I have watched 8 to 10 of your videos and in several you state that it is a hobby. You, sir, are an artist. Your narrative is clear and brilliant and has given me a new appreciation for watch making. Thank you.
What I love most about this is that you'd likely never get the chance to watch someone do this up close in real life (because a lot of professionals dislike customers looking over their shoulder when they are trying to concentrate), and certainly not magnified for your convenience. Also, when you said 'we did it!' after working your magic on that balance, I've never felt both so included and so inept at the same time.
"because a lot of professionals dislike customers looking over their shoulder when they are trying to concentrate" I'll bet quite a few never go this deep into taking a watch apart for service, and just open the case and dab some oil in and call it good, the fact this watch was relatively recently "serviced" but the balance shaft was broken kind of suggests what I said- they just opened the case, dabbed some oil in and called it good. Totally taking a watch apart like this takes time even if there was nothing that had to be repaired, just taking it apart, cleaning, oil, reassembly would take enough time it would have to cost close to $150- $200, so if a shop charged $49.95 for "complete service" I'd be very suspicious they don't take anything apart past the case back, just blow it out with air, put some oil in where they can reach and call it good
Marshall, after seeing you restore watches to keep and seeing the one for size comparison, I would really like to see a State of the Collection video. Maybe also a State of the Toolkit 😁
I absolutely love trying to see what watch he's wearing as he's working. And they're all great. A state of the collection vid or at least some way to see them all would be awesome.
I've thought of it but I've really been wanting to focus on restorations. Maybe I'll do something for Instagram? Or shorts? Or maybe I'll just make a real video 😂
Also expensive... but I saw some nice sets for 50-200 bucks that has 90% of the tools needed and then you just pick up some specialised tools along the way. But I still find it surprinsingly affordable that way. I build model ships and I easily blow through that much in tools per ship. And watchmaking can be kinda profitable, at least you can recoup a bunch of losses if you can resell one occasionally. Rolex don't seem any more difficult than Omegas yet they go for 10x the price... so just fixing 1-2 of those a year might provide cash for the hobby for tools and a bunch of busted watches to fix.
I'm familiar with machining, lathes, mills and thread cutting and it boggles my mind how such tiny screws and components can be so accurately manufactured
I’m pretty sure they just make like hundreds and hundreds of them at random and hope one accidentally just turns out the right size (am joking, but that is legit how I would do it haha)
I could feel the part of me that would do the exact same thing scream "POP, DAMN YOU. POP!!!!" and spending an hour trying to pop a bubble not because I wanted it popped, but because I was trying to prove a point to the bubble... yeah. Makes perfect sense, right? :P
@@gerrimcardle3625 be that as it may, it’s still a fun moment that brought levity to a serious video that clearly took a toll on him prompting the reaction
Without doubt one of the most compelling things I have seen for a very long time. Beautifully filmed with perfect audio. Engaging, eloquent, funny and of course incredibly skilful. Your modesty is so refreshing too - especially these days. You are a very talented chap, Marshall. Thank you.
I can't even imagine what the tolerance engineering on this thing must be like. Like at that size, you took apart the damaged balance, put it back together, and it assembled fine and runs? Colour me very impressed; with your skill naturally but with the tolerance engineering there as well.
I wish this was a show I could tune into on TV weekly😂 I can just hear you saying "alright let's take a quick break" and have commercials. As I've seen people say before, you're like the Bob Ross of the hobby. I might not ever pick up a paint brush or start repairing watches myself, but I love watching the process. It's a relaxing and fascinating experience
My mom had a watch that appears smaller than this that she bought in the early 60's. It stopped working in the late 1970's and was told it wasn't worth fixing. It's about the size of a pinky finger nail and I'm guessing the watch maker she spoke to just didn't have the chops to attempt the service. I still have the watch and I suppose will get it serviced when my daughter grows up. Nice to see someone is willing to take these on.
The size of the movement is achieved by shelving the plates. The components aren't' scaled down to the movements diameter. The difficulty working with movements is rarely a size issue.
Like yourself, my mother has a watch that is much smaller than this rolex. My mom's watch, a GP, is 14kt white gold & is so tiny that I've never been able to tell the time. Which begs the question, what is the point of a watch if you can't tell the time?
@@montanajones8393 This Rolex is HUGE - ok some exaggeration there😊 , but I've seen tiny watch movements that are small enough to be a finger ring. And yes, totally pointless for the job in hand if you have to squint at it 5cm from your face. At that scale, there must be some alternative to a round analogue display.
I have never owned a real watch in my life. I didn't even know that watches could not have batteries! Yet I am absolutely obsessed with these videos. Marshall is so descriptive, and the editing of these videos is simply perfect.
I have an older friend who was the opposite. One day she complained she just had another watch stop working and her wrist was where watches go to to die. "I guess I have to go buy another one. I don't understand it because I'm so careful. I gently wind my watch every day and they just stop working after a couple of years." I asked to see her watch and she handed it to me. I looked at the back and after reading the tiny print I said, "You should know, winding this watch is doing nothing. It's battery powered. You just need a battery I bet. Take it to a jeweler and they'll put one in for you." She laughed and said, "I'm not falling for that BS. You're just trying to play a trick on me." I got out my pocket knife, popped off the case back, and flipped out an Eveready 357 battery onto the table. A few days later she tells me she now has four watches that run! Eyeroll.
@@paulshewmaker4568 Shame on you for playing tricks on people 😁 I had a friend who was blown away by my wind up alarm clock. Couldn't understand that clocks existed before electricity
@@paulshewmaker4568 I had a friend that showed me a new watch he said got for a good price. I took a look and flipped it over. I told him it was a knockoff and he could hardly believe me. I told him nobody puts a .99 cent band on a good watch. The watch itself was a decent copy as long as you don't look carefully.
@@paulshewmaker4568 ROFLMAO!!!! If you really want to blow her mind tell her that there was a time you go to a gas station and a guy would come out and pump your gas, wash your windows and check your oil..... all for 21¢ a gal. And the only soda and candy was from a vending machine.
This was the most heart stopping episode ever. Every time I saw you putting pressure on the movement sliding around on that staking block I was afraid you were going to accidentally bend or break the centerwheel hitting the shaft against the side of the hole.
When I'm looking at vintage watches on eBay, and they mention broken balance staff, I now realize just how important the little part is. And it's not simply a matter of, "oh just replace it". I see know that there's so much detail in fixing a broken balance staff. Well done!
33:05 I've always been fascinated with all the screws of those beautiful, delicate balance wheels and assume it has to do with giving the part weight and maintaining perfect spinning balance. It would be interesting to see one get set up!
I was a watchmaker in the 60's. The order for disassembling was always; release the power in the mainspring FIRST, then the balance and the pallets. Finally the train wheels. You are asking for BIG trouble otherwise. You putting a new staff in was balance was top notch though. I always look forward to your posts.
Very low risk to take out the balance first, there isn't anything realistic that could happen there. Taking out the pallet next on the other hand would be badddd
@@ebmusicman84 The pallet fork isn't "under" the train, it is literally the end of the train in as much as it holds the escape wheel from incrementing with each swing of the balance. With the balance removed, you'd simply unscrew the pallet bridge (releasing the pallet fork) and in an instant the entire stored load of the main spring would run through the train. As Marshall says: "...it would be badddd."
@@WristwatchRevival I have to respectfully disagree with you there, Marshall. Once the power is removed and the balance, removing the pallet is safe, and then you can check the train of wheels for any problem, before you disassemble it. Especially useful when you are diagnosing a faulty movement, I find.
And I thought getting deep into a car tear down was stressful, you my friend are a mad scientist and I would of never thought that two of my favorite channels would be watching a man fix watches and another channel where a man cleans these huge rugs people have in their homes, great videos, awesome job very entertaining.
