11. One pivot having excessive side shake and the opposite close
fitting.
12. Escape or pallet pivots bent or damaged.
13. Balance end stone pitted or badly out of flat.
14. Over coil rubbing outside coil, at point where it curves over
spring.
15. Balance arm or screw touching pallet bridge.
16. Balance screw out too far, touching bridge or train wheel.
17. Safety roller rubbing dial plate or jewel setting.
18. Fork rubbing impulse roller.
19. Guard pin rubbing edge of safety roller.
20. Roller jewel long and rubs guard pin.
47. _Short Motion Generally Indicates Where to Find Trouble._
Any of the above irregularities will cause a variation in motion
between dial up and dial down and invariably the trouble will be
found on the side which has the shorter motion. For instance, a pivot
that is flat or rough on the end will cause a shorter motion, when it
is down, than will the opposite pivot when it is down, provided that
its end is slightly rounded and highly polished. The same is true when
the oil is gummy or dirty in one jewel and the opposite jewel is clean
and freshly oiled.
Capped escape or pallet pivots when flat or rough on one end have the
same effect to a lesser degree.
It is never proper to make the end of a pivot flat or rough and
thereby shorten and equalize the motion. Neither should the ends of
both balance pivots be flattened at any time. On the contrary, the
ends of pivots should always be slightly rounded and highly polished:
there is no logical reason for having them otherwise.
48. _Short Motion Sometimes Caused by Burr on Opposite Pivot._
There are occasionally instances where a poor motion on one pivot is
caused by a slight burr on the opposite pivot. This is usually due to
the fact that while the burred pivot is running on its own end stone,
there is space enough between the end stone and jewel to give the burr
clearance, but when the position of the watch is reversed, the balance
end shake allowance causes the burr to rub on the top of jewel hole
and prevents perfect freedom of motion when the good pivot is
downward.
49. _Examining the Hairspring._
The hairspring may be true and level but it should be carefully
examined to see that there is no possibility of touching at any point.
The observation should take place during the full arc of motion of the
balance, for there are some instances in which no rubbing takes place
until the motion accelerates. The watch should be held at different
angles and the space between the balance arm and spring, and the stud
and spring, closely scrutinized for possible contact. The space
between the spring and over coil at the point where the over coil
rises and curves over the spring should be at least equal to the width
of the coils and care should be taken to see that the over coil just
before the point of rising has the usual space between it and the next
coil. Either position in which the hairspring may rub will have a
shorter motion and a gain in time compared to the opposite position in
which there is no interference.
50. _Exceptions in Regard to Gaining Rate and Short Motion._
Invariably the arc of motion which is the shortest will gain time
compared to the opposite position which has a longer motion. There
are, however, some few instances in which there are exceptions to this
rule, and knowledge of these exceptions is quite valuable in
preventing confusion and doubtfulness in the certainty of making
specific alterations. As an example in the horizontal positions; if
both end stones are perfect and the freedom of one pivot in the jewel
is correct while the opposite pivot has entirely too much freedom, the
motion may be somewhat shorter with the proper fitting pivot downward
while the rate may be slower compared to the opposite position. This
is caused by the balance describing a larger circle when the large
hole jewel is upward, as the pivot is allowed to travel a greater
distance from the center of the hole as it wavers from side to side
during the oscillations.
When the watch is reversed the weight of the balance prevents the
pivot from wobbling in the large hole and eliminates the possibility
of compensating for the larger circle described by the balance in the
opposite position.
The same results are possible when the freedom of both pivots is
correct and when one end stone is pitted, as the pit in the stone
causes a short motion when downward and prevents the pivot from
having any side play whatever, while the opposite pivot enjoys full
play to whatever freedom there may be and through this causing a
somewhat larger circle to be described by the balance and a slower
rate in time.
It should be understood that this does not refer to instances where
the end stone surface is merely slightly worn, but to pittings in
which the surface of the stone has been actually pierced. In most
instances of slight wear the motion will be shorter and the rate fast
which conforms to the general rule covering rate and motion.
51. _Detailed Practice._
For preliminary practice in position adjusting, select a watch of
about 17 jewels which has just been cleaned and put in order to the
best of one's ability.
Regulate it so that it will time within ten seconds in twenty-four
hours. Then run it dial up for twenty-four hours and make a notation
as to the number of seconds either fast or slow. Next run it dial down
for twenty-four hours and make note of the number of seconds fast or
slow in this position. If there is a variation in time between the two
positions it will be found that the position having the faster rate of
the two will also have a shorter arc of motion.[B]
The exact arc of motion in each position can be known by observing the
arms of the balance and comparing the extent of the arc with some
point on the pallet bridge.
A variation of one-eighth of an inch in motion will generally make a
difference of four or five seconds in the rate and greater variations
will make corresponding increases in the difference.
When a watch is in good order a correct motion for the horizontal
positions is generally considered to be that of one and one-half turn,
which consists of three-quarters of a revolution of the balance in
each direction.
Should the motion be very much below this, in both positions, there
may be something wrong with the general condition of the watch or
possibly there may be a weak mainspring at fault, or an imitation
spring that is too long and thick may take up too much room in the
barrel and cause poor motion as surely as will one that is two weak.
Assuming, however, that the motion is good in one position and drops
off in the other, it is quite probable that only an ordinary position
correction will be required and the immediate problem to be considered
is that of causing the short arc of motion to accelerate enough to
equal the longer arc. The precise correction required will most
probably be found among the causes listed in No. 46, this Chapter.
52. _Which Rate to Use as the Unit for Comparison._
The horizontal position which has the slower rate of the two should be
considered as the unit which is correct and it will always have the
longer motion of the two, barring the occasional exception as
described in No. 50.
This longer arc of motion is universally due to a better condition,
while the shorter motion indicates that something is wrong, and it
should always be the aim of the adjuster to improve some condition
that is below standard, rather than to make some good condition a
little worse in order to equalize the rates.
It may be possible to equalize horizontal rates by flattening the ends
of pivots, but it does not require much more time to improve the
motion in one position than it does to make it a little worse in
another. The advantage is all one way and results either good or bad
depend entirely upon the viewpoint of the worker and how he applies
himself to the situation.
53. _Damaged Pivots, Pitted End Stones and Methods of Correction._
In the examination of pivots, end stones and jewels, it is necessary
to use a stronger glass than the one used for ordinary work.
Damaged pivots can often be detected by looking through the end stone
with a strong glass while the balance is moving. If imperfect they
will appear dark or display a slight waver or flash and if they are in
good condition they will appear bright and seem to stand still. They
can also be examined in the lathe and a good true enclosed balance
chuck is of immense value in detecting burrs, chipped edges, rings on
the sides, slight bends and poorly shaped ends. The complete balance
and spring can be inserted and the pivots can be refinished without
disturbing the roller or hairspring. The chuck should be revolving
very slowly when making the examination and moving the belt with the
hand will enable one to see more than can be seen when the lathe is
running at regular speed. Some watchmakers use small bow lathes for
examining and finishing pivots, or the Jacot lathe, which is excellent
for this kind of work. An end stone that has been deeply pitted should
always be discarded and a new one supplied. If the hole is very
slight, however, it can be removed entirely and the surface of the
stone re-polished on a lap charged with No. 5 diamond powder, but the
stone and setting should be thoroughly cleansed by brushing and
pithing before replacement.
Should a slight particle of diamond or any other hard stone powder
possibly remain on the stone or in the bezel it might eventually enter
the end of pivot and again cause pitting. In case that the end stone
is of the type that is flat and highly polished on both sides, such as
is usually found on detachable dome foreign watches, it can be punched
out with a piece of brass wire or peg wood and replaced in reverse
position, after which the bezel can be closed and the stone will be
just as serviceable as a new one.
