Hey Adam, I think most of us who watch your channel have the $20 eBay watch repair kit. Maybe a crystal press. Would you consider doing a short video on the “next level” of tools? Without spending $1000 on Swiss tools…. Better screwdrivers? Tweezers? The important uses for peg wood? Human saliva for enzymatic action on dials?? Thanks- I love your stuff and will be supporting you shortly.
Although I will never have the financial means (let alone enough remaining time on the planet 😐) to engage in this fascinating hobby, I find something along the peaceful lines of Zen watching these well used and even abused miniature mechanical marvels come back to life in spectacular fashion. Your detailed and entertaining narrative lets me feel a bit of the intense love for the subject that you so obviously have. I also really appreciate your including those of us who only sit, watch and wonder at the process while not being hobbyists ourselves. There is an integrity to your inclusion of the sideways adventures when they occur ("No excuses, this is real life") that is refreshingly honest. Thank you so much for all of the hard work you put into these restorations and the many hours of filming and editing that make them so fascinating! 👍
I REALLY like 👍 your hour and a half videos on watches. They are so intricate and detailed. No skipping ⏭️ quickly from 1️⃣ part of the video to another. Just an all out, step-by-step video!! Your friend, Jeff.
Thank you Jeff, I don't really know any other way of doing it! I see some 30 minute rebuild videos and wonder how they manage to show everything! My OCD is on overdrive when I'm editing a video, haha! I really hope you'll like the next one. I have finally finished the watch after nearly 20 days of fault finding, waiting on parts to arrive, etc. This next one is not the most complicated watch ever shown on the channel, but it probably had the most work done to it. I've been on an editing marathon this weekend, and am only about 1/2 finished with the rough edit thus far! It's going to be a long one, but pretty detailed. I hope you enjoy it.
@@WeekendWatchRepair It was such a great 😊 video that I fell asleep 😴 like 👍 5 minutes into it. I like 👍 these old watches, especially with the day/date feature. They’re also automatic, or manually wound 🆙. Although it may sound like 👍 a convenient way to have your watch parts secure, one ☝️ enemy of watches, is getting them near a magnet 🧲. This makes the gears very clingy (magnetized), and the watch will stop 🛑, when put back together. Also, don’t bend the hairspring, or break the end of it off of the balance wheel. This will require hairspring replacement (if bent), and/or a very painstaking soldering job, to reattach the hairspring to the balance wheel. Also, never 👎 let a wind-up watch unwind at full speed to power down the mainspring. This could ruin the gear train 🚂, causing additional, and very expensive repair 🧑🔧. Your friend, Jeff.
Thank you so much. This is the second time I watched this video, only because I finally picked up my own June 1975 6138-0049 Bullhead. Albeit, it's a bit rough cosmetically, but it runs well and is still accurate. Nothing that a new mineral crystal and a light spit and buffing cannot fix.
I prefer the longer videos. As for how crudy that once beautiful Seiko looked when you broke it down, all I can say is wow. I have one of my Seikos here on my desk, (I just took it off), and it's 44 years old, and still looks like new. It is all original. My other Seiko's look the same. I just ordered a Seiko 5 military watch I hope to have soon. I bought my first Seiko back in 1970 and never looked back. I just LOVE Seiko watches.
I have to disagree on the date issue of the dial and case back. I think these two did belong to each other the dates were within a year and that happens in watches that are in serial production everything more then a year would raise suspicion with me but within a year I would say they belong together.
Apologies if this has been pointed out before, at 1:03:40 you mention that the hammer spring is not fitting around the post properly. Note that the hammer spring is not intended to fit around the barrel/train bridge post, rather there should be another post coming off of the pillar wheel jumper close by, but from the video it appears that your movement may be missing the pillar wheel jumper post. It may be that the spring was good after all. Thank you for the very informative video, great help to us weekend tinkerers!
I dont do watch repair but love watching watch videos, i do own a few seiko watches, automatics and kinetics (perpetual). I also watch a lot of electronics repair videos, camera and lighting is just very difficult while filming that close or under a microscope so for me it is not a bother at all, i am just grateful of even able to watch this diverse of content on watch repair and service (and electronics). I have to say, i very enjoy your videos and thank you for making them.
Very kind of you to say. Thank you very much. I'm hopeful that my more recent videos are a bit better (photography wise) than this one from 6 months ago. I've tried to absorb as much knowledge as I can about how to light and film in macro, and I feel that my last few videos have had a bit better quality. You are right, it is very difficult although I am enjoying learning as I move forward. I appreciate you watching and leaving a comment.