The smallest watch I've ever seen was the one that my grandmother used to wear on her nursing uniform. It was pinned on the shirt, and had a 2" chain. At the end of the chain was a pendant the size of a pinky nail. Inside that pendent was a watch that was upside down with the case. The purpose was that she could look down at her chest and see the time for taking pulses. She retired 40 years ago, and I haven't even thought about it since.
My great-grandma had a similar watch. About the size of the one in the video, but same concept, pinned to her shirt upside down for easy looking. She worked on telephone routing boards back in the day.
In 1929, Jaeger-LeCoultre created the Calibre 101, specially to fit the diminutive jewellery watches that were all the rage at that time. This tiny rectangular movement has 98 parts, and it measures 14 x 4.8 x 3.4 mm. It weighs a gram, and it is manually-wound, with 33 hours power reserve. Its rectangular shape makes it ideal for inclusion in jewellery pieces, but it has remained very much a collector’s item. Jaeger-LeCoultre still have the capability of making it, but from 1929, only about 2,000 have ever been made. Queen Elizabeth II possesses at least two: she wore one on her Coronation Day, and Jaeger-LeCoultre presented her another, in a diamond bracelet watch similar to that piece, for her Diamond Jubilee. Today their range includes the Joaillerie 101 Résille, reference 2823326, in which the movement is set in a bracelet of blue and pink sapphires.
Have to say, yours was the first watch restoration (revival!) channel that was recommended and it is still the best I have found so far. Watched a few other channels and no one else seems to want to talk through the process the way you do. I have learned SO much from watching and listening to you work on watches, even if I never try to do the same (have to admit, you almost make it look easy). So, a huge thank you, sir!
I'm a 6'9ft giant with hands like shovels watching you repair and work on watches is just so amazing for me to watch and I love it how you take us on a journey while you work on it.....keep on posting this
Hi Marshall. No one have never impressed me as much as you did with this video. Trust me, I’ve been working with microsurgery and it’s not even close to your work. I just put back to work my grandpa’s Orient wristwatch. I did it inspired by you. Thanks!!!
Trust me no one have never impressed me working with microsurgery. It's not even close to my grandpa's Orential watch. Thanks!! I did it as you did!! Marshall microsurgury. Hellow?
I kept finding myself holding my breath when you were working on that balance ... I can't imagine what you were feeling. Really amazing work and very satisfying results. Bravo!
I like how the yoke spring (at least in this case) looks like a stylized 'R'. Also I kinda blame you for me looking on ebay for pocket watches to disassemble, buying one, and liking it too much to take it apart!
You can buy a Seagull ST3600, which is pretty good copy of an ETA 6497 pocket watch movement. They are cheap and great value for money, and are great for practising on. Once you are finished with working on it you can stick it into a Panerai style wristwatch case and wear it on your wrist.
This is where a 3d printer really comes into its own. Make a pair of jaw liners to grab a movement that small. Personally, I'd use TPU for the liners; it's basically a synthetic rubber. A soft plastic.
Now THAT is some impeccable micro-craftsmanship you did to get that beautiful tiny machine going again, Marshall. Your narrations are great, too..logical and therapeutically soothing to listen to. Thanks for sharing. : - )
Just finished my first project, a mantel clock and appreciate your videos helping me. The only problem I had was that I ended up with 2 extra washers that I can't figure out where they belong. The clock is working though so I got that going for me 👍
I don’t know what it is but every time I take something apart and put it back together I almost always have at least one screw or washer or something left over and the thing works fine. I guess I’m just more efficient than the original manufacturer
Would love to see a listing of the amount of time each step takes. Things like disassembly, cleaning, reassembly, specialty work like the balance wheel work, jewel lubrication, etc. and shipping of parts. Just curious. Wonderful video.
Simply amazing that they could produce this watch back in the day. From my manufacturing and quality control background, the tolerances on these microscopic parts are insane. Just a work of art and a wonderful example of the machinist’s talent. So cool.
When i first moved to L.A. 30 years ago there was an old Couple from Germany that owned & ran a store selling & and servicing Time Pieces. The Store- there for 30 years - was right near Ventura & Van Nuys Blvds .i lived near and visited often. The aged husband was a Master Watch Maker ; trained in Switzerland... who's final examination before Certification entailed being given a block of metal and Every part off a functioning , beautiful Time Piece/Watch had to be produced /Machined etc. , Entirely from that block of metal, By the prospective 'Master' to certified as such. i think of him often when i have handled such impossibly tiny works of art as every piece and part of these watches are. To have his capacity and ability is truly 'Next Level'. Made very evident by the clear enlargements in these thoughtful Videos.
Nice. I've watched many of your videos. I just had my better half's 50 odd year old Raymond Weil ladies watch serviced by a guy in Glasgow .It had never ever been serviced since new and of course the lubricants had turned into gunk. It's a tiny ladies watch like that Rolex but with an oval face. The guy did a great job and it now runs great and keeps really good time. I was very surprised and delighted at the price he quoted for the job and it came back from his shop looking like new waith a one year written guarantee. I have another job for him, my dad's 1970's Bernex Barracuda automatic watch. It runs but only after being on my wrist for a while to wam up the lubricants. I think it's well overdue a service.
I suppose you haven't seen Chaika 1200. 9×12.5×3 mm mechanism total size (yes, rectangular), 17 jewels, only hour and minute hands, no apparent shock protection, were manufactured in 1964-1968, mostly in a gold-plated case, exterior size 10×15 mm. The band was separable, either metal gold-plated or leather. I have one without a band. Can fit four of those in case across a Xiaomi Mi6 smart band, or, I guess, six on a face of an Apple Watch 42. Opens similarly to this Rolex, the mechanism is removed completely. I suppose that this specific model of Rolex, or its relative, was an inspiration for Soviet watchmakers in Uglich, Yaroslavl region, Russia back then. There was another tiny Chaika mechanism, slightly bigger than the 1200, in three editions - a pendant, a wristwatch, and a finger ring watch; the pendant being the rarest kind of case. I have the wristwatch with bracelet, also in running condition (but not sure if it runs any good). I wish I had an opportunity to give the Chaika 1200 to you to peruse, for service (I had it serviced locally, it runs, but not sure how well) and case replating, but considering what Russian president does now and how the rest of the world reacts to it, it's zero options for me to send it to you from Moscow and then get back.
Fantastic job! Aside from seeing how you overcome those watch issues, the other excitement is also seeing those unique tools you used. It seems like there are more tools we haven’t seen yet.
+1. The 4039 works great on these tiny movements. The reverse side will hold much larger movements so you can use it as a second holder when working multiple projects. It's not even a one-off tool, in my opinion.
Yeah I feel a bit inclined to believe that more effort could have went into securing and fastening the movement onto the holder than was made. Just a hunch. I honestly believe that it was barely attempted at all.
@@DONTctVT Is it even painted edges though? I have to admit I didn't look too close and I cba to go back in the video to check, but that thing looked plastic to me. Given that it was included in a set, it makes sense to me that they used the cheapest material they could find for an "extra" tool that isn't the highpoint of the set. 🤷♂
Thanks! I love your channel and am learning something new about watches and their movements every episode! Thanks again! I notice you have a fine audible voice, and even with hearing losses, I understand you quite well. Put a picture of your work area and yourself in here too, no one seems to know what you look like, but you do seem to have a good sense of humor! Vaya con dios!
I never understood how important that movement holder was until I watched this video. Marshal's skills are exquisite. He as good as you will find on RUclips, and this is the sloppiest I have ever seen him - and that says as much about the process of servicing this watch as it does about his abilities. To be able to complete this without incident, without the holder to help him, is incredible.
Small but girthy. Wow. I laughed when I saw the itty bitty movement holder. Question: have you ever sneezed at an inopportune time and lost a part or a screw?
Awesome video as always! I'd like to see a video about adjusting/tuning a movement as well, like how in this video he says he fiddled for a while to get the beat error down. Would be really cool to see the steps he takes to improve each of the parameters.