Pivots that have been running on pitted end stones are generally rough
on the end which is charged with some hard substance. They require
special treatment to remove the cause of the pitting and the following
method of refinishing is very good. Place the balance in the lathe and
draw a soft Arkansas oil stone over the end of pivot with pressure
enough to remove a bit of the metal. This will drag out any hard
particles that may be lodged in the end and after this has been done
the pivot should be pithed clean and polished with a smooth hard steel
burnisher covered with oil.
A hard stone such as sapphire or jasper, or a steel burnisher should
not be used on the pivot until the Arkansas stone has first done its
work, because a hard instrument of this description will force the
small particles that cause the pitting further into the end of the
pivot instead of removing them entirely.
A pivot that has been treated in this way will not pit the end stone a
second time unless carelessness in the use of hard powder permits
additional particles to come in contact with the pivot or end stone.
There are some instances in which the steel is highly carbonized but
manufacturers generally use the best steel obtainable for balance
staffs and excessive carbon can generally be detected with a
magnifying glass. Free use of diamond powder and emery wheel dust are
more often responsible. The holes of jewels should never be enlarged
or polished with diamond powder after the jewels have once been placed
in their permanent settings, as this allows the powder to lodge
between the jewel and the setting where it cannot be removed by
cleaning but where it will be drawn out by the oil and charge any
pivot that may be run in the jewel. The grey powder in such instances
may be seen through the top of jewel with a strong glass.
FOOTNOTES:
[Footnote B: Note Exceptions in No. 50.]
CHAPTER XII
PRELIMINARY NOTES AND PRACTICE ON VERTICAL CORRECTIONS
54. _Five Principal Causes and Corrections for Pendant Up Variation._
The first of the vertical positions to be considered is that of
Pendant Up and to understand the causes of and corrections for
variations in this position completes what is known as three position
adjusting.
The usual causes of variation in the pendant up position as compared
to the horizontal positions are as follows.
Poor Motion Pendant Up.
Regulator Pins not properly adjusted.
Balance not in poise.
Hairspring not in circle.
Hairspring not pinned at proper point.
55. _Poor Motion, Cause and Effect._
Among these causes that of Poor Motion covers a number of troubles
such as roller jewel rubbing in fork, guard pin rubbing roller, strong
lock on the escapement, or no lock on some teeth.
Such causes may not prevent close rating between the horizontal
positions because of non-interference until the position of the watch
is changed.
The pendant up motion should therefore be the first vertical point of
investigation and if at fault the cause should be eliminated. In this
connection it should not be expected that the arc of motion in the
pendant up or any other vertical position will be as long as it will
be in the horizontal positions, for when a watch is in excellent
condition in every particular the vertical arcs are always
approximately one-fourth of a turn shorter than the horizontal.
This is due to frictions and is impossible of correction and therefore
should not be confused with a poor motion of greater extent which has
removable causes that are practical of execution.
A good motion is to be considered as one of the results to be expected
in overhauling and putting a watch in good order and it should not be
understood that it is particularly to be associated with adjusting
only, nor should any watch be slighted in cleaning and assembling with
the idea that adjusting will correct it in a few minutes' time. On the
other hand it should be understood as fundamental that no watch can be
a close time keeper unless it has a good motion and no good adjuster
will attempt to obtain close time in one position or a close rate in
different positions until the motion is first what it should be. If it
is what it should be, about ninety per cent of the necessary work
required for obtaining close position rates will have been completed.
56. _Regulator Pin Practice for Pendant Up Variation._
When the watch is in reasonably satisfactory condition and a three
position test proves that the pendant up position has a variation of
from ten to twenty seconds either fast or slow compared to the
horizontal positions, the regulator pins may be the first point of
examination. If there is considerable vibration of the coil between
them, and the pendant rate is slow, it will be necessary to close the
pins and if the rate is fast and the pins are found to be closed so
that there is no vibration of the coil, it will be necessary to spread
them slightly. Closing the pins will of course make the general timing
of the watch faster and spreading them will make it slower and
therefore it will be necessary to regulate the watch for one or two
seconds per hour before again testing it in positions. The result of
either operation, however, will be to cause the rate in the pendant up
position to conform more closely to the horizontal rates.
Preliminary and profitable two position experiments can be made
between dial up and pendant up, by having the pins closed on most any
watch that is in good order and timing it within five or ten seconds
in twenty-four hours, then rating it in these two positions. Next
spread the pins slightly, re-time the watch and rate it in the same
two positions and compare the variations. A few experiments of this
description will soon demonstrate as to the extent of correction that
can be obtained in this way.[C] The rule of equal vibration of the
coil between the pins after they have been spread must be rigidly
enforced.
57. _Pendant Up Corrections Through Poise of Balance._
Assuming that the motion and regulator pins seem to be satisfactory,
the next point of investigation should be the poise of balance. The
hairspring should be removed and the pivots known to be straight and
polished before testing. The rollers are of course a part of the
balance and are not to be removed. A perfectly poised balance can be
stopped at any point on the tool and it should at least remain
stationary at each of the four quarters of its circumference. No. 28,
Chapter VII, should be consulted for details on poise corrections.
58. _Concentricity of the Hairspring._
The next point of consideration may be the concentricity of the
hairspring, and it is quite important that the spring be centered as
nearly perfect as the trained eye can determine. Any unusual pressure
of the spring in one direction will cause undue friction and a fast
rate compared to the opposite direction.
There are several easy tests for determining as to how nearly the
spring may be centered. One of these is to look straight down upon the
spring and examine the space between the coils that extend beyond the
circumference of the dome. This test may be made in three ways, one
with the balance at rest, one with the coils of the spring wound up
and the third with the coils unwound. With the balance at rest and the
spring centered there will be the same space between the coils all
around as though the spring were out of the watch entirely and laying
on the bench.
If it is not properly centered there will be more space between the
coils on one side than there will be on the opposite. The same
conditions will be apparent when the spring is wound up, although the
coils will all be nearer to each other than they were with the balance
at rest, and when they are unwound the coils will all be farther apart
with the same apparent difference on opposite sides when the centering
is not correct.
The winding and unwinding of the spring is alternating and almost
instantaneous, as the balance oscillates from one extreme to the
other. For observation of the spring when it is wound or unwound it is
necessary to stop the balance with the finger or camel's hair brush as
it reaches its extreme arc of motion, then hold it stationary for a
few seconds while the space between the coils is being examined. The
balance should then be allowed to swing to the opposite extreme, when
it should again be held for examination of the coils. In one of these
extremes the coils will be wound and in the other they will be unwound
and after a few experiments in stopping and starting the balance it
will be found that the entire examination will not require over ten
seconds' time.
When the spring is not properly centered the reason is of course
found in some curve of the over coil and the most usual point at fault
is the section or curve on which the regulator pins act. If the coils
open too wide on the side where the regulator pins are located this
section of the coil will be too near the center and should be moved
outward, possibly equal to one-half or one full space of the coils. If
the coils are too close on the side where the pins are it will
probably be found that the section requires shifting toward the center
slightly. The balance should be removed from the watch in either
instance and the coil circled with the over-coiling tweezer, although
experienced workmen can frequently make excellent corrections with a
fine pointed tweezer without removing the balance.
Finely adjusted watches will always be found to have springs as nearly
perfectly centered as it is possible for expert workmen to get them
and it is quite interesting and instructive to observe the vibration
of a perfect spring by any one interested in the work.
Some watchmakers center the spring on the balance cock before it is
staked on the balance and very good results can be obtained in this
way. The balance cock is placed on the bench in the inverted position
which makes it easy to locate the point or curve requiring alteration.
59. _Correcting Pendant Up Variation Through Pinning Point
Alterations._
Should most careful investigation of the condition of the watch
indicate that the Motion, Regulator Pins, Poise of Balance and
Centering of the Hairspring as well as the general condition of the
watch are satisfactory and the rating show that there is still
considerable variation between the horizontal positions and the
pendant up position there is still one source through which positive
correction may be obtained.
