r/watchmaking • u/Visible-Chapter-9568 • 4h ago
Anyone know where stem release on this is?
Never done this with a square face as I’m quite new to this but pls let me know in comments
r/watchmaking • u/[deleted] • Aug 18 '24
While this list is not exhaustive, and any suggestions can be posted in the comments, it will include some of the common places watchmakers and technicians get their tools and equipment from.
United States:
- Esslinger: https://www.esslinger.com/
United Kingdom:
- H.S. Walsh: https://www.hswalsh.com/
- Cousins UK: https://www.cousinsuk.com/
Switzerland:
- Asco: https://www.schurch-asco.com/
Germany:
- Boley: https://www.boley.de/en
- Beco-Technic: https://www.beco-technic.com/en/
Australia:
- Labanda: https://www.labanda.com.au/
r/watchmaking • u/Imawatchmakerokciao • Aug 16 '24
Hello all,
I’m excited to announce that I’ve taken over this sub from an inactive top mod who collected subreddits but knew nothing about watchmaking. Things are about to change, and I’m here to make sure this community becomes what it was always meant to be.
Here’s what you can expect moving forward:
1. Stickied Posts:
We’ll have important resources and discussions pinned at the top to make sure everyone has easy access to valuable information.
2. Updated Rules and Stricter Moderation:
New rules are coming, along with stricter enforcement—no reps allowed. This isn’t Reptime anymore. We’ll be focusing on quality content that respects the craft of watchmaking.
3. Verified Flairs:
To recognize and highlight the expertise within our community, we’re introducing Verified Watchmaker flairs. If you’re a professional or someone who assists watchmakers, apply for your flair and stand out as a trusted voice in the community.
4. A Community for All:
Whether you’re a seasoned watchmaker, a hobbyist tinkering in your spare time, a lackey helping out, or a complete noob just learning the ropes—this is your space. I want everyone here to coexist, share knowledge, and support each other.
5. More Engagement:
Expect regular updates, feedback threads, and community events. Your input is crucial, and I want to make sure this sub reflects what you want it to be.
Your Feedback Matters:
I want to hear from you! Drop your thoughts, suggestions, and concerns in the comments below. Your feedback will help shape the future of this subreddit, so don’t hesitate to share what you think.
This is just the beginning. Let’s work together to build a vibrant, knowledgeable, and supportive community.
I will welcome any comments or thoughts below on the direction you would like to see the sub go
Cheers,
U/imawatchmakerokciao
Top Moderator
r/watchmaking • u/Visible-Chapter-9568 • 4h ago
Never done this with a square face as I’m quite new to this but pls let me know in comments
r/watchmaking • u/SteakLarge7658 • 4h ago
Has anyone built (or tried to build) a custom chrono dial? Any luck sourcing the smaller dial features for the complications? Really not finding much out there. I’m thinking my best option is using a brass blank and laser engraving but any advice would be appreciated.
r/watchmaking • u/canteve • 6h ago
I have this Akribboss XXIV AK446SS that runs great, but it got cloudy inside.
I'd like to remove the movement so that I can clear out the cloudy film, but I can't figure out how to get the stem and crown to release.
Can anyone provide any guidance or point me in the right direction?
r/watchmaking • u/durrrl • 5h ago
Bottom line up front: Does this movement come out the front or back?
I just got this Waltham in the mail today. It looks great inside and out and sets time but doesn’t work and I knew that before I got it. There is no resistance while winding which is leading me to thinking it’s a broken mainspring. I’m excited to take on this (2nd) project and what I will learn (what kind of movement is it (all I know is 17 jewel though it does look generic, how to re-lume hands, etc.). But before I look for ANY excuse to buy new tools, do you all know if this movement drops out the back or comes out dial side? I see the mounting screws but haven’t attempted to take it out yet (kids are still awake). I’m just trying to plan ahead. Thank you!
r/watchmaking • u/dumbstupidsillyhead • 21h ago
Hello friends and foes, as the title says i am looking for a couple books on mechanical movement design. Wanting to learn why certain design decisions are made, evolution, trade offs, etc.