Yes I actually wanted to show that for this one, but it's very very hard to film, and makes the job more risky and I don't like to risk stuff on other people's watches like this one
I know nothing about watches, nor even wear one for most of the time, but I really enjoy watching your movies. I like the commentary, this makes it even more interesting.
Marshall I am so glad you mentioned the stress induced by working on such a small watch because I was stressing just watching it. AMAZING work once again my friend.
Marshall so good to see another video from you. The moment you opened the watch case, you just unveiled the soul of the watch that witnessed so many histories so far. Great content and salute to your creativity in craftmanship.
For the movement holder, maybe small little dabs of silicone sealant on the places it touches the movement will make it a little more grippy? Just brush a little on there with your little wooden dowels and let it dry.
I'm watching on my laptop and find myself leaning toward the screen lol Fascinating to watch - At times I forget how small, and then WOW, I see something that brings me back to scale ! Thank you !
I wish someone would make a app for virtual reality watch repair. With instructional directions and labeled parts and tools so that a person could learn the trade without fear of destroying a fine watch. Hints would be great too if you get stuck on what to do next.
Wow. I found your channel only recently, but I really enjoy watching. It seems that each video has different challenges which keeps it interesting. This is the first time I have seen a balance wheel repaired. That seems really skillful even with the appropriate tools. Thanks for the videos. PS. you have a great voice for narrating what you are doing.
I live vicariously through your videos, horology is so amazing cool and I love how fiddly and attention detailed it is. That tiny holder was no surprise as struggling to grip, the plastic looks cheap and thus too rounded, too hard for grip and too soft to pinch. And here's hoping it's the smallest you ever work on!
The process of the watch restoration is always so fascinating to watch but I think the quality of narration goes overlooked sometimes. I get so engaged in what is being said and it feels like he is talking as he is working. Every time I watch a video I forget that the narration is dubbed in until the “fast forwarded” cleaning phase. Excellent work. Please keep it up.
Man I was just about to call it a night (1:43am here in south TX), saw you just released a new vid, and now my sleepiness is all gone lol love your work good sir!
Interesting. My grandma owned the Tudor version of this watch; literally identical but for the name on the dial -- also in 14k (as usual, Tudor used Rolex cases and bracelets, with ebauche movements often from Felsa or ETA). Omega was also particularly well known for this specific style of tiny mesh band + "gem crystal" watch in this era. These little cocktail pieces were extremely popular in the 60s-70s, as an evolution from the more angular, embellished, rope-strapped cocktails of the 40s and 50s. As far as tiny or least super thin watches, you haven't lived until you've worked on a Concord Delirium... Never again.
My mother got the Omega version of this watch. Exact same, except for the Omega logo on the face. She got it when I was born in 1972. It runs to this day (and has never been serviced).
@@jarls5890 You should really get that serviced if it's going to be used at all, even if it's working currently. Running a watch that old without servicing is like running a car without engine oil -- just a bit slower for major damage to become apparent.
So, I got my first pocket watch to start tinkering with, and couldn't believe how small the parts are in real life. They look bigger on the TV I have as my monitor. This entire movement is smaller than my mainspring barrel! Yeah, something this small is definitely not for beginners. But, as always, another brilliant video from Marshall. I really appreciate how the narration feels like it's happening in real time. But it's not, so there's not a lot of hemming and hawing. It flows. What have you done to me? I'm literally waiting for a cannon pinion remover so I can continue the service of my pocket watch.
I just finished dismantling and putting back together a 17 jewel Elgin Sportsman wristwatch with a Seiko 66 movement. It was so incredibly tiny!! It was my first attempt at working with a movement and I should have listened to your advice on pocket watches for beginners! This was cheapest mechanical movement I could find, just to get my feet wet. Difficulty aside, I was able to get it completely apart and back together again in functioning condition! I didn't work on the mainspring at all however. I don't have a winder and didn't want to ruin my chances at seeing it run after reassembly if i messed up the mainspring trying to hand-rewind. Thanks for the videos and inspiring a new hobby! Incredibly difficult but very rewarding experience!
I'm betting the reason that smaller holder won't work is because of the plastic not gripping. I bet if you glued bits of that grip padding that's used under rugs and whatnot, it would solve your problem and make it usable in the future. Cheers!
I'm staggered that well before computer tech was available, those tiny parts & screw-threads could EVEN be manufactured to such obvious close-tolerances!
That's a given though ... Lighting, magnification & steady hands ... but how on earth were those fine thread parts ever engineered in such exacting tolerance?
Hi Marshall, another great repair! Just a quick question about getting the balance in beat after major disassembly like that... when reassembling, how do you know where the roller table and balance spring should go in relation to one another? Are they marked in some way, or is it a case of trial and error?
I had this question as well. Because the hairspring connects to the balance bridge which sets the angle the balance sits relative to the pallet forks (I think?) but how do you know where that roller table goes.
I basically just started over and put the roller wherever, and then eyeballed the balance spring collet/stud orientation. As you saw, it was way off so I had to adjust it.
This is why it's absolutely imperative to mark the underside of the balance wheel of where the impulse jewel is prior to removing the roller table. To be honest with modern tech nowadays one could also use a camera. I still mark the underside which saves you a massive headache later. I was super surprised to see it fire up after the roller was placed at random but I guess that is a lottery win or video editing :)
Hey Marshall, just today I took my everyday Waltham Riverside pocket watch (1913) in for a cleaning. I use it all the time because it was my great grandmother's and I wanted to keep the connection alive. But while I was packing it up I found my wife's old Seiko square dress watch and I think it might be a competitor to your 'smallest movement' item. It is oval measuring 12 mm x 16 mm. Incredible. Still runs just fine but she doesn't like its appearance so she let me have it. If you'd like a pic I can take one... doug, Guelph Ontario.
I am in absolute awe at how small a mechanical movement can be made! Edit: I decided to see just how far people have pushed miniaturization of watch movements, and it turns out Jaeger-LeCoultre's Calibre 101 movement is almost as small across as a matchstick! absolutely insane.
I enjoy your videos a lot and I admire your patience and steady hands. Here's one suggestion: Try to capture the sound of the ticking clock once it's running again. This will be so satisfying.
I'm a watchmaking / repairing hobbyist and did pick up a even smaller mechanical watch on a flea market which is set into a ring (finger ring...). Crazy those little tickers...
Who would have that I would watch five hours of watch repair in one day. I have to compliment you on your ability to keep the interest going, skill of watch repair, and the beauty of recording your projects. Just plain awesome all the way around. You have kept me interested to the point I would love to try this some day, that is if I can see long enough to try. Keep up the good work and thanks for sharing your skills with us.
I bought a Waltham 645, 21 Jewel, Railroad Pocket Watch from a Colorado seller with 18,000 feedbacks. Watch is 16 size (case diameter 49 mm). The movement is a grade 645, lever set, 21 jewel, raised jewel settings, gold center wheel, micrometer regulator, and adjusted to 5 positions. It is running and the seller's feedback on watches and the like is very good, so I'm confident it will be a decent watch like I was looking for, but also you have a video on one of these exact watches so that will be a great guide for me to dive into it. I'm going to buy a few of the basic tools your other video outlines- screw drivers, tweezers and so forth, nothing fancy or expensive, and see what I can do with the watch.
Great video Marshall! To fix the movement holder, maybe take a file and make sure there are no rounded edges on the jaws were the movement is sitting. I think it has enough clamping force in it, but it was just being squeezed out! Not as precisely made as the milled 90 degree angles of the nicer ones. I'll add that I don't know what the hell I'm talking about, but I think it may work. See you in the next one!
That dornblüth watch is incredible! Not to mention a piece of unbelievably detailed craftsmanship from what must be one of the finest independent watchmakers in the world!