This refers to the relative positions of the collet and stud pinning
points which is defined with explanatory cuts and formula in Chapter
VIII.
60. _Percentage of Watches Requiring Correction of Position Rates._
In constructing this chapter and the preceding one it has been
preferred to go into detail for the purpose of defining the possible
corrections and alterations, together with the results to be expected.
Not every watch demanding position correction would require the extent
of investigation and possible alteration that is pointed out and in
most instances the direct cause will be disclosed with very little
investigation. In fact, the experienced adjuster can tell almost
immediately where to look for trouble by merely observing the position
rate as entered on the card.
It should also be clearly understood by the student that when the
repairing and cleaning of high grade watches is done by one who
understands the details of adjusting, there will be only a very small
proportion of the watches requiring position corrections. As a rule
among experienced adjusters there will be about seventy per cent of
the watches that will have very close rates. If, therefore, one
hundred watches are put in order and tested in positions there should
be seventy that do not require any correction, while about thirty will
require either minor or major alteration. The time required for making
alterations on this thirty per cent of the watches will be offset by a
smaller percentage of unsatisfactory returns and a better reputation
for doing good work.
FOOTNOTES:
[Footnote C: See Chapter IX, on Regulator Pin Alterations.]
CHAPTER XIII
CONCRETE EXAMPLES SHOWING DEFINITE THREE POSITION ALTERATIONS AND
LABOR UTILIZED
61. _Order of Position Timing and Method of Calculating the
Variation._
In submitting the previous chapters it is assumed that the average
ambitious watchmaker will gain enough knowledge from the various
details to enable him to understand the meaning of the adjustment of
watches, the causes of variations and the principal alterations for
obtaining corrections.
There are many features covered that will enable him to develop in
practice and to experiment in individual points of importance, without
running up against mathematical deductions that halt and discourage
further interest in the subject.
To understand the principles constitutes a large percentage of the
qualifications required and to be able to execute the practical
alterations and corrections required in different kinds of variations
completes the general qualifications. It would hardly be sufficient,
however, to conclude the work at this point without giving more
definite examples for comparison, together with some indication as to
the approximate time that may ordinarily be utilized in doing the work
and also showing some instances of a possible choice of several
alterations and why a particular alteration is advisable. For this
reason the following examples will be found to have an important part
in fulfilling the mission of this book.
In selecting these examples the fineness of results has not been the
principal consideration. The deciding factor was the differences in
variation and alterations, and the fact that they cover the widest
field for general instruction that could be selected from hundreds of
equally good rates among various models of watches which, with three
exceptions, were put in order for railroad service.
The method of computing the variation from one position to any other
is similar to that used in temperature adjusting as described in
Chapter 3, No. 13. The watch should first be timed closely and then
rated for twenty-four hours in each position. It should be wound
before being started in each position but should be set only on the
first day so that the time is never disturbed.
The first position to be rated is universally Dial Up, then in
succession Dial Down, Pendant Up, Pendant Right and Pendant Left. The
daily total number of seconds fast or slow should be entered in the
first column of the rate card after each twenty-four hours run. This
column then constitutes the progressive rate from which the actual
variation between the different positions is ascertained.
The figure in the upper square is first carried out to the adjoining
column at its full value and then the difference between this figure
and that of the second square is entered in the second square of
second column, and so on until the difference between each of the
succeeding squares of first column is registered in the second column.
If the figure in a square of first column is greater than that in the
preceding square the carried out figure would be entered in second
column as + If the figure is less than the preceding square it would
be carried out as-.
The total variation in positions is obtained from the figures entered
in second column. If these figures are all entered as either plus or
minus it is necessary to merely subtract the lesser figure from the
greater. If, however, some figures are entered as plus and others as
minus it will be necessary to add the greater figure of each of the
two denominations.
62. _Example No. 1, Three Positions._
Columbus, No. 358846, Open Face, 17 Jewels.
Repairs Made. New balance staff, two balance screws changed,
hairspring trued and cleaned.
After timing the watch closely it was tested in three positions and
found to have a variation of eleven seconds fast pendant up as per
second column, Fig. 16.
Fig. 16
+--------------------------------------------------+
| No. _358846_ Make _Columbus_ |
+--------+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+
| D U | + 1 | + 1 | + 4 | + 4 | | | P |
+--------+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+ |
| D D | 0 | - 1 | + 7 | + 3 | | | |
+--------+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+ |
| P U | +10 | +10 | +14 | + 7 | | | |
+--------+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+
11 4
Investigation showed the hairspring to be pinned nearly correct, true
level and in circle; balance true; regulator pins closed and motion
satisfactory. A correction could have been made in one of several
ways; either by making a slight alteration of the pinning point at the
collet; correcting a possible slight error in poise or by slightly
spreading the regulator pins.
As the extent of variation did not indicate any serious error at any
particular point for a watch of this description the possible poise
error and the slight variation in the pinning point were waived and
the regulator pins were spread just enough so that slight equal
vibration of the coil could be seen with a double eyeglass. After this
alteration the mean time was found to be one second per hour slow
which was corrected on the mean time screws and the next test showed
that the variation had been reduced to four second as per fourth
column, Fig. 16. The time consumed in making the alteration aside from
the repairing was less than ten minutes.
63. _Example No. 2, Three Positions._
Ball No. B060816, Open Face, 17 Jewels.
Repairs made. Refinished balance pivots and cleaned. The first test in
positions disclosed a variation of thirty-five seconds as per second
column Fig. 17.
Investigation found the balance true; hairspring true, level and
circle; regulator pins very nearly closed and the motion one and
one-eighth turn. This rate like example No. 1, was also fast in the
pendant up position, but the greater extent of the error indicated
that there must be some serious poise error, and upon investigation
this was found to be the case. A screw on the roller jewel side or at
the bottom when the balance was at rest was found to be heavy. This
was corrected and the next test showed a much improved rate although
there was still a variation of eight seconds fast pendant up as per
fourth column Fig. 17.
Fig. 17
+--------------------------------------------------+
| No. _B060816_ Make _Ball_ |
+--------+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+
| D U | + 2 | + 2 | + 7 | + 7 | + 7 | + 7 | P |
+--------+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+ |
| D D | + 2 | 0 | +14 | + 7 | +14 | + 7 | |
+--------+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+ |
| P U | +37 | +35 | +29 | +15 | +24 | +10 | |
+--------+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+
35 8 3
A better rate than this was desired and further examination proved
that the locking of the pallet stones and escape teeth was quite
strong and caused the pendant up motion to have a shorter arc than
would have been entirely desirable. An alteration was made by pushing
the receiving stone further back into the slot and rebanking the
escapement. The third position test showed an improved motion and a
variation of three seconds as per sixth column. The total time
required for making the alterations was about three quarters of an
hour.
64. _Example No. 3, Three Positions._
Elgin No. 7457488. Open Face, 21 Jewels.
Repairs made. Cleaned; polished pivots and new mainspring fitted. The
first position test showed a variation of nineteen seconds as per
second column, Fig. 18.
It will be noted that this example differs from Nos. 1 and 2, in that
the rate is slow in the pendant up position. Examination showed all
points satisfactory except that the regulator pins were spread
considerably and allowed too much freedom of vibration for the coil.
Had this vibration been slight it would have been advisable to examine
the poise. As it was considerable, however, the alteration made was to
close the pins so that only slight vibration was visible with a strong
glass.
Fig. 18
+--------------------------------------------------+
| No. _7457488_ Make _Elgin_ |
+--------+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+
| D U | - 9 | - 9 | + 5 | + 5 | | | P |
+--------+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+ |
| D D | -18 | - 9 | + 8 | + 3 | | | |
+--------+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+ |
| P U | -46 | -28 | + 9 | + 1 | | | |
+--------+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+
19 4
This watch was not equipped with mean time screws and it was therefore
necessary to fit a pair of thin timing washers because closing the
pins caused a gaining rate of two seconds per hour in the mean time.