I’ve loved watches since my Grandmother bought me a Mickey Mouse watch in 1964. I have collected many watches especially Railroad watches. I spent 40 years working for the railroad. The seiko bullhead was popular in school and I’ve always wanted one. Love your videos and your craftsmanship. You’re also very humble and that’s a great quality.
The Mickey Mouse watch is only iconic due to its branding and popularity. That is a cheaply-made pin-pallet watch with few or no jewels if I remember right. Due to the single bridge design, It is actually harder to service compared to more expensive watches. Then, to top it all off, you can't really check the watch's health due to the difference in escapement from what most watches have. The Timegrapher uses audio/acoustics and a small computer of sorts. So if it can't hear or interpret the noises, it can't tell you how it is running and gets confused.
@@PlumGurly Really? I could give a shit less what you think! Did I say it needs repaired? Did I say it was rare? No! I just said it was my first watch my grandmother gave me! It had meaning to me in 1964! It was my first watch! She passed away 6 months later so it’s meaningful! I don’t give a shit if it’s worth a nickel! Most of my collection is Swiss watches, the only reason I commented on the “Bullhead” is I would put one in my collection.
Again, nice work. You obviously have studied the technical guide as you know how to setup the eccentric screws. Regarding the shake on the center wheel, I usually mount the wheel and bridge and check as you did in the vid. You can also take your air blower and blow some air across the wheel, It should spin freely. If it appears to get hung up, inspect the condition of the jewels top and bottom and possibly open up the end shake a bit as you did in the vid. One tip for cutting that lollypop off the end of the replacement sweep hand is to buy yourself a set of large straight edge nail clippers. Give a nice clean cut on the end of the sweep hand without the need to go back and dress it later. Also a great tool for tightening cannon pinions.
Thanks for the comment. You are correct regarding the technical manuals. Since they are available for those Seiko movements, I felt it would be silly not to study them! They provided some insights that I otherwise wouldn't have noticed when I first started working on them. Regarding the end shake, I will also test with an air blower as you described. On a side note, aside from the Pogue and Bullhead videos that I've uploaded, I went back and checked my photos and videos on my previous 6138 and 6139 rebuilds, and all of those had the hammer spring installed correctly! I don't know what in the world I was thinking when I did those two watches, but I'm going to be correcting both of them today! I appreciate you noticing that on the Pogue video.
This video showed up in my recommendations, so I put it in my "watch later" list...and I am glad I did! It took me less thank 10 minutes to decided I needed to be a subscriber. Your video quality is great and your commentary is exactly what I look for. Interesting narration is what makes the videos interesting and useful as a learning tool. Keep up the great work.
First off, I love your long form videos. They are a great play, and very educational. Secondly, I love, LOVE Bullheads. I am hoping to be able to afford one soon. It's the next step for me in my collection.
Beautiful job! So I've got a JDM one (orange chrono seconds hand) and watch is lumed but looks like the minute and hour hands were replaced as the minute hand in particular is too short and I'd like to replace these. So I link to your source would be awesome. I find short hands rather annoying. It's a lovely piece but also my case has been over polished on the bottom portion at 6 pm. Actually thinking of a full overhaul.
Great video! Thanks for all the detail, especially the part where the timegrapher traces were poor. I night have tossed it back in the drawer after that and wrote it off, lol. Nah, but it's really encouraging to see that and see the solution.
Glad it helped! Things don't always go smoothly, and tracking down issues is just part of the process. It isn't always the most exciting to watch, but it is necessary to get the watch running correctly. I'm glad you liked it!
Thank you for the detailed explanation of how you handle the quickset mechanism! I was having lots of trouble getting that piece back together again and this video was a lifesaver!
I noticed something as I was working on another part of my 6138, the replacement hammer spring (item 44 from the service manual) you were having difficulties with was looped around the wrong post before hooking the straight end into its place. It doesn’t loop around the post that the chronograph screws into, but the shorter post just next to it. It’s technically possible to get the spring around the chronograph bridge screw post, but it is very very difficult to do and I could understand how you’d think someone had sold you an aftermarket part.
Thank you. The world needs more of your level of humanity and care with these mechanical marvels. I chanced upon several 6138's and this will be a valued video to guide me through a forest. I wish I could help with the field of view focus issues, but I'm more hopeless at photography than the average guy.