I have watched many of your restoration videos on Infinity-RUclips, and you can't participate with comments. It is amazing how small the screws are, I wonder how they were made, especially back in the eighteen hundreds. Thank you for your videos. I can't wait to see this one, I was wondering what it would be like to do a small Lady's watch... Thank you again. I just finished watching the video, all I can say is, Awesome. Another point to note, you have a fabulous narrating voice, easy and smooth..., it too keeps one interested..
I have no idea how you remember how to put it back together let alone take it apart without damaging it or losing a part. Excellent work and thanks for sharing.
I need to watch this on my tv,, not my phone. I want to see the intricacies and this tiny screen does that tiny cluster of gears no justice. Great work.
Im learning from you Marshall! At 5:19, when you undo the screw on on the balance bridge, I saw the balance wheel move and thought, “Oh oh, I bet the balance staff’s gone”. You sir are an educator!
I was having my quartz watch repaired for minor scuffs, and I noticed the watchmaker were servicing an automatic mechanical watch. It was a normal watch but I managed to grasp the actual size of these watch parts, which is ridiculously small. These videos made them looks bigger than how it supposed to be.
Update : When I put my (I thought) long lost mechanical pocket watch for repair this morning, the watchmaker was repairing a watch similar size to that watch in this video. It. Was. Unbelievably small. The balance was so tiny! I thought the balance in my watch already tiny but that is micro sized. How do they made watches like that? With precision!
Just discovered your channel. My grandfather had an Omega fob watch like the one on your channel and seeing your work gives me hope of finding a guy like you to have a go at it. So nice to see a non-throwaway discipline.
WOW! ...holding my breath there a couple of times with that balance wheel shaft. GREAT JOB as usual! I would be particularly interested, in some videos like this, what some parts like that cost, how hard or easy those parts are to get (and origin) and the value of the watch. MEZMORIZING VIDEO...thanks again Marshall keep em comin...👍
Marshall, maybe the reason this holder does not hold the watch tight is because you have one side of the holding side? plate? on the crown. Rotate the watch so that the crown is not where the holding thing is.
This was such a riveting video in more than one sense of the word. I was so impressed that you manage to fix that balance. An impressive show of your skill and dedication to restoring beautiful timepieces.
Marshall, we started watching you about 2 months ago and my husband, 75, was inspired to take a Bulova 23 watch in to be repaired a month ago. It was built in 1954 and given to him brand new in 1955 when he was 7 years old (too much watch for a little kid but it was given by an uncle who died shortly after and he loved it). The watch had not run for WAY more than 50 years, the crystal was cracked, and the stem had fallen out at some point. He paid $300 to a local jeweler and got it back in 2 weeks. It looked great!! Then we noticed it was losing time...about 20 minutes every 24 hours...and the face was dirty! I mean, it had specks of something on it that were not there before he took it in! He took it back to the guy yesterday and I told The Hub if he doesn't fix it and clean it better this time, I'll do it myself! 😅🥰
Can say enough positive things about you channel and how amazing you’re workmanship is … also you have to be a teacher and wish you had a classroom. I would attend every class you had .. so enjoyable to listen to and watch work… keep up the good work.. wish there was more interesting and knowledgeable people like yourself on RUclips… so close to perfection for me … also love that your not just fixing only big name brands..
I have one smaller, it looks like someone dug it up in their backyard. I kept it because the mechanics wernt froze up. Cant make out the name. It's fun seeing how these little machines go together and function, good channel.
The D. Dornbluth and Sohn is one of my favorite watches. And that engraved numerals and markers are stunning. Just a fantastic example of fine watchmaking. And also a fantastic job is what you sir are doing with each and every video that you post.
Patience is a virtue, and you’ve got plenty of it. Question: Does anyone know of any videos that show the production of the minute screws and parts? I’ve looked up videos but haven’t found one that shows how these really small parts are made. I’m in awe of how a screw is threaded when I have problems seeing the item in the first place. Thanks. 👍🏻🇦🇺😁
How lucky are your extended family members with watch servicing needs! Not only do they get a more thorough service than at some professional establishments, but they get a memorial video detailing the inner workings of their treasured piece to keep for all time.
Marshall, You have some very serious skills and I should know. My career has been spent doing very precise electronic rework. I do rework on wire smaller than human hair and on stacking 01005 components (ultra small). You have the focus and skill of a master. That is a very small community.
My ex-wife has a 1970's "Seiko" ladies ' bead bracelet' (manual wind) watch. Each bead in the bracelet measures only 7mm dia. Into one of these 'beads' is inserted a tiny (7 jewels) Seiko Movement. only 50% (or less) the size of the Rolex you've just worked on - this would truly test your mettle. It still works & keeps reasonably good time, although it has never been serviced.
What a beautiful little watch, like how you include us the viewers and including us as part of the journey of repair, when it's your skill and knowledge that actually carries out the repair. If it was me, knowing my luck, everything would have been on the floor as I would have not been looking and knocked it off the table. 😂
The tedium of watch services and the MTG mat imply that you play blue mana. The way you pop bubbles however implies you play red mana. All jokes aside, I love your videos! Keep up the amazing work!
I have watched 8 to 10 of your videos and in several you state that it is a hobby. You, sir, are an artist. Your narrative is clear and brilliant and has given me a new appreciation for watch making. Thank you.
What I love most about this is that you'd likely never get the chance to watch someone do this up close in real life (because a lot of professionals dislike customers looking over their shoulder when they are trying to concentrate), and certainly not magnified for your convenience. Also, when you said 'we did it!' after working your magic on that balance, I've never felt both so included and so inept at the same time.
"because a lot of professionals dislike customers looking over their shoulder when they are trying to concentrate"
I'll bet quite a few never go this deep into taking a watch apart for service, and just open the case and dab some oil in and call it good, the fact this watch was relatively recently "serviced" but the balance shaft was broken kind of suggests what I said- they just opened the case, dabbed some oil in and called it good.
Totally taking a watch apart like this takes time even if there was nothing that had to be repaired, just taking it apart, cleaning, oil, reassembly would take enough time it would have to cost close to $150- $200, so if a shop charged $49.95 for "complete service" I'd be very suspicious they don't take anything apart past the case back, just blow it out with air, put some oil in where they can reach and call it good
@@HobbyOrganist you're probably right. And yes, a service is expensive. My last one was around 400 euros including tax
I feel like I'm a little kid watching my dad in the workshop or play video games again
This was great fun to watch!
Yyyyyyyeah thanks for "helping" FRANS
Marshall, after seeing you restore watches to keep and seeing the one for size comparison, I would really like to see a State of the Collection video. Maybe also a State of the Toolkit 😁
I absolutely love trying to see what watch he's wearing as he's working. And they're all great. A state of the collection vid or at least some way to see them all would be awesome.
I second that! I'd love that!
Yeah, great idea. Marshall please do it!
Wouldn't it be cool if he had several miniature tool boxes with slide out drawers like these big snap-on tool boxes auto mechanics have 🧰🗜🛠🪛⚙️🧰 .
I've thought of it but I've really been wanting to focus on restorations. Maybe I'll do something for Instagram? Or shorts? Or maybe I'll just make a real video 😂
oh my goodness ITS SO ADORABLE!!!! THE DIAL IS AS BIG AS YOUR SECONDS TIMER
One thing I’m leaning by watching these videos is that this hobby is the perfect hobby for tool geeks. You have a specialised tool for everything!
Also expensive... but I saw some nice sets for 50-200 bucks that has 90% of the tools needed and then you just pick up some specialised tools along the way. But I still find it surprinsingly affordable that way. I build model ships and I easily blow through that much in tools per ship. And watchmaking can be kinda profitable, at least you can recoup a bunch of losses if you can resell one occasionally. Rolex don't seem any more difficult than Omegas yet they go for 10x the price... so just fixing 1-2 of those a year might provide cash for the hobby for tools and a bunch of busted watches to fix.