The next position test showed a variation of four seconds as per
fourth column Fig. 18.
The time consumed in making the alteration and fitting the washers was
about ten minutes.
65. _Example No. 4, Three Positions._
Hampden No. 1438676, Open Face, 21 Jewels.
Repairs made. New balance staff and hole jewel fitted and cleaned.
The first position test showed a variation of twelve seconds slow
pendant up as per second column Fig. 19.
Fig. 19
+--------------------------------------------------+
| No. _1438676_ Make _Hampden |
+--------+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+
| D U | + 2 | + 2 | + 2 | + 2 | | | P |
+--------+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+ |
| D D | + 4 | + 2 | + 6 | + 4 | | | |
+--------+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+ |
| P U | - 6 | -10 | + 9 | + 3 | | | |
+--------+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+
12 2
Investigation found all points such as balance true, hairspring true,
level and circle and the regulator pins reasonably satisfactory. The
motion, however, was not as good as it should have been when the
spring was nearly wound up. It was let down to where it would
ordinarily be after about twenty-hours run and found to have barely
one turn pendant up and a trifle over one turn in the flat positions.
This proved that the motion was not satisfactory for a watch that had
just been put in order and all pivots were examined for close end or
side shake; they were found to be satisfactory and the mainspring was
removed for examination and found to be somewhat set and about 0.01
mm. thinner than those generally used for this grade watch. A new
mainspring was fitted and the motion was improved by about one-fourth
of a turn and the next position test showed a variation of two seconds
as per fourth column Fig. 19. The time consumed in examination and
changing the mainspring was about twenty-five minutes.
The three position limit of variation allowed by most manufacturers
and railroad inspectors is seven seconds from one position to any
other. Records of thousands of watches on which the work has been
carefully done in putting the watches in order, show that about
seventy per cent of the watches will rate within five seconds in the
three positions without making alterations and that only ten per cent
will be close to the limit of seven seconds, while about twenty per
cent will require alterations such as shown in the four examples
above. (See Chapter XII, No. 60.)
One or two more examples might be introduced to show variations and
corrections between dial up and dial down; this feature has been
pretty well covered however in Chapter XI, and five position example
No. 9 also shows a variation of the horizontal rates with correction.
CHAPTER XIV
CONCRETE EXAMPLES SHOWING DEFINITE FIVE POSITION ALTERATIONS AND LABOR
UTILIZED
66. _What Five Position Adjusting Consists of--Detailed Allowances._
Five position adjusting consists of a further refinement of the
condition of the watch. The fact that a very close rate is shown in
the first three positions is not an indication that the watch will be
an excellent timepiece under all conditions.
In fact there are instances where there may be an excellent three
position rate and a further test in the pendant right and left
positions may disclose some error that would positively prevent close
timing in service. Even under the five position test the limit of
allowance must be reasonably close or unfavorable conditions may exist
and cause irregularity in timing.
A popular allowance for very fine watches among Swiss and some
American manufacturers is six seconds variation for the five positions
as an extreme limit, and for medium high grades ten seconds extreme
variation is considered a fair allowance. These allowances are
graduated, however, and a six seconds extreme allowance watch would
have an allowance not exceeding three seconds in the horizontal
positions, with two seconds additional in the pendant up position and
one second additional in either the pendant right or pendant left
positions.
Watches having an extreme allowance of ten seconds may be permitted to
have not more than five seconds variation between the two horizontal
positions, with two seconds additional for the pendant up position
and still three seconds additional in either the pendant right or left
positions.
It will be noted that there is considerable difference between six or
ten second allowances of this description and straight limits of six
or ten seconds.
Some manufacturers have greater limits of allowance, sometimes as
great as twenty-five seconds for the five positions, but as a rule the
first three positions are required to rate within seven seconds and
the difference of eighteen seconds is divided between the right and
left positions.
Under limits of this description a watch that would not be tolerated
under the six or ten seconds class would be considered as good.
Watches having such large allowances, however, and rating close to the
limit are hardly justified in being considered as adjusted to five
positions. The fact that they are so considered however, is the reason
why watchmakers will sometimes fine wide variation in new watches
before they have been damaged or mishandled. The following five
position examples were selected with the same care as were the three
position specimens and will be found to cover a wide field of
variation for comparison with rates that the adjuster may desire to
correct.
67. _Example No. 5._
Hamilton, No. 248027; Open Face, 21 Jewels.
Repairs made. New balance staff and cleaned. The first test in five
positions showed a variation of twenty seconds as per second column
Fig. 20. It will be noted that in four of the positions the rate was
quite close and that the pendant right position had an extremely fast
rate.
A casual investigation indicated that all points relating to the
spring, regulator pins and balance were reasonably satisfactory but
that there was a slight falling off in motion in the pendant right
position. Further investigation of this feature disclosed a slight
striking sound when the watch was held to the ear in this position.
The dial was removed and the bankings were closed to drop whereupon it
was discovered that the fork was long on the inside, or when the
receiving stone was locked on the escape teeth. This prevented the
roller jewel from passing through the fork freely as it did on the
opposite side.
The balance pivots had the limit of allowance for side shake which
aided the cause of the roller jewel in striking.
Fig. 20
+--------------------------------------------------+
| No. _248027_ Make _Hamilton_ |
+--------+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+
| D U | + 1 | + 1 | + 3 | + 3 | | | P |
+--------+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+ |
| D D | + 2 | + 1 | + 7 | + 4 | | | |
+--------+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+ |
| P U | + 4 | + 2 | + 8 | + 1 | | | |
+--------+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+ |
| P R | +22 | +18 | +12 | + 4 | | | |
+--------+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+ |
| P L | +20 | - 2 | + 8 | - 4 | | | |
+--------+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+
20 8
After correcting the roller jewel shake and readjusting the slide and
guard pin freedom the next test showed a variation of eight seconds in
the five positions as per fourth column Fig. 20. The side shake of the
balance pivots was not detrimental after the real cause of the
variation had been removed and therefore no correction was required in
this respect.
If the error in the escapement had not existed and if the watch had
shown the same rate with all points appearing to be satisfactory, the
trouble would most likely have been found in the poise of balance with
the upper side heavy in the pendant right position.
The time consumed in making the correction was about one half hour.
68. _Example No. 6._
Elgin. B. W. Raymond. No. 4,109,543, Open Face, 15 Jewels.
Repairs made. New fourth pinion; new end stone; mainspring; refinished
balance pivots and cleaned. Note that this was only a 15-Jewel watch.
It belonged to a railroad engineer, however, who wanted it placed in
first class condition, as it had not been satisfactory. The first five
position test showed an error of twenty-four seconds as per second
column Fig. 21.
Examination of the motion, pivots, regulator pins, escapement and
poise proved them to be satisfactory.
The hairspring however, was found to be pinned at the slow pendant up
point as per illustration in Fig. 22.
Fig. 21
+--------------------------------------------------+
| No. _4109543_ Make _Elgin_ |
+--------+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+
| D U | + 8 | + 8 | + 2 | + 2 | | | P |
+--------+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+ |
| D D | +16 | + 8 | + 3 | + 1 | | | |
+--------+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+ |
| P U | 0 | -16 | + 2 | - 1 | | | |
+--------+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+
| P R | + 4 | + 4 | - 1 | - 3 | | | |
+--------+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+
| P L | - 1 | - 5 | - 6 | - 5 | | | |
+--------+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+
24 7
The alteration made was to break out one-half of the inner coil at
collet so that it was pinned at the fast point as illustrated in
Fig. 23.
A pair of balance screws were removed and a heavier pair fitted to
correct the mean time, which would have been about ten minutes fast in
twenty-four hours because of shortening the spring.