Thanks!
r/watchmaking • u/MrFreakYT • 15h ago
I have recently purchased a used but services ETA 2892 movement because it seemed like a good deal, I have a watch with an asian clone so I though I might replace it now or in the future.
What's the best way to store the movement over a longer period of time to prevent damage or th eneed of it having to be services again? Should I just let it run out of power and keep it in an airtight container?
r/watchmaking • u/sacabonos • 22h ago
I've been toying with the idea of creating a Pac-Man-themed watch and wanted to get some advice. The concept is to have Pac-Man on the seconds hand, creating the illusion of him eating dots as it moves, making the dots illuminate in the dark may be cool as well.
Does anyone know where I could source micro-sized Pac-Man figures and how do I make the dots illuminate.
r/watchmaking • u/jcoffin1981 • 1d ago
My colleagues know I collect and repair mainly vintage watches a hobby and I have performed a few minor repairs for them. In this example here, a doctor's son dropped the watch. The hands came off, but what blows my mind is that the lettering and the logo came off of the dial, but the indices are still intact. This is so bizarre to me.
I have not opened this up yet, but assuming the quartz movement checks out ok, how do I re-secure the letters and logo to the dial? What materials do you use- epoxy, cement, cyanoacrylate? How is it applied? Do I use fine #5 tweezers or maybe a sewing needle to place the tiny things?
Sorry, didn't attach photo
r/watchmaking • u/spacekadebt • 3d ago
In my limited experience, I've seen a few mineral glass and acrylic loupes. Other than acrylic scratching easier, is there any major (or minor) difference? I can only tell the difference by tooth tapping or scribing. Seems the same. I currently have some Ali Baba specials. Acrylic loupes. ×5 & ×10. I recently ordered a replacement set of Eschenbach loupes. Any advice or comments are welcome. Thanks
r/watchmaking • u/ink-pen2 • 4d ago
I got the opportunity to laser some watch dials for my y12 major work, I still got some finishing left to do but I think they turned out pretty good
r/watchmaking • u/HKoch2004 • 5d ago
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Hi guys! I’m working on a older skin diver, and today I just noticed that the watch works when dial down but not when dial up. Is this top pivot on the balance worn or possibly bent?
r/watchmaking • u/davinium_customs • 6d ago
About 4 hours of work. 3 hours blanking it out and one hour crossing out the one corner. I suppose it’ll be around 8 hours total to have everything sized, then I don’t know how long to shape the spoke contours. Overall, progress is good, adjustments have been made, and this one will be better than the last!
r/watchmaking • u/HKoch2004 • 5d ago
Hi guys! I just started disassembling this Bulova 23 jewel AOACD movement, and I made a slight mistake. When taking the automatic works apart, I didn’t realize there were springs pushing up on some of the gears. Things went flying. Luckily they didn’t get very far! Am I right to believe that this is how it goes back together?
r/watchmaking • u/Unfair_Department122 • 5d ago
Hi all, getting into watchmaking the classic way of not wanting to pay $500 + for a service. The watch in question: Zodiac Astrographic SST. Absolutely love the watch and had it die on my recently, the culprit: sealed mainspring barrel. I was able to purchase a new retrofit from a reputable swiss company and am ready to go about reassembling after I get everything cleaned. I have a supply of the classic 5 lineup from Moebius (9010, 9104, 9415, 8200, TH7-SC) but need some pointers of what to put specifically and where.
I also do not have V105 for my reversing wheels and am wondering if there is an alternative to get those dip lubricated? I was reading you can cut certain lubes and do a full dip like you would with V105, problem is I have the small small after market bottles of the stuff so that might be out of the question.
Any info would be greatly appreciated!
r/watchmaking • u/csxxnk • 6d ago
Hey everyone,
I’m getting into restoring vintage watches, specifically pre-1960s models, which were mostly brass cases with a nickel-plated finish. I already know the basics—polishing, cleaning, and prepping the surface—but I’m new to electroplating and want to make sure I get it right.