I'm familiar with machining, lathes, mills and thread cutting and it boggles my mind how such tiny screws and components can be so accurately manufactured
I was thinking the same.
here's a fun fact: the millionometer (a tool to measure one thousandth of a millimeter) was invented in 1844 by one of the watchmakers that owned JLC
i cant even imagine drawing up the specs of those screws
I’m pretty sure they just make like hundreds and hundreds of them at random and hope one accidentally just turns out the right size
(am joking, but that is legit how I would do it haha)
How do you even make a cutting tool to cut the threads? Do you sift through diamond dust looking for a sutably pointy one?
Marshall fighting bubbles is the funniest thing i’ve ever seen him do…he finds fun in anything regarding his watches
Got my laugh of the day on them bubbles!
Also the tension in the liquid bubble may attract very light weight washers and then the washer may not get cleaned throughly.
So glad that personal touch made it through the edit.
I could feel the part of me that would do the exact same thing scream "POP, DAMN YOU. POP!!!!" and spending an hour trying to pop a bubble not because I wanted it popped, but because I was trying to prove a point to the bubble... yeah. Makes perfect sense, right? :P
@@gerrimcardle3625 be that as it may, it’s still a fun moment that brought levity to a serious video that clearly took a toll on him prompting the reaction
Without doubt one of the most compelling things I have seen for a very long time. Beautifully filmed with perfect audio. Engaging, eloquent, funny and of course incredibly skilful. Your modesty is so refreshing too - especially these days. You are a very talented chap, Marshall. Thank you.
Thank you Warren, I appreciate the kind words!
I can't even imagine what the tolerance engineering on this thing must be like. Like at that size, you took apart the damaged balance, put it back together, and it assembled fine and runs? Colour me very impressed; with your skill naturally but with the tolerance engineering there as well.
I wish this was a show I could tune into on TV weekly😂
I can just hear you saying "alright let's take a quick break" and have commercials. As I've seen people say before, you're like the Bob Ross of the hobby. I might not ever pick up a paint brush or start repairing watches myself, but I love watching the process. It's a relaxing and fascinating experience
My mom had a watch that appears smaller than this that she bought in the early 60's. It stopped working in the late 1970's and was told it wasn't worth fixing. It's about the size of a pinky finger nail and I'm guessing the watch maker she spoke to just didn't have the chops to attempt the service. I still have the watch and I suppose will get it serviced when my daughter grows up. Nice to see someone is willing to take these on.
The size of the movement is achieved by shelving the plates. The components aren't' scaled down to the movements diameter. The difficulty working with movements is rarely a size issue.
Like yourself, my mother has a watch that is much smaller than this rolex. My mom's watch, a GP, is 14kt white gold & is so tiny that I've never been able to tell the time. Which begs the question, what is the point of a watch if you can't tell the time?
@@montanajones8393 This Rolex is HUGE - ok some exaggeration there😊 , but I've seen tiny watch movements that are small enough to be a finger ring. And yes, totally pointless for the job in hand if you have to squint at it 5cm from your face. At that scale, there must be some alternative to a round analogue display.
@@Robert_Browne Yeah, size doesn't matter, it's the movement
Smallest watch movement is the Jaeger-LeCoultre Calibre 101
I have never owned a real watch in my life. I didn't even know that watches could not have batteries! Yet I am absolutely obsessed with these videos. Marshall is so descriptive, and the editing of these videos is simply perfect.
I have an older friend who was the opposite. One day she complained she just had another watch stop working and her wrist was where watches go to to die. "I guess I have to go buy another one. I don't understand it because I'm so careful. I gently wind my watch every day and they just stop working after a couple of years." I asked to see her watch and she handed it to me. I looked at the back and after reading the tiny print I said, "You should know, winding this watch is doing nothing. It's battery powered. You just need a battery I bet. Take it to a jeweler and they'll put one in for you." She laughed and said, "I'm not falling for that BS. You're just trying to play a trick on me." I got out my pocket knife, popped off the case back, and flipped out an Eveready 357 battery onto the table. A few days later she tells me she now has four watches that run! Eyeroll.
@@paulshewmaker4568 Shame on you for playing tricks on people 😁
I had a friend who was blown away by my wind up alarm clock. Couldn't understand that clocks existed before electricity
@@paulshewmaker4568 I had a friend that showed me a new watch he said got for a good price. I took a look and flipped it over. I told him it was a knockoff and he could hardly believe me. I told him nobody puts a .99 cent band on a good watch. The watch itself was a decent copy as long as you don't look carefully.
editing. but the macro photography is also beautiful and the calm manner of marshall's voice makes these video, such a joy to watch (no pun intended)
@@paulshewmaker4568 ROFLMAO!!!!
If you really want to blow her mind tell her that there was a time you go to a gas station and a guy would come out and pump your gas, wash your windows and check your oil..... all for 21¢ a gal. And the only soda and candy was from a vending machine.
This was the most heart stopping episode ever. Every time I saw you putting pressure on the movement sliding around on that staking block I was afraid you were going to accidentally bend or break the centerwheel hitting the shaft against the side of the hole.
When I'm looking at vintage watches on eBay, and they mention broken balance staff, I now realize just how important the little part is. And it's not simply a matter of, "oh just replace it". I see know that there's so much detail in fixing a broken balance staff. Well done!
33:05 I've always been fascinated with all the screws of those beautiful, delicate balance wheels and assume it has to do with giving the part weight and maintaining perfect spinning balance. It would be interesting to see one get set up!
I was a watchmaker in the 60's. The order for disassembling was always; release the power in the mainspring FIRST, then the balance and the pallets. Finally the train wheels. You are asking for BIG trouble otherwise. You putting a new staff in was balance was top notch though. I always look forward to your posts.
Very low risk to take out the balance first, there isn't anything realistic that could happen there. Taking out the pallet next on the other hand would be badddd
How could you feasibly take the pallet out before the train? The pallet is buried under the train...
@@ebmusicman84 The pallet fork isn't "under" the train, it is literally the end of the train in as much as it holds the escape wheel from incrementing with each swing of the balance. With the balance removed, you'd simply unscrew the pallet bridge (releasing the pallet fork) and in an instant the entire stored load of the main spring would run through the train. As Marshall says: "...it would be badddd."
@@ebmusicman84 You can see in the video that he put the pallet fork in right before the balance, so you could also take it out before the train.
@@WristwatchRevival I have to respectfully disagree with you there, Marshall. Once the power is removed and the balance, removing the pallet is safe, and then you can check the train of wheels for any problem, before you disassemble it. Especially useful when you are diagnosing a faulty movement, I find.
And I thought getting deep into a car tear down was stressful, you my friend are a mad scientist and I would of never thought that two of my favorite channels would be watching a man fix watches and another channel where a man cleans these huge rugs people have in their homes, great videos, awesome job very entertaining.
The thought I had while watching this video is that it was like servicing an integrated circuit!
Lol I like those filthy rug cleaning vids also😁
@@variousbirdspecieshahaha ITS crazy to enjoy that but it's so relaxing and amazing how dirty they are but don't look it , in most cases.
The smallest watch I've ever seen was the one that my grandmother used to wear on her nursing uniform. It was pinned on the shirt, and had a 2" chain. At the end of the chain was a pendant the size of a pinky nail. Inside that pendent was a watch that was upside down with the case. The purpose was that she could look down at her chest and see the time for taking pulses. She retired 40 years ago, and I haven't even thought about it since.
Wow!
My great-grandma had a similar watch. About the size of the one in the video, but same concept, pinned to her shirt upside down for easy looking. She worked on telephone routing boards back in the day.