The balance was repoised and the next test in positions showed a
variation of seven seconds as per fourth column Fig. 21.
The time required for making the alteration was about one half hour.
[Illustration: Fig. 22]
[Illustration: Fig. 23]
This watch was a full plate model with the train developing to the
left from the center and illustrations No. 22 and 23 are given to
show that, while the train follows the Swiss development, the spring
follows the American method and develops to the right from the collet
even though it is located to the left of the watch center. The
principle remains the same as that illustrated by Figs. 9 and 11 and
explained in Chapter VIII.
69. _Example No. 7._
Waltham. No. 10504112. Open Face, Vanguard model, 23 Jewels.
Repairs made. Cleaned and new hole jewel.
First five position test showed a very erratic rate as per second
column Fig. 24.
Investigation proved that the motion dropped off considerably after a
few hours run and that the mainspring was too weak for this grade of
watch. A proper mainspring was fitted which in turn corrected the
motion, but the next test in positions proved that there was still a
variation of eighteen seconds as per fourth column Fig. 24.
Fig. 24
+--------------------------------------------------+
| No. _10504112_ Make _Waltham_ |
+--------+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+
| D U | 0 | 0 | - 2 | - 2 | - 1 | - 1 | P |
+--------+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+ |
| D D | 0 | 0 | - 5 | - 3 | - 1 | 0 | |
+--------+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+ |
| P U | +14 | +14 | -21 | -16 | - 4 | - 3 | |
+--------+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+ |
| P R | + 4 | -10 | -19 | + 2 | - 5 | - 1 | |
+--------+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+ |
| P L | +16 | +12 | -25 | - 6 | - 3 | + 2 | |
+--------+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+
24 18 5
The balance and spring were removed and considerable poise trouble was
discovered. The trouble was at different points of the balance and no
one location seemed to be heavy at all times. The balance pivots were
carefully gauged with a metric micrometer and found to be out of
round, or to be exact, more oval in form than cylindrical. A new staff
with round pivots was fitted, after which the balance was easily
poised and the next test showed a variation of five seconds as per
sixth column Fig. 24. The total time required for making the
examination and alterations was about one hour.
70. _Example No. 8._
Vacheron and Constantin. No. 272,854, Open Face, 21 Jewels.
Repairs made. New balance staff, hole jewel, cap jewel, glass, and
cleaned.
The first test after making the repairs showed a variation of twelve
seconds as per second column Fig. 25.
It will be observed that the rates in the horizontal positions are on
the fast side and those in the vertical positions are on the slow
side. In this instance the hairspring developed to the left from the
collet similar to the illustration shown in Fig. 10, page 45.
Fig. 25
+--------------------------------------------------+
| No. _272854_ Make _V. & C._ |
+--------+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+
| D U | + 2 | + 2 | - 4 | - 4 | | | P |
+--------+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+ |
| D D | + 5 | + 3 | - 8 | - 4 | | | |
+--------+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+ |
| P U | - 1 | - 6 | -14 | - 6 | | | |
+--------+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+ |
| P R | - 8 | - 7 | -21 | - 7 | | | |
+--------+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+ |
| P L | -17 | - 9 | -25 | - 4 | | | |
+--------+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+
12 3
Investigation found the escapement, regulator pins and pinning point
satisfactory; the motion was one and one-fourth turn in the vertical
positions when fully wound and only a trifle less when partially let
down. In the flat positions, however, the motion was very little
better than in the vertical, which indicated either pivot or end
stone trouble as under normal conditions the flat motion would be
about one-fourth turn greater than that of the vertical.
Inspection of the end stones proved that they were satisfactory but
the ends of the balance pivots were found to be somewhat flat and not
perfectly polished.
The ends of the pivots were slightly rounded and highly polished, the
jewels and end stones cleaned and reoiled and the balance replaced,
after which the motion in the flat positions was one and one-half turn
with the mainspring fully wound and only slightly less when partially
let down.
The motion in the vertical positions was also slightly improved and
the next test in position showed a variation of three seconds as per
fourth column Fig. 25.
Time required for making the above alteration was about one-half hour.
In the study of this example it should be clearly understood that when
the ends of balance pivots are flat, burred or not well polished, or
when the end stones are dry or dirty the motion in the horizontal
positions will be shorter than normal and this will always cause the
rate to be faster than it should be. Acceleration of the motion in
such instances by means of refinishing the pivot ends or by cleaning
and reoiling the jewels and end stones will always produce a slower
rate through causing a longer arc of motion.
This point is covered in Chapter XI, No. 47.
71. _Example No. 9._
E. Howard. No. 1,116,735. Open Face, 23 Jewels.
Repairs made. New balance staff; hole jewel; mainspring and cleaned.
The first test in positions showed a variation of eleven seconds. The
rate in all positions was fast with the exception of the dial down
rate, which was slow. See Fig. 26.
At first glance it might appear that by causing a faster rate of six
or seven seconds in the dial down position the watch would have a very
good rate. This, however, would not be consistent unless the rate was
due to the exception referred to in Chapter XI, No. 50.
Examination of the motion in the horizontal positions proved that it
was about one fourth turn better in the dial down position than it was
in the dial up position which rate compared very closely with the
vertical positions. It was therefore evident that the dial up rate was
not true and investigation found the oil in the upper jewel had become
thickened by the entrance of dirt which caused the short motion and
fast rate when the balance was running on this end stone.
Fig. 26
+--------------------------------------------------+
| No. _1116735_ Make _E. Howard_ |
+--------+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+
| D U | + 2 | + 2 | - 5 | - 5 | + 2 | + 2 | P |
+--------+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+ |
| D D | - 3 | - 5 | -10 | - 5 | + 4 | + 2 | |
+--------+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+ |
| P U | + 1 | + 4 | - 6 | + 4 | + 9 | + 5 | |
+--------+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+ |
| P R | + 7 | + 6 | 0 | + 6 | +10 | + 1 | |
+--------+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+ |
| P L | + 9 | + 2 | + 2 | + 2 | +14 | + 4 | |
+--------+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+
11 11 4
After thoroughly cleaning the jewel, end stone and pivot, the motion
in the dial up position was improved and equaled that of the dial down
position.
The next position test showed the horizontal rates to be equal but the
variation of eleven seconds in the five positions still existed as per
fourth column Fig. 26. The vertical rates were all fast compared to
the horizontal; the regulator pins were found to be slightly open
which prevented a correction at this point. The locking of the
escapement was examined and found to be satisfactory, so the balance
was again removed and tested for poise which was also found
satisfactory.
The hairspring was pinned at the usual fast point as per illustration
in Fig. 9, Chapter VIII. The most positive alteration to be made under
the circumstances was to break off the spring at the collet and repin
it at about 45 deg. above the horizontal line. This would be slightly
approaching the slow point as explained in detail in Chapter VIII, No.
35.
The mean rate of the watch would necessarily be faster after
shortening the spring; the mean time screws were found to be turned in
close to the rim and were each turned out about one full turn to
compensate for the gain. The poise was tested and found to remain
correct and the next position test showed a variation of four seconds
as per sixth column Fig. 26.
The total time required for the alterations was about one hour.
72. _Example No. 10._
Illinois. No. 1,483,023, Open Face, 21 Jewels.
Repairs made. Trued and poised balance, new balance jewel and cleaned.
This example has been selected for the purpose of illustrating a test
in the sixth or pendant down position and to give a practical
demonstration showing that the rates in the pendant down and pendant
up positions can be reversed, with positive results, through reversing
the collet pinning point of the spring, as covered in "Relative
Pinning Points" Chapter VIII.
This alteration can be undertaken with assurance of results even
though there may be serious errors of construction in the watch.
The first five position test proved that the rate pendant up was
extremely fast compared to all other rates as per second column Fig.
27.
