n d only needs a
straight pull to remove it. T h e alarm-set button is removed by
unscrewing it against the direction of setting the a l a r m .
Sometimes the threads of the feet pass through the case a n d
into the movement plate preventing the movement from being
withdrawn. Unscrew the feet by wrapping them in two or three
thicknesses of cloth a n d gripping them in pliers.
T h e r o u n d case is the m o s t c o m m o n type in the lower-priced
models. T h e bezel either pushes into the front of the case, or it
forms p a r t of the case a n d the back pushes in from the rear.
Sometimes the back is held in position by three or four screws.
H a v i n g removed the external parts a n d opened the case, the
movement is n o w ready to be lifted o u t complete with dial a n d
hands.
T h e minute h a n d a n d the a l a r m h a n d can be removed by using
the lever shown in figure 10. N o w b e n d back t w o of the tabs
holding the dial to the m o v e m e n t a n d remove the dial complete
with the h o u r h a n d a n d h o u r wheel.
159
160 WATCH AND CLOCK REPAIRS
position of the stud. T h e balance spring must lie quite flat when
secured in the stud hole.
Fit the balance to the m o v e m e n t a n d adjust the upper bearing
screw until end-shake of the balance staff disappears. N o w
unscrew the bearing screw slightly until there is j u s t sufficient
end-shake for free movement.
R o t a t e the balance until the impulse pin enters the lever a n d
at the same time guide the e n d of the spring through the index
pins a n d into the stud hole. T h e actual position of the spring to be
pinned in the stud will be indicated by the kink in the spring
caused by the previous pinning. Insert the pin into the stud a n d
carefully squeeze it in tightly using the thin pliers. T h e balance
should n o w be free to vibrate.
Having assembled the balance it is necessary to check the beat
of the escapement.
Move the balance wheel r o u n d with the tip of a finger a n d
watch the action of the escape wheel. Immediately a tooth of the
escape wheel falls away from a pallet, stop the m o v e m e n t of the
balance wheel a n d note its position. N o w reverse the direction
of the balance wheel a n d continue moving it until a t o o t h of the
escape wheel falls away from the other pallet. Stop m o v i n g the
balance wheel a n d note its new position. If the escapement beat
is correct, the balance wheel will have moved the same distance
on each side.
Rest the centre a r b o r on a stake a n d fit the c a n n o n pinion
by gently tapping it d o w n with a hollow p u n c h . The alarm wheel
is n o w placed in position and the alarm wheel pin fitted.
Oil the wheel train pivot bearings, the balance bearing screw
sinks a n d the pallets. P u t one d r o p of oil on each pinion. Oil the
rim of the alarm wheel and the edges of the mainspring a n d the
alarm spring.
N o w fit the h o u r wheel a n d the m i n u t e wheel a n d secure the
dial. F i t the hand-set b u t t o n a n d the alarm-set button a n d screw
on the two winding keys.
We n o w have to synchronize the a l a r m mechanism with
the time mechanism. R e m o v e the tension from the alarm
166 WATCH AND CLOCK REPAIRS
Electric clocks
A N electric clock consists o f a n electric m o t o r , powered b y a n
A . C . current, driving a pair of h a n d s by means of reduction
gearing. T h e speed of the electric m o t o r will vary with the m a k e
a n d also with the electrical supply for which it was designed. An
average speed is a b o u t 200 revolutions per minute.
In C h a p t e r 4 we said that most wheel or gear trains are designed
to reduce speed a n d increase power b u t t h a t in mechanically
powered time-pieces the reverse is the case.
N o w t h a t we are dealing with an electrically powered time-
piece we find t h a t the gear train is used in its conventional form,
i.e., to provide a reduction of speed.
The ratio of the reduction m u s t be such as to provide two gears
with speeds of one revolution per h o u r a n d one revolution per
twenty-four h o u r s respectively. These then will be the gears to
carry the h a n d s .
Assuming the m o v e m e n t has been removed from its case, take
off the electric m o t o r a n d examine the terminals a n d wires for
security a n d cleanliness. If necessary resolder the wires to m a k e
g o o d contact. Use a resin flux when soldering. Do n o t use spirits
of salts because of its corrosive properties a n d the problems of
washing it off.
Having m a d e sure t h a t the electrical connexions are good, try
the gear train for freedom. If all the gears spin freely with no
signs of harshness then refit the m o t o r .
Support the m o v e m e n t over a c a r d b o a r d b o x and connect up
to the m a i n s supply. If the m o t o r fails to operate then it will
have to be overhauled.
Some m o t o r s are sealed by the manufacturers with the intention
of providing a replacement unit service. Unless you are skilled in
the overhaul of electric m o t o r s it is better to return the unit to
the manufacturer or o n e of his agents.
167
Fig. 91.
