On the bench recently is this Waltham pocket watch from Yaxley, near Peterborough.
Quite an interesting little project. On inspection the balance staff was chipped, so was somewhat shorter than original. To solve this, I redressed the pivot, and adjusted the hight of the balance cock, which was also slightly out of shape.
A small shim was made to lift one end of the balance cock. This was filed to the shape of the movement. This makes the other side lower so the staff is now the correct length.
The chipped staff also broke a jewel. This needed to be replaced so the balance wheel can run smoothly.
After a good clean, the rest of the movement was in good order, and the watch is now working very well!
Ready for inspection
Choosing a jewel.
1 - the gap 2 - fillng the gap 3 - sawing the metal
Filing the metal to size
Still a bit sticking out. Back to the file!
Much better. A final trim and it will be perfect.
Assembled. This Waltham has a full plate.
Looking and working fine!
If you have a vintage Waltham pocket watch that needs servicing, it's important to find a reputable watchmaker or watch repair service that specializes in pocket watches. Here are some steps to follow:
Research reputable watchmakers or watch repair services in your area. Look for those that have experience working on vintage pocket watches, and check online reviews and ratings to ensure they have a good reputation.
Contact the watchmaker or watch repair service and ask if they have experience working on Waltham pocket watches specifically. You may also want to ask about their pricing and turnaround time for the repair.
When you bring your watch in for service, make sure to provide as much information as possible about the watch's history, including any previous repairs or maintenance that has been done. This can help the watchmaker diagnose any issues more quickly.
Depending on the condition of the watch, the repair may involve cleaning, oiling, and adjusting the movement, replacing worn parts, or repairing damage to the case or crystal.
Once the repair is complete, the watchmaker should perform a series of tests to ensure that the watch is functioning properly and keeping accurate time.
Finally, make sure to follow any maintenance recommendations provided by the watchmaker, such as regular cleaning and oiling, to keep your vintage Waltham pocket watch in good condition for years to come.
Waltham Watch Company was one of the most prominent American watchmakers in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. They were known for producing high-quality pocket watches, and many vintage Waltham pocket watches are still in use and sought after by collectors today.
If you have a vintage Waltham pocket watch, it's important to determine its age and condition to get a sense of its value. Waltham pocket watches were produced in various grades, ranging from the low-end "economy" watches to the high-end "railroad" watches, which were designed to meet strict accuracy standards for use on trains.
To identify your Waltham pocket watch, you can look for markings on the watch's movement, which is the internal mechanism that drives the watch. The movement may have a serial number that can be used to determine its age and grade. Additionally, the watch's case may have markings that can provide more information about the watch's origin and production.
If you're interested in selling your vintage Waltham pocket watch, you may want to consult with a professional appraiser or a reputable dealer in antique watches. They can help you determine the watch's value and find a buyer who will appreciate its history and craftsmanship.