Investigation proved that the hairspring was properly centered and
pinned at the fast pendant point and that the regulator pins were
slightly spread with equal vibration of the coil between them. The
motion was about one and one-fourth turn pendant up and over one and
one-half turn in the horizontal positions when the mainspring was
nearly full wound. The ends of balance pivots were found to be
perfectly flat, which was no doubt due to an effort to produce a
faster rate in the flat positions to cause them to compare more
favorably with the pendant up rate. This, however, was unsuccessful as
indicated by the rate.
It is quite possible that if the watch ever was closely rated it was
due to counterpoise of the balance as with the present rate the poise,
escapement and regulator pins were satisfactory and did not admit of
further corrections that would be of advantage.
By examining the P. U. rate in second column Fig. 27, it will be found
to be twelve seconds fast and then by referring to the separate P. D.
(Pendant Down) rate at the bottom, it will be found to be four seconds
slow. Adding these figures gives a total variation of sixteen seconds
between these two positions.
Fig. 27
+--------------------------------------------------+
| No. _1483023_ Make _Illinois_ |
+--------+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+
| D U | - 3 | - 3 | - 1 | - 1 | | | P |
+--------+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+ |
| D D | - 8 | - 5 | - 2 | - 1 | | | |
+--------+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+ |
| P U | + 4 | +12 | - 6 | - 4 | | | |
+--------+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+ |
| P R | 0 | - 4 | - 4 | + 2 | | | |
+--------+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+ |
| P L | - 6 | - 6 | - 7 | - 3 | | | |
+--------+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+
| P.D. | - 4 +11 |
+--------+-----------------------+
Now if these rates were reversed and the P. D. rate was in the place
of the P. U. rate the watch would have shown a very good position
rate in the first five positions and the greater part of the sixteen
seconds variation would have been in the pendant down position where
it would be of the least disadvantage. In order to obtain this
condition the collet pinning point was changed from the fast to the
slow point, or from "E", Fig. 9, to "G", Fig. 11, Chapter VIII.
A pair of heavier screws were fitted to the balance to compensate for
the difference in time caused by shortening the spring and the next
five position test showed a variation of six seconds. A separate
pendant down test proved that the pendant up and pendant down rates
had been practically reversed as shown in the fourth column.
73. _Causes of Extremely Fast Vertical Rates._
Extremely fast pendant up rates are not particularly unusual, although
the causes and corrections may be widely different.
For instance, the poise and motion feature, No. 28, Chapter VII, may
be responsible, or the balance may be in poise and the collet having a
wide slot may cause out of poise and be responsible if the slot is
located at the proper point. A defective escapement or regulator pins
tightly closed may also be responsible. Should these points be found
satisfactory, however, the rate is generally due to one of three
causes.
1. Excessive side friction of pivots because of being too large in
diameter.
2. Train wheels and pinions being of incorrect proportion and causing
irregular motion and affecting the vertical positions mostly.
3. Centrifugal force, which would cause the balance rims to spring
outward in the longer arcs of vibration and thereby produce an
abnormal slow rate in the horizontal positions where the arc of
motion is always longest. This is due to the balance rims being too
heavy in proportion to the arms or center bar.
* * * * *
When either of these three conditions are found there will be others
among the same lot of watches, but as a rule they are only found on
older watches made before correct proportions were firmly established.
Train depthings can often be improved if the workman is equipped with
a rounding up machine and knows how to use it. Otherwise the watch can
be sent to the factory for correction and the only alternative of the
repairer is to cut the spring to the slow point, or counterpoise, with
the intention of eliminating expense and getting as good results as
can be expected for the financial returns that are to be received.
74. _How to Locate Defective Gearings._
Defective gear or depthing of wheels can be detected in two ways, one
by observing the engaging surfaces of the wheel teeth and another by
testing the engagement of wheel and pinion.
If the gearing is correct, observation will show that the engaging
surfaces of the wheel teeth are smooth and either dark or possibly
polished from wearing away of the plating. If the gearings are not
correct the engaging surfaces will have cuts or ridges crosswise which
have been produced by the pinion leaves.
The cause of this cutting is due to either a faulty construction of
the teeth or to the fact that the pitch circle of the wheel is too
small while that of the pinion is too large.
Testing the gearing in the watch is accomplished by placing the
engaging wheel and pinion in the watch so that they are free to turn
without engaging with any other wheel. A piece of ivory or celluloid
several inches long and about the diameter of a piece of peg wood
should be pointed at one end and this end should be held between the
upper pivot and oil cup of the jewel, with enough pressure of the left
hand to cause friction in turning the pinion. The larger wheel should
then be turned in the direction in which it revolves when running;
this is accomplished with a piece of peg wood held in the right hand.
If the gearing is perfect there will be smoothness as the wheel and
pinion turn and if it is imperfect there will be a butting effect in
the action. Should there be a slight intermittent stepping action due
to drop of the wheel teeth on the pinion leaves it should not be
mistaken for butting as this is not detrimental and will not cause
cutting of the teeth.
Watches that have below standard train gearings require considerably
stronger mainsprings than do those which have correct gearing and they
will seldom take a reasonably good motion without a strong spring.
A safe way to judge gearings if in doubt is by the motion and the
engaging surfaces of the wheel teeth. If the motion is steady and the
teeth are not cut by the pinion leaves they may be considered as
satisfactory. If the motion is steady for a time and then suddenly
drops off there is generally something wrong in the gearing. The wheel
and pinion in error can be determined by noting at what particular
intervals the motion decreases. In nearly all instances this condition
will cause a gaining rate in the vertical positions because of the
fact that the vertical arcs are shorter and comparatively more easily
affected than the horizontal arcs.
CHAPTER XV
TIMING AND FINAL REGULATION
75. _Mean Time Screws and Timing Washers._
In the general overhauling of watches, changing staffs, retruing and
repoising of balances it is often necessary to make corrections of
several minutes per day in the mean time.
For this reason and for the convenience of the future some
manufacturers have provided from two to four mean time screws in the
balances. A complete revolution of these screws either in or out,
generally corrects any variation that may be required and frequently
considerably less is all that is required in bringing the watch to
time.
It is of course necessary that these screws be turned in opposite
pairs as well as equal distances and that they be fitted with enough
friction to prevent looseness and not too tight to cause bending of
the pivots when they are turned.
If properly used for the purpose for which they were intended they are
of inestimable value to the repairing fraternity in producing results.
The manufacturers of some watches do not supply mean time screws with
the balances and the repairer is obliged to depend entirely upon
timing washers for fast corrections, for it is, of course, not to be
expected that repair shops will carry an assortment of all different
kinds of screws such as the factories are able to maintain.
Occasionally a jeweler or watchmaker will be found who has strenuous
objections to the use of timing washers in any sense, but unless they
are supplied with a large assortment of the various makes and weights
of screws and are willing to use the extra time required for properly
changing the screws it is difficult to see just what legitimate
alternative they can adopt. Investigation of this point disclosed the
fact that the method employed by some watchmakers was to spread the
regulator pins, which would of course make the mean time slower but
would certainly destroy the adjustment to positions and make it
practically impossible to obtain results from the regulator.
It is admittedly poor workmanship to use ill-fitting washers and poor
taste to use brass washers on high grade gold screw balances, but the
fact should not be overlooked that the manufacturers of many fine
watches use washers to a limited extent, even when an abundance of
balance screws are available and very fine Swiss models are often
supplied with a pair of thin platinum washers which are not easily
detected. The regulator should not be moved from the center of the
index in correcting the mean time but should be used for minor final
regulation only. The length of the hairspring should also not be
disturbed in correcting the mean time of an adjusted watch and while a
slow rate can be corrected by reducing the weight of a pair of balance
screws it is necessary to use either heavier screws or washers for
correcting a fast rate.
76. _Importance of Properly Fitted Regulator._
Final regulation of watches is necessary after making repairs
regardless as to whether they have been adjusted to positions or not.