I found this nickel plating kit for €120, which includes: • Nickel plating solution (“Free-Nickel”) • 2x nickel anodes • Power supply (3A, 5A, or 10A options) • Wiring, alligator clips, and a large tub
My questions:
1️⃣ Will a 3A power supply be enough for small watch cases and case backs? Or should I go for 5A for better consistency? 2️⃣ Do I need to copper plate first, or can I go straight to nickel on brass? (Since most vintage watches were just nickel-plated, I assume copper isn’t necessary, but I want to be sure.) 3️⃣ Any tips on getting an even, smooth finish? I want the plating to last and look factory-fresh.
Appreciate any advice from those experienced with electroplating or vintage watch restoration!
r/watchmaking • u/N0tfars • 6d ago
Hi! Found these tiny markings on the case of the watch, i believe its some sort of markings from a watchmaker/service.....but does anyone know exactly, and how to read and understand them?🙈 Thanks!
r/watchmaking • u/aFallap • 7d ago
I’m having trouble setting the train wheels and pallet forks, any tips or advice?
r/watchmaking • u/HorologistMason • 8d ago
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Just sharing a video of my progress- I know it's not perfect, but definitely a good step in the right direction. Much straighter satin lines for sure now. I've been refinishing for almost 4 months now, and am excited to keep progressing 💪
r/watchmaking • u/MJDESANTIS • 7d ago
Hi folks! Happy Friday!
I have an opportunity to pick up this staking set as an addition to my hobbiest tool collection.
I can't find any info on this particular model online, hence this inquiry.
I noticed that some of the parts (anvils?) appear to be missing. I'm not sure what their exact use might be, or if they're critical to the overall functionality of this set?
Does anyone know if the missing parts could be purchased separately?
Finally, what is a fair price for this set in its current state?
r/watchmaking • u/HKoch2004 • 7d ago
Hi guys! I’m working on a Elgin Grade 87 currently and I’m not sure if this jewel should be replaced. To me it looks like it has a crack or chip in it. What do you think? Where could I buy a new jewel (lower hole jewel) for it?
r/watchmaking • u/sailriteultrafeed • 8d ago
Im planning to purchase a YAG laser spot welder as an addition/upgrade to my PUK5. The ebay seller sent me thier manual and spec sheet and they look decent have a decent name brand laser module but obviously you get what you pay for. I expect the lens and probably everything else in it to be cheapest possible but has anyone tried one? Is it good enough?
r/watchmaking • u/Intrepid_Bobcat4579 • 8d ago
r/watchmaking • u/davinium_customs • 9d ago
Finished the wheel, and tried to anodize. Ran into a few issues with chemicals here in canada having different compositions than the USA’s. At some point, one of the spokes cracked. Oh well, back to the beginning! At the least, I can use this broken one to test anodizing on 😅
r/watchmaking • u/DeosKR • 8d ago
I found that Wostep Switzerland offers two kinds of watchmaker course;
Customer service watchmaker, which has 12 months of duration, and Watchmaker, which has 22 months of duration.
I wish I could apply and attend the 2-year course, because I'd love to dive into the deep, fundamental trades of watchmaking as well.
However, because of some concerns related to finances and schedule issues, I wonder if I can keep pursuing 'further,' especially in micromechanics(lathe and similar like that) after the 1-year course as well.
What do you think? I don't think the 1 year course comprises shallow depths, but it seems there would be certain differences.
Does 1 year course also offer study about micromechanics? And if so, what could be the fundamental differences compared to the 2-year course?
r/watchmaking • u/Distinct-Tear8568 • 9d ago
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A tool I made in a few hours using some brass pipes and some 3d printed parts. It’s adjustable in up down in and out. This just a rough idea of what I want to hopefully make in all brass some day. Let me know if anyone has any designs to share. Thank you.