In 1929, Jaeger-LeCoultre created the Calibre 101, specially to fit the diminutive jewellery watches that were all the rage at that time. This tiny rectangular movement has 98 parts, and it measures 14 x 4.8 x 3.4 mm. It weighs a gram, and it is manually-wound, with 33 hours power reserve. Its rectangular shape makes it ideal for inclusion in jewellery pieces, but it has remained very much a collector’s item. Jaeger-LeCoultre still have the capability of making it, but from 1929, only about 2,000 have ever been made. Queen Elizabeth II possesses at least two: she wore one on her Coronation Day, and Jaeger-LeCoultre presented her another, in a diamond bracelet watch similar to that piece, for her Diamond Jubilee. Today their range includes the Joaillerie 101 Résille, reference 2823326, in which the movement is set in a bracelet of blue and pink sapphires.
found this on google
Have to say, yours was the first watch restoration (revival!) channel that was recommended and it is still the best I have found so far. Watched a few other channels and no one else seems to want to talk through the process the way you do. I have learned SO much from watching and listening to you work on watches, even if I never try to do the same (have to admit, you almost make it look easy). So, a huge thank you, sir!
I'm a 6'9ft giant with hands like shovels watching you repair and work on watches is just so amazing for me to watch and I love it how you take us on a journey while you work on it.....keep on posting this
That's about 206cm for everyone who doesn't live in that one country ;-) "Giant" describes it well!
@jokepp freedom units are best units :3
Hi Marshall. No one have never impressed me as much as you did with this video. Trust me, I’ve been working with microsurgery and it’s not even close to your work. I just put back to work my grandpa’s Orient wristwatch. I did it inspired by you. Thanks!!!
Thank you! And congrats on your movement getting together!
Trust me no one have never impressed me working with microsurgery. It's not even close to my grandpa's Orential watch. Thanks!! I did it as you did!! Marshall microsurgury. Hellow?
I kept finding myself holding my breath when you were working on that balance ... I can't imagine what you were feeling. Really amazing work and very satisfying results. Bravo!
I like how the yoke spring (at least in this case) looks like a stylized 'R'. Also I kinda blame you for me looking on ebay for pocket watches to disassemble, buying one, and liking it too much to take it apart!
You can buy a Seagull ST3600, which is pretty good copy of an ETA 6497 pocket watch movement. They are cheap and great value for money, and are great for practising on. Once you are finished with working on it you can stick it into a Panerai style wristwatch case and wear it on your wrist.
You sound like you foster puppies.
@@chubbydinosaur9148 Those would most likely be pin lever watches and not worth practicing on.
This is where a 3d printer really comes into its own. Make a pair of jaw liners to grab a movement that small. Personally, I'd use TPU for the liners; it's basically a synthetic rubber. A soft plastic.
My friend is getting one and I am going to have him make me a bunch of stuff
Now THAT is some impeccable micro-craftsmanship you did to get that beautiful tiny machine going again, Marshall. Your narrations are great, too..logical and therapeutically soothing to listen to. Thanks for sharing. : - )
Just finished my first project, a mantel clock and appreciate your videos helping me. The only problem I had was that I ended up with 2 extra washers that I can't figure out where they belong. The clock is working though so I got that going for me 👍
I don’t know what it is but every time I take something apart and put it back together I almost always have at least one screw or washer or something left over and the thing works fine. I guess I’m just more efficient than the original manufacturer
Would love to see a listing of the amount of time each step takes. Things like disassembly, cleaning, reassembly, specialty work like the balance wheel work, jewel lubrication, etc. and shipping of parts. Just curious. Wonderful video.
Simply amazing that they could produce this watch back in the day. From my manufacturing and quality control background, the tolerances on these microscopic parts are insane. Just a work of art and a wonderful example of the machinist’s talent. So cool.
They put a man on the moon before this watch was built. What are you 10 years old?
When i first moved to L.A. 30 years ago there was an old Couple from Germany that owned & ran a store selling & and servicing Time Pieces. The Store- there for 30 years - was right near Ventura & Van Nuys Blvds .i lived near and
visited often. The aged husband was a Master Watch Maker ; trained in Switzerland... who's final examination before Certification entailed being given a block of metal and Every part off a functioning , beautiful Time Piece/Watch had to be produced /Machined etc. , Entirely from that block of metal, By the prospective 'Master' to certified as such. i think of him often when i have handled such impossibly tiny works of art as every piece and part of these watches are. To have his capacity and ability is truly 'Next Level'.
Made very evident by the clear enlargements in these thoughtful Videos.
You and Mark by far have the clearest and best magnification methods of any of the other watch channels I have watched. Thank you!
Nice. I've watched many of your videos. I just had my better half's 50 odd year old Raymond Weil ladies watch serviced by a guy in Glasgow .It had never ever been serviced since new and of course the lubricants had turned into gunk. It's a tiny ladies watch like that Rolex but with an oval face. The guy did a great job and it now runs great and keeps really good time. I was very surprised and delighted at the price he quoted for the job and it came back from his shop looking like new waith a one year written guarantee. I have another job for him, my dad's 1970's Bernex Barracuda automatic watch. It runs but only after being on my wrist for a while to wam up the lubricants. I think it's well overdue a service.
I suppose you haven't seen Chaika 1200. 9×12.5×3 mm mechanism total size (yes, rectangular), 17 jewels, only hour and minute hands, no apparent shock protection, were manufactured in 1964-1968, mostly in a gold-plated case, exterior size 10×15 mm. The band was separable, either metal gold-plated or leather. I have one without a band. Can fit four of those in case across a Xiaomi Mi6 smart band, or, I guess, six on a face of an Apple Watch 42. Opens similarly to this Rolex, the mechanism is removed completely. I suppose that this specific model of Rolex, or its relative, was an inspiration for Soviet watchmakers in Uglich, Yaroslavl region, Russia back then. There was another tiny Chaika mechanism, slightly bigger than the 1200, in three editions - a pendant, a wristwatch, and a finger ring watch; the pendant being the rarest kind of case. I have the wristwatch with bracelet, also in running condition (but not sure if it runs any good).
I wish I had an opportunity to give the Chaika 1200 to you to peruse, for service (I had it serviced locally, it runs, but not sure how well) and case replating, but considering what Russian president does now and how the rest of the world reacts to it, it's zero options for me to send it to you from Moscow and then get back.
Fantastic job!
Aside from seeing how you overcome those watch issues, the other excitement is also seeing those unique tools you used. It seems like there are more tools we haven’t seen yet.
I have a steel movement holder (Bergeon 4039) that holds movements down to 8,5mm. I guess this should be part of your next tool shopping spree 🙂
+1. The 4039 works great on these tiny movements. The reverse side will hold much larger movements so you can use it as a second holder when working multiple projects. It's not even a one-off tool, in my opinion.
Yeah I feel a bit inclined to believe that more effort could have went into securing and fastening the movement onto the holder than was made. Just a hunch. I honestly believe that it was barely attempted at all.
looks like a bit of careful file work on the painted edges and his would work fine too
@@DONTctVT Is it even painted edges though? I have to admit I didn't look too close and I cba to go back in the video to check, but that thing looked plastic to me. Given that it was included in a set, it makes sense to me that they used the cheapest material they could find for an "extra" tool that isn't the highpoint of the set. 🤷♂
@@Wayazaexa42 it's painted pot metal. You see it all the time with cheap Chinese stuff
Thanks! I love your channel and am learning something new about watches and their movements every episode! Thanks again!
I notice you have a fine audible voice, and even with hearing losses, I understand you quite well.
Put a picture of your work area and yourself in here too, no one seems to know what you look like, but you do seem to have a good sense of humor! Vaya con dios!
I never understood how important that movement holder was until I watched this video. Marshal's skills are exquisite. He as good as you will find on RUclips, and this is the sloppiest I have ever seen him - and that says as much about the process of servicing this watch as it does about his abilities. To be able to complete this without incident, without the holder to help him, is incredible.
Small but girthy. Wow. I laughed when I saw the itty bitty movement holder.
Question: have you ever sneezed at an inopportune time and lost a part or a screw?