Position rating does not necessarily suggest that the timing has been
completed as the object is only to limit the variations from one
position to any other and a test of three or four days should always
be made in one position after the position rating has been completed.
This additional timing has for its purpose the close regulation of the
watch either in the pendant up position or in the position it is
carried. The last column on the rate card is reserved for this
purpose. In this respect the repairer who comes in contact with the
customer may gain considerable advantage by noting in which pocket the
watch is usually carried and then being guided in the final regulation
by this knowledge. The method of doing this regulating consists
generally of moving the regulator which requires certain attention to
be effective when it is moved.
The regulator should be carefully fitted around the dome and all
attachments in connection should be tightly fitted to the plate or
bridge so that they will remain rigid when regulation takes place.
The tension around the dome should be even and if a tension spring is
used in connection it should be strong enough to keep the regulator
against the screw constantly without sticking at any point as the
screw is moved forward and backward.
It should also be closely examined to see that there is no shake. This
can be determined by lightly taking hold of the segment holding the
regulator pins and moving it up and down and side ways before the
tension spring is fitted. This should be examined with a glass and a
correction made if any looseness is noted.
77. _Effect of the Middle Temperature Error._
In the final regulation of watches it is important that the middle
temperature error receive due consideration. This error is always a
few seconds fast as explained in temperature adjusting Chapter V, No.
21, and is of some consequence in the larger number of complaints
regarding losing rates in the pocket, compared to complaints of
gaining rates.
The position rating as well as the final regulation is generally done
in normal temperature which produces a rate from two to four seconds
faster than the heat extreme and it is to be expected that the pocket
rate will be slower because the temperature will be higher than
normal. This loss may not be the full amount of the middle error as
it would depend upon the actual temperature encountered for the entire
twenty-four hours and the watch may only be subjected to the pocket
temperature for a part of this period. This works in exactly the same
way in a lower temperature, as the variation is a loss in either
direction from the middle or normal temperature and in case that the
watch should be subjected to a freezing temperature at night the
result will be a loss during that period.
As an example we will assume the regulation of a watch in which the
temperature rate at the extremes of 40 deg. and 90 deg. Fahr. is
perfect, while at the temperature of 70 deg. it will time four
seconds fast.
Now if this watch is regulated to no variation in the normal
temperature it will be plainly seen that there will be a loss of four
seconds per day if the watch is placed in service at either of the
temperature extremes. If it had been regulated to run four seconds
fast in the middle or normal temperature it would time more nearly
correct in the pocket.
It is safe to assume that the watch will lose its proportional rate
with a lesser change in temperature and for this reason it is of
advantage to finally regulate all watches from two to four seconds
fast in the rack rather than to time them just correct.
78. _Some Practical Reasons for Slow Rates._
There are additional reasons for the suggestion of timing watches a
few seconds fast rather than just correct. Among them may be mentioned
the fact that many watches are carried in the left vest pocket, and
that in this instance they very often assume the pendant right
position which is generally a trifle slow compared to pendant up in
most watches of close adjustment. Magnetism to any extent whatever
always causes a slow rate and this will have its effect whenever the
balance, hairspring, regulator, regulator spring or pallet are
slightly effected or when the mainspring, large winding wheels or
case springs are considerably charged and experiments have shown that
in no instance has a fast rate been produced from this cause.
The gradual weakening or loss of elastic force of the hairspring is
also a factor to be considered.
There are some influences which cause a gaining rate that to some
extent may offset these losses, although in the absence of necessity
for cleaning or other repairs these influences are slight in
comparison to the natural and possible causes for a slow rate.
PART III
SPECIAL NOTES
CHAPTER XVI
SPECIAL NOTES
79. _Efficiency of Execution Analyzed (Two Examples)._
In performance of the various alterations and corrections that have
been touched upon in the chapters devoted to position adjusting there
are some points that deserve special note. This refers to positive
execution of the correction which the watchmaker sets out to make.
As an example we may analyze the simple feature of polishing a pivot
and cleaning and reoiling a jewel to improve the motion in one of the
horizontal positions. Ordinarily this would seem to be a very simple
proceeding requiring no additional remarks.
It is, however, quite possible to go through all of the operations of
removing, cleaning and reoiling the jewel and polishing the pivot and
then find that no improvement has been made in the motion.
Invariably the workman of moderate experience will say that he has
just cleaned and reoiled the jewel and polished the pivot and that it
must be all right.
Investigation, however, will sometimes show that the pivot has again
been marred or that a particle of dirt has found its way into the
jewel hole during replacement either through dust in the oil or
through clinging to the end of the pivot when the balance was laying
on the bench.
This experience is one that comes occasionally to the best and most
careful adjusters and if it is found that results have not been
obtained the first time it will be necessary to go over the operations
a second time.
It is possible to almost entirely eliminate this duplication of work
if proper care is exercised in examining the pivot and jewel with a
good glass before replacing and in using oil from a closed receptacle
in which it has not been possible for dust to collect.
The point raised in this instance is that the improvement desired is
not assured because of merely going through the operations of doing
the work.
It is necessary to actually remove the cause and then keep it removed.
The proof is found in the improved motion and it would hardly be worth
while to retest in positions until this improvement was obtained.
Proper curvature of the over coil within the range of the regulator
pins is another feature that may be corrected and the correction
unconsciously destroyed in replacing the balance or in centering the
spring.
A slight kink in the coil close to the regulator pins may cause the
spring to be forced out of center when the regulator is moved, or it
may cause the coil to lay against one pin and cease vibrating between
the pins. This would cause a gain of some seconds per day when the
regulator had actually been moved to cause a slower rate.
These two examples are introduced to convey the idea that it is
necessary to actually produce the corrections or alterations in any
instance and that close timing and close position rates depend more
upon this practical execution and understanding as displayed by the
watch repairer than they do upon a high degree of technical knowledge.
Personal instruction of watchmakers in adjusting has demonstrated in
most instances that the refinements are not considered seriously
enough at first, but that consistent practice and reference to the
rules soon make the proper impression, after which results are
attained in less time than was at first required for faulty
execution.
80. _Truing the Balance._
The balance should invariably be true in the round and flat and always
in poise before it is placed in the watch.
It is at times pardonable to pass a balance that is not perfectly true
in the round, especially when the watch has been repaired on several
occasions and it is noted that the rims have a tendency to become set
slightly inward or outward after having been perfectly trued. This
shows a natural tendency of the metals to find a permanent position
which may be slightly away from the true concentric form. A balance of
this description may be poised as it is and often will produce better
timing results than would be gained by perfect truing and subsequent
regulation during readjustment of the metals.
It is advisable to always have the flat true as by doing so any
slightly bent pivots will be detected through wavering of the balance
and the flat is not very frequently affected by setting of the metals.
Balances should generally be trued and poised in normal or slightly
above normal temperature. If they are trued in a low temperature they
will be out of true and possibly out of poise in the temperature to
which they are mostly subjected. Compensation balances are not
presumed to be true in the round under variations of temperature and
therefore inspection for true is necessary in somewhere near the same
temperature in which they are trued.
81. _Poising the Balance._
In poising balances it is necessary to consider the mean rate of the
watch and several details in connection therewith.
If the rate is known to be fast, weight should be added to the light
side, and if it is known to be slow weight may be removed from the
heavy side.
If the rims of the balance have been trued outward it is a safe rule
to remove weight from the heavy side in poising and if they have been
bent inward to get the balance true, weight should be added to the
light side in poising.
A balance that is in perfect poise can be brought to a perfect stop on
a fine jeweled poising tool at any point of its circumference. For
ordinary work it is generally considered as satisfactory if it can be
brought to a perfect stop at each of the four quarters. When the heavy
point seems to be first at one place and then just opposite it is
proof that either a pivot is bent or oval in form instead of round.