ELECTRIC CLOCKS 169
APPENDIX
Mail ordering
Horological Journals
List of Suppliers
Benders Watch Service I Hamlin Clock Dials D Osborne, A. A. & Son B,E
205 E. Ashdale St. 299 S. Vinedo Avenue c / o House of Clocks
Philadelphia, Pa. 19120 Pasadena, Calif. 91107 707 So. Hill Street
Los Angeles, Calif. 90014
Borel, Jules & Company Κ Henderson, D o n Company Ν
1110 Grand Box 1260 Rosenthal Jewelers Supply
Kansas City, Mo. 64106 Ada, Okla. 74820 Corp. L
139 N.E. 1st Street - Suite 620
Borel & Frei, Inc. Κ Herman, Ralph Clock Miami, Fla. 33132
315 W. Fifth St. House B,C,0
Los Angeles, Calif. 90013 628 Coney Island Ave. St. Louis Refining
Brooklyn, Ν.Υ. 11218
Company C,H,I,0,P
Campbell M,R
802 Arcade Building
1424 Barclay Hersey Watch Timer
812 Olive St.
Springfield, Ohio 45505 Service Ν
St. Louis, Mo. 63101
226 S. Wabash Ave.
Cleveland-Miami Band Chicago, Ill. 60604
Smelting & Refining Co.,
Repair Co. J
Inc. Q
P.O. Box 1259 Horolovar Company, The Β,Ο
P.O. Box 2010
St. Petersburg, Fla. 33731 Box 400 A
1712 Jackson
Bronxville, N.Y. 10708
Dallas, Texas 75221
Davidson Jewelers Supplies L
861 - 6th Ave. Rm. 310 Iowa Jewelry Supply Co. L
San Diego, Calif. 92101 Swigart, E. & J. Co. B,K
317-320 Empire Building
34 W. 6th Street
6th & Walnut Streets
Donahue, Stanley Co., Inc. L Cincinnati, Ohio 4 5 2 0 2
Des Moines, la. 50309
705 Main Street Rm. 530
Houston, Texas 77002 Κ & J Watch Service I Tela-Time Industries Tronix
P.O. Box 9262 Toll Corp. L,S
Empire Clock Denver, Colorado 80209 37 West 47th Street
Company B,0,S New York, N.Y. 10036
1295 Rice Street Kilb & Company Ο
St. Paul, Minn. 55117 623 Ν. 2nd Street Tick Tock Shop C,I
P.O. Drawer 8-A P.O. Box 44181
Frei, Otto-Borel, Jules, Inc. Κ Milwaukee, Wisc. 53201 Cleveland, Ohio 4 4 1 4 4
P.O. Box 796
Oakland, Calif. 94606 LaRose, S., Inc. A,B,L.O Wade, H. R. & Son, Inc. L
Greensboro, N o . Car 2 7 4 2 0 608 East Central
R. Givler C Wichita, Kansas 67202
146 3rd Marshall, C & Ε L
Wadsworth, Ohio 44281 1113 West Belmont Wisconsin Jewelers
Chicago, Ill. 60657 Supply Co. L
Goldfarb, A. J., Inc. Ο Madison Bldg.
251 W. 30th St. Mason & Sullivan Co. A,D,0 623 N. 2nd Street
N e w York, Ν.Υ. 10001 Osterville, Mass. 02655 Milwaukee, Wise. 53203
Index
ALARM C L O C K S : opening, 110-11
dismantling, 159-63 bruises, 111
escapement and balance, 160-2 hinge repairs, 111-12
pivots and holes, 162-3 snaps, 112
cleaning, 163-4 pendulum clock, 117-18
reassembly, 164-6 grandfather clock, 136-7, 140
setting the alarm, 166 carriage clock, 142-8
American Horologist and Jeweller, alarm clock, 159
address, 172 Cement, dial, 22
Chalk as a cleaner, 22, 45-6
Chiming mechanism:
B A L A N C E , function of, 33 explanation of working, 132-4
dismantling and cleaning, 42-3, dismantling, 134-5
46-8 Cleaning fluids, 22
reassembly, 54-5 Cleaning technique, watches, 45-
compensated, 93-5 50
the hairspring, 95-102 clocks, 125-6
index pins, 102 grandfather clocks, 138-9
Banking, run to, 84-7 French clocks, 156
Barrels, going and stationary, alarm clocks, 163-4
32 Clocks, general principles, 116-17,
dismantling, 48-9 and see Alarm, Carriage,
reassembling, 53-4 Cuckoo, Electric, French,
checking true running, 71-2 Grandfather and Pendulum
loose cover, 72 clocks
fitting new spring, 72-3 Crocus powder, 22
Benzine as a cleaner, 22 Cuckoo clocks:
Blueing pan, 18, 19 exploration of working, 149-54
use of, 157 dismantling and repairs, 154-5
Bottom plate, 34
Bows, 27
Broaches, 19 D I A L S , removing, 38-9
fouling the minute wheel, 39
scraping, 39-40
C A N N O N P I N I O N , 34 cleaning, 49-50
slipping, 40 enamel repairs, 63
removing, 43-4 gold and silver repairs, 63-5
Cases, sealing, 56 Demagnetizers, 114-15
pocket watch, 56 Draw, the, 40, 84-7, 89
wristwatch, 109-10 Drilling, 28
174
INDEX 175