Awesome video as always! I'd like to see a video about adjusting/tuning a movement as well, like how in this video he says he fiddled for a while to get the beat error down. Would be really cool to see the steps he takes to improve each of the parameters.
Yes I actually wanted to show that for this one, but it's very very hard to film, and makes the job more risky and I don't like to risk stuff on other people's watches like this one
@@WristwatchRevival You could buy a junk watch for a demo video? It would allow you to get away with mistakes
Marshall stuck with that movement holder far longer than I would have. Equipment failures are so incredibly frustrating. Great video
I know nothing about watches, nor even wear one for most of the time, but I really enjoy watching your movies. I like the commentary, this makes it even more interesting.
the contrasting colors in this movement looks so nice
Marshall I am so glad you mentioned the stress induced by working on such a small watch because I was stressing just watching it. AMAZING work once again my friend.
Marshall so good to see another video from you. The moment you opened the watch case, you just unveiled the soul of the watch that witnessed so many histories so far. Great content and salute to your creativity in craftmanship.
For the movement holder, maybe small little dabs of silicone sealant on the places it touches the movement will make it a little more grippy? Just brush a little on there with your little wooden dowels and let it dry.
I was thinking perhaps some small paper shims that would give you a better grip.....
I probably could have just sanded it down or filed it or something
I'm watching on my laptop and find myself leaning toward the screen lol
Fascinating to watch - At times I forget how small, and then WOW, I see something that brings me back to scale !
Thank you !
The tension was indeed palpable, especially when you worked on the balance. Awesome job!
I wish someone would make a app for virtual reality watch repair. With instructional directions and labeled parts and tools so that a person could learn the trade without fear of destroying a fine watch. Hints would be great too if you get stuck on what to do next.
Quite a good idea, especially when a previously loved Rolex in good repair can be priced well north of $25,000.00.
Wow. I found your channel only recently, but I really enjoy watching. It seems that each video has different challenges which keeps it interesting. This is the first time I have seen a balance wheel repaired. That seems really skillful even with the appropriate tools. Thanks for the videos. PS. you have a great voice for narrating what you are doing.
I live vicariously through your videos, horology is so amazing cool and I love how fiddly and attention detailed it is. That tiny holder was no surprise as struggling to grip, the plastic looks cheap and thus too rounded, too hard for grip and too soft to pinch. And here's hoping it's the smallest you ever work on!
Yes the plastic was very low grade
I found this channel three days ago and I can't stop watching these videos. Such good commentary and camera shots!
The process of the watch restoration is always so fascinating to watch but I think the quality of narration goes overlooked sometimes. I get so engaged in what is being said and it feels like he is talking as he is working. Every time I watch a video I forget that the narration is dubbed in until the “fast forwarded” cleaning phase. Excellent work. Please keep it up.
Man I was just about to call it a night (1:43am here in south TX), saw you just released a new vid, and now my sleepiness is all gone lol love your work good sir!
Unfortunately, I lack the self control to wait until a reasonable hour to watch this, so I'm in the same boat!😂
Night owls UNITE! lol
Interesting. My grandma owned the Tudor version of this watch; literally identical but for the name on the dial -- also in 14k (as usual, Tudor used Rolex cases and bracelets, with ebauche movements often from Felsa or ETA). Omega was also particularly well known for this specific style of tiny mesh band + "gem crystal" watch in this era. These little cocktail pieces were extremely popular in the 60s-70s, as an evolution from the more angular, embellished, rope-strapped cocktails of the 40s and 50s. As far as tiny or least super thin watches, you haven't lived until you've worked on a Concord Delirium... Never again.
My mother got the Omega version of this watch. Exact same, except for the Omega logo on the face. She got it when I was born in 1972.
It runs to this day (and has never been serviced).
@@jarls5890 You should really get that serviced if it's going to be used at all, even if it's working currently. Running a watch that old without servicing is like running a car without engine oil -- just a bit slower for major damage to become apparent.
So, I got my first pocket watch to start tinkering with, and couldn't believe how small the parts are in real life. They look bigger on the TV I have as my monitor.
This entire movement is smaller than my mainspring barrel! Yeah, something this small is definitely not for beginners.
But, as always, another brilliant video from Marshall. I really appreciate how the narration feels like it's happening in real time. But it's not, so there's not a lot of hemming and hawing. It flows.
What have you done to me? I'm literally waiting for a cannon pinion remover so I can continue the service of my pocket watch.
muahahah :)
I just finished dismantling and putting back together a 17 jewel Elgin Sportsman wristwatch with a Seiko 66 movement. It was so incredibly tiny!! It was my first attempt at working with a movement and I should have listened to your advice on pocket watches for beginners! This was cheapest mechanical movement I could find, just to get my feet wet. Difficulty aside, I was able to get it completely apart and back together again in functioning condition! I didn't work on the mainspring at all however. I don't have a winder and didn't want to ruin my chances at seeing it run after reassembly if i messed up the mainspring trying to hand-rewind. Thanks for the videos and inspiring a new hobby! Incredibly difficult but very rewarding experience!
A real skill demonstration. Not many people would be able to do this repair these days. Congrats.
I'm betting the reason that smaller holder won't work is because of the plastic not gripping. I bet if you glued bits of that grip padding that's used under rugs and whatnot, it would solve your problem and make it usable in the future. Cheers!
I'm staggered that well before computer tech was available, those tiny parts & screw-threads could EVEN be manufactured to such obvious close-tolerances!
They have had magnifying glasses for several hundred years. So it's not surprising that they could build such small ones.
@tradde11 very careful work. Good lighting and paying close attention to each piece.
That's a given though ... Lighting, magnification & steady hands ... but how on earth were those fine thread parts ever engineered in such exacting tolerance?
@tradde11 oh yes! There might be someone who does it as a hobby. I would check u tube and f.b.to start with
Hi Marshall, another great repair! Just a quick question about getting the balance in beat after major disassembly like that... when reassembling, how do you know where the roller table and balance spring should go in relation to one another? Are they marked in some way, or is it a case of trial and error?
I had this question as well. Because the hairspring connects to the balance bridge which sets the angle the balance sits relative to the pallet forks (I think?) but how do you know where that roller table goes.
I basically just started over and put the roller wherever, and then eyeballed the balance spring collet/stud orientation. As you saw, it was way off so I had to adjust it.
This is why it's absolutely imperative to mark the underside of the balance wheel of where the impulse jewel is prior to removing the roller table.
To be honest with modern tech nowadays one could also use a camera. I still mark the underside which saves you a massive headache later.
I was super surprised to see it fire up after the roller was placed at random but I guess that is a lottery win or video editing :)
The smallest and difficult job I've seen you in, but also proff you're getting so good in that. Amazing job, so entertainment.
Hey Marshall, just today I took my everyday Waltham Riverside pocket watch (1913) in for a cleaning. I use it all the time because it was my great grandmother's and I wanted to keep the connection alive. But while I was packing it up I found my wife's old Seiko square dress watch and I think it might be a competitor to your 'smallest movement' item. It is oval measuring 12 mm x 16 mm. Incredible. Still runs just fine but she doesn't like its appearance so she let me have it. If you'd like a pic I can take one... doug, Guelph Ontario.
I am in absolute awe at how small a mechanical movement can be made!
Edit: I decided to see just how far people have pushed miniaturization of watch movements, and it turns out Jaeger-LeCoultre's Calibre 101 movement is almost as small across as a matchstick! absolutely insane.
I enjoy your videos a lot and I admire your patience and steady hands.
Here's one suggestion: Try to capture the sound of the ticking clock once it's running again. This will be so satisfying.
I did on a couple of bigger watches! I'll try more on the smaller ones too :)
Out of all the watches you have repaired this is by far my favourite It looks so elegant I like that the bracelet goes into the case 10/10
That one turned out beautifully after getting cleaned...it's amazing how much a good servicing makes a watch gleam...