In some instances balances will be found to swing slightly and stop at
several different places. This is usually an indication that there are
several flat places on one or both pivots and if the watch is a fine
one the staff will require changing or the pivots may be rounded up on
a Jacot Lathe. A fine edge jeweled poising tool is best for fine work
as defects in pivots and variations in poise can be more easily
discovered than with calipers.
82. _Truing Hairsprings._
Original truing of the hairspring is made necessary by the fact of
attaching the collet to its center. When springs are turned out by the
manufacturer they are perfectly true, that is, the coils are level and
perfectly spiral in form and the deviation from this spiral form, made
necessary in attaching the collet, is what demands certain forming of
the inner terminal so that it will blend with the other coils of the
spring which have not been disturbed.
In attaching the collet it is first necessary to have the spring level
before the pin is forced tightly in place. This can be fairly well
determined by sighting across the flat of the spring and focusing upon
the inner coil to see that it is level for at least one half of its
length from the point of exit. After this operation has been
completed and the pin has been set up tight, with the surplus ends cut
off flush with the collet it will be necessary to slightly pull the
coil up or down, providing it is not perfectly level. The next
operation will be that of truing the round and all work and bending of
the spring for this operation is concentrated within the first quarter
of the coil from its point of attachment and it is seldom ever
necessary to make any bends beyond the first eighth of the coil from
the attached point.
Figure 28 may be of some value in gaining an idea as to just how this
inner coil should appear when it has been trued.
The broken lines illustrate a condition after colleting and before
truing. The heavy lines illustrate two positions into either of which
the coil may be formed in getting the spring true.
[Illustration: Fig. 28]
The outer black line shows the most adaptable form for most instances.
The inner black line shows the most practical form for use in
instances where there is unusual space between the collet and the
inner coil. It will be noted that these two forms blend into the true
spiral form of the spring at about one-eighth of the coil distant from
the collet. These forms may be used as a basis for truing the spring
in any instance in which it has been bent or mishandled around the
collet after its original truing.
Experts always true springs after they have been staked to the balance
and a light weight calipers tapered on one end to a smaller diameter
than the collet is used for spinning the balance, making observations,
and corrections.
Considerable progress can be made by some watchmakers in removing the
spring from the balance and placing it on a colleting tool or tapered
broach and then truing the flat and round as good as possible, after
which it should be perfected in the calipers. When the balance is
spinning in the calipers and the spring is true in the flat there will
be no jumping or quivering of the coils as observation is made across
the top of the inner four or five coils.
When it is perfectly true in the round and the balance is spinning in
one direction the coils will seem to be whirling into a hole of which
the collet is the center. When spinning the balance in the opposite
direction the effect of the coils will be similar to the waves
produced by dropping a small stone in still water and they will appear
to be whirling away from the center. This effect in both instances is
caused by the eye following the spiral form of the coils as the spring
revolves.
83. _Treating a Rusty Hairspring._
When rust begins its attack upon any point of a hairspring there will
be a constant loss in time until its advance is stopped.
Should considerable headway have been made by the rust before the
watchmaker's attention is enlisted for an examination it may be
necessary to change the spring entirely before good results can again
be obtained.
There are many instances, however, in which proper care at the right
time will produce as good results as will a new spring.
The first appearance of rust is generally indicated by one or more
spots of a light brown shade and in such instances it has hardly
attacked the metal to any serious extent, although usually enough to
cause a slightly losing rate. At this stage the spots may be scraped
with a piece of peg wood after which the spring can be placed in a
small copper pan containing lard oil to a depth of about one-fourth
inch.
This pan should then be held over an alcohol lamp until the oil
becomes hot enough to smoke, after which the spring should be removed,
immersed in benzine for about thirty seconds and then dried in
sawdust. This treatment will stop further rust and the only indication
of previous rust may be a removal of the color from the spot which had
been affected.
In case that the rust has reached a stage far enough advanced to
seriously pit the metal, good results cannot be expected from the
spring even though further rusting may be prevented.
84. _Stopping by Escapement Locking When Hands are Set Backward, or
When Watch Receives a Jar._
This is sometimes a very annoying trouble and while it should not
occur on high grade watches at all, it does show up just often enough
to cause a certain degree of unpleasantness for the owner of the watch
as well as for the watchmaker.
There are two principal causes for the difficulty. One is due to the
back of discharging pallet stone having a very sharp corner combined
with a slightly rough edge on the back of the escape wheel teeth and
when the two factors meet with some slight force, such as is caused by
reversal of the train wheels the sharp corner of the stone wedges
itself into the rough surface of the tooth and holds until pulled away
by some small instrument. This can be remedied by removing the sharp
edge of the stone on a diamond charged polishing lap and a very slight
correction is sufficient.
The second principal cause is due to sharp edges on the roller jewel.
First quality roller jewels always have these edges rounded, as
otherwise they may wedge into the horn of the fork and often will not
release through ordinary shaking of the watch.
A short guard pin can also cause the trouble by allowing the roller
jewel to catch on the end of the fork horn before it enters, or the
guard pin may catch on the edge of the crescent on the safety roller,
but the two causes mentioned above will allow "hanging up" even when
the guard pin, roller jewel and all other shakes are correct.
When the above conditions are correct and all setting connections are
properly fitted, the hands may be set either forward or backward
without in any way disturbing the time. There are instances, however,
where the watch will stop when the hands are reversed and at times the
second hand will actually turn backward although the watch will
immediately begin to run as soon as the backward pressure on the hands
is discontinued.
This is caused by the cannon pinion being so tightly fitted that
turning it backward will require more force than that which is
supplied by the mainspring. A condition of this description is more
pronounced when the mainspring is nearly run down and sometimes it
will happen at such times and will not occur when the spring is fully
wound.
85. _Essentials and Non-Essentials in Cleaning Watches._
It would be difficult to suggest a best method for general cleaning of
watches. Different watchmakers have different methods and good results
are attained in more than one way. Whatever the method, however, there
are certain definite requirements that are fundamental.
Among these are the thorough cleansing of pivots, jewels, pinion
leaves, wheel teeth, mainspring and winding parts.
It is not sufficient to depend upon routine and simply dip the parts
in various solutions, brush and reassemble the watch. There are many
instances in which the oil becomes gummy and sticks to the jewels and
pivots to such an extent that peg wood and pith must be applied with
considerable energy to obtain perfectly clean surfaces and holes.
The essential feature is that of actually removing every particle of
dirt from the contact surface.
It is not essential that the plate and bridges should have a high
lustre, as this does not facilitate the running. If it is desired and
if facilities are available, the plates and bridges may be dipped in
benzine and dried in sawdust, then washed and brushed in a solution of
hot water, borax and castile soap, then rinsed in fresh water, dipped
in alcohol and dried in sawdust. This produces a lustre to the plate
bridges and wheels. When it is not convenient to use hot water the
parts may be dipped and brushed in benzine for at least one minute and
dried in sawdust, then dipped in alcohol and again dried in sawdust.
In either event thorough pegging and pithing of the jewels, pivot
holes and pivots is necessary as well as brushing and examining all
wheel teeth and pinion leaves. The steel parts should be examined and
gummy oil eliminated. Fresh oil should be applied in proper quantities
in the proper places. This requires some study, as either too much or
too little oil is detrimental.
When a watch is cleaned annually by the same workman it is not
necessary that the mainspring be removed and reoiled each time, for a
mainspring properly oiled will last for two or three years before
requiring cleaning and reoiling.
It is well known that mainsprings frequently break shortly after being
removed and cleaned and this annoyance may be avoided in many
instances by intelligent use of this rule.
Balances should not be dipped in acid solutions, as the liquid gathers
under the screws and will often cause them to discolor in a short
time. It is better to polish them with fine rouge and cotton thread
arranged on a wire bow as the lustre will be more lasting.