I really love the crystal and band for this tiny watch. Really beautiful. I'm glad you stepped outside your comfort zone and fixed the balance staff.
Great job, I love how you narrate the job afterwards but use language as if you're talking at that present moment
I'm a watchmaking / repairing hobbyist and did pick up a even smaller mechanical watch on a flea market which is set into a ring (finger ring...). Crazy those little tickers...
You got me with that Dornblüth. My absolute grail.
Who would have that I would watch five hours of watch repair in one day. I have to compliment you on your ability to keep the interest going, skill of watch repair, and the beauty of recording your projects. Just plain awesome all the way around. You have kept me interested to the point I would love to try this some day, that is if I can see long enough to try. Keep up the good work and thanks for sharing your skills with us.
I bought a Waltham 645, 21 Jewel, Railroad Pocket Watch from a Colorado seller with 18,000 feedbacks.
Watch is 16 size (case diameter 49 mm). The movement is a grade 645, lever set, 21 jewel, raised jewel settings, gold center wheel, micrometer regulator, and adjusted to 5 positions. It is running and the seller's feedback on watches and the like is very good, so I'm confident it will be a decent watch like I was looking for, but also you have a video on one of these exact watches so that will be a great guide for me to dive into it.
I'm going to buy a few of the basic tools your other video outlines- screw drivers, tweezers and so forth, nothing fancy or expensive, and see what I can do with the watch.
Wow, the fear? anticipation? while you work is just great. I feel your joy when you figure out a problem and solution! Thank you.
That work on the balance wheel was truly something special. Great work, Marshall!
Thank you! I appreciate it
Great video Marshall! To fix the movement holder, maybe take a file and make sure there are no rounded edges on the jaws were the movement is sitting. I think it has enough clamping force in it, but it was just being squeezed out! Not as precisely made as the milled 90 degree angles of the nicer ones.
I'll add that I don't know what the hell I'm talking about, but I think it may work. See you in the next one!
That dornblüth watch is incredible! Not to mention a piece of unbelievably detailed craftsmanship from what must be one of the finest independent watchmakers in the world!
I'm so glad you mentioned the screw that tightened the opposite way. I was debating whether the video might be mirror image or something weird.
I have watched many of your restoration videos on Infinity-RUclips, and you can't participate with comments. It is amazing how small the screws are, I wonder how they were made, especially back in the eighteen hundreds. Thank you for your videos. I can't wait to see this one, I was wondering what it would be like to do a small Lady's watch... Thank you again. I just finished watching the video, all I can say is, Awesome. Another point to note, you have a fabulous narrating voice, easy and smooth..., it too keeps one interested..
Beautiful job. And a beautiful watch. Glad you was able to fixed it
I have no idea how you remember how to put it back together let alone take it apart without damaging it or losing a part. Excellent work and thanks for sharing.
I need to watch this on my tv,, not my phone. I want to see the intricacies and this tiny screen does that tiny cluster of gears no justice. Great work.
Im learning from you Marshall! At 5:19, when you undo the screw on on the balance bridge, I saw the balance wheel move and thought, “Oh oh, I bet the balance staff’s gone”. You sir are an educator!
I was having my quartz watch repaired for minor scuffs, and I noticed the watchmaker were servicing an automatic mechanical watch. It was a normal watch but I managed to grasp the actual size of these watch parts, which is ridiculously small. These videos made them looks bigger than how it supposed to be.
Update : When I put my (I thought) long lost mechanical pocket watch for repair this morning, the watchmaker was repairing a watch similar size to that watch in this video. It. Was. Unbelievably small. The balance was so tiny! I thought the balance in my watch already tiny but that is micro sized. How do they made watches like that? With precision!
You are amazing. You just revived a watch smaller than your thumb nail. How cool is that. Thank you.
Just discovered your channel. My grandfather had an Omega fob watch like the one on your channel and seeing your work gives me hope of finding a guy like you to have a go at it. So nice to see a non-throwaway discipline.
WOW! ...holding my breath there a couple of times with that balance wheel shaft. GREAT JOB as usual!
I would be particularly interested, in some videos like this, what some parts like that cost, how hard or easy those parts are to get (and origin) and the value of the watch.
MEZMORIZING VIDEO...thanks again Marshall keep em comin...👍
Definitely started my journey watching you...I believe the beat error could be the position of the hair spring collet in conjunction with the balance
Marshall, maybe the reason this holder does not hold the watch tight is because you have one side of the holding side? plate? on the crown. Rotate the watch so that the crown is not where the holding thing is.
Dornblüth & Sohn are at the very top of my list! I saw one in person at a watch show in SF and was floored by the craftsmanship. Some day soon I hope!
This was such a riveting video in more than one sense of the word. I was so impressed that you manage to fix that balance. An impressive show of your skill and dedication to restoring beautiful timepieces.
Marshall, we started watching you about 2 months ago and my husband, 75, was inspired to take a Bulova 23 watch in to be repaired a month ago. It was built in 1954 and given to him brand new in 1955 when he was 7 years old (too much watch for a little kid but it was given by an uncle who died shortly after and he loved it). The watch had not run for WAY more than 50 years, the crystal was cracked, and the stem had fallen out at some point. He paid $300 to a local jeweler and got it back in 2 weeks. It looked great!! Then we noticed it was losing time...about 20 minutes every 24 hours...and the face was dirty! I mean, it had specks of something on it that were not there before he took it in! He took it back to the guy yesterday and I told The Hub if he doesn't fix it and clean it better this time, I'll do it myself! 😅🥰
Send it to master Marshall. That would be awesome, don't you think?
Can say enough positive things about you channel and how amazing you’re workmanship is … also you have to be a teacher and wish you had a classroom. I would attend every class you had .. so enjoyable to listen to and watch work… keep up the good work.. wish there was more interesting and knowledgeable people like yourself on RUclips… so close to perfection for me … also love that your not just fixing only big name brands..
I almost passed out from holding my breath watching this! I must say, it was riveting!! I love this stuff!!
I have one smaller, it looks like someone dug it up in their backyard. I kept it because the mechanics wernt froze up. Cant make out the name.
It's fun seeing how these little machines go together and function, good channel.
The D. Dornbluth and Sohn is one of my favorite watches. And that engraved numerals and markers are stunning. Just a fantastic example of fine watchmaking.
And also a fantastic job is what you sir are doing with each and every video that you post.
Patience is a virtue, and you’ve got plenty of it. Question: Does anyone know of any videos that show the production of the minute screws and parts? I’ve looked up videos but haven’t found one that shows how these really small parts are made. I’m in awe of how a screw is threaded when I have problems seeing the item in the first place. Thanks. 👍🏻🇦🇺😁
... the balance staff repair - WOW !
Total respect for an awesome job on a challenging restoration ... bravo !
How lucky are your extended family members with watch servicing needs! Not only do they get a more thorough service than at some professional establishments, but they get a memorial video detailing the inner workings of their treasured piece to keep for all time.
Marshall,
You have some very serious skills and I should know. My career has been spent doing very precise electronic rework. I do rework on wire smaller than human hair and on stacking 01005 components (ultra small). You have the focus and skill of a master. That is a very small community.
My ex-wife has a 1970's "Seiko" ladies ' bead bracelet' (manual wind) watch. Each bead in the bracelet measures only 7mm dia. Into one of these 'beads' is inserted a tiny (7 jewels) Seiko Movement. only 50% (or less) the size of the Rolex you've just worked on - this would truly test your mettle. It still works & keeps reasonably good time, although it has never been serviced.
What a beautiful little watch, like how you include us the viewers and including us as part of the journey of repair, when it's your skill and knowledge that actually carries out the repair. If it was me, knowing my luck, everything would have been on the floor as I would have not been looking and knocked it off the table. 😂
The tedium of watch services and the MTG mat imply that you play blue mana. The way you pop bubbles however implies you play red mana. All jokes aside, I love your videos! Keep up the amazing work!