Thanks for watching. I was hesitant at first as well, but once I got a few of them under my belt, they aren't too terribly complicated. Best of luck getting yours taken care of.
hello, i am learning this hobby with you, thank you for taking the time to explain all the steps , can you post where are all these illustrations that you post? again thank you
Superb content my friend, I wondered if you’d be kind enough to tell me what microscope you’re using at all? I feel that might be a next step for my own watch journey? Huge huge thanks for the content, knowledge and inspiration
Thoroughly enjoyed watching the entire video. I’m new to modding watches and trying to learn. I got the bug about 3 months ago. I don’t have a watch now and haven’t worn one for over 20 years. I want to build my own since so many parts are available and videos to aid skill development. Funny how you bump into something that can totally consume you. Thanks for sharing. Cheers
I just discovered your channel and this is the first video I found. I like your style and in-depth explanation of what you're doing, every step of the way. You have a new subscriber, based on this one video alone. Thank you for sharing your work.
Great vid Adam! You mentioned saving time. You could take out cleaning and explain it’s in other videos. I’m hoping most people watching are watch fans who maintain watches, this way you can focus in on the fault finding and fixing. I really enjoy your hints and tips regarding fixes. How did you find out the issue with the dirty pallet fork jewels? How did you re clean, anything other than normal? Ta.
Thanks. Regarding the pallet fork jewels, I found it while doing close inspection of the part under a microscope. I buffed the tips of the jewels with a polyurethane tipped cleaning swap until all of the old dried up lubricant and dirt had been removed, then I soaked the part again in One-Dip.
@@WeekendWatchRepair thanks Adam! I’m working on a 1980s Seiko 5 7S26B at the moment. I’m finding the balance spring very annoying. Online guys say the A and B version are much better. Only my second Seiko, the first being a 1965 Sportsmatic 5 6619A who’s quickest date adjuster won’t work (push crown in). All fun and games! I just subscribed, good luck getting to 5k subs!
@@boydsargeant7496Thanks a bunch. Working through those types of things is how we all learn. There's no substitute for experience. I agree, it is fun! There is always more to learn and improve on.
Hi Adam, this video is very informative and helpful for people like me who take on their own projects to learn watchmaking. It is very fascinating hobby I can tell you. All videos on RUclips by famous watch makers are just showing off their tools and cropping the actual content. As matter of fact you have gone every crucial step in this video for us to learn. I appreciate the efforts. where did you get that new bezel . I am trying to find that in the comments as mentioned by you in the video.
Thank you. I try my best to show each step. Regarding the bezel, I got it from the Seikosis.com website. He has the inserts in stock most of the time. The steel bezel itself is in stock on occasion. If it isn't on their website it might be worth contacting them to see if they have one that just hasn't been posted or if it is listed only on their eBay store.
Great video. I'm in the process of restoring a 6138-0017 (yachtmaster) and realy can use some guidance. (The most complicated I did so far.) Can you tell me what mainspring you did use? Ebay does not have many mainsprings for this type any more. regards, and keep on making video's. 🙂
CousinsUK - part number GR25341X. They will show the GR2534X as the correct part, but the inner coil is a bit too large. The GR25341X will fit it correctly. Hope this helps.
Thank you. Your commentary is the icing on the cake. Helps people like me to learn and understand the intricacies of watch restoration. I'll never be in the position to purchase a Seiko 61' series, but have used much of your processes on my 6309, 6319 and 7009 series. So pleased to be a subscriber
Fantastic video! I'm an aspiring hobbyist that has bought a few watches where the eBay sellers were less than honest about their state (I've got 2x 6139s, black & brown bullheads, and the yachtsman). Great to see you tearing into it and hope I can be half that knowledgeable someday.
Thanks Austin. I'm a hobbyist as well. You'll be there soon, just keep working at it and make sure to read through the service manual. It helps, especially on your first few 6138/6139's, to have it on hand as a quick reference. Once you get a few of those Seiko chronograph movements under your belt you'll be very comfortable working on them.
@@WeekendWatchRepair Many thanks! I'll definitely be watching more and referencing. Seiko is my favorite brand so great to see them torn apart and methodically explained!
Nice work! I discovered your channel while on my own watchmaking journey as a hobbyist myself. I have yet to dive into that many Seiko''s, I have mainly been playing around with Swiss watches from the 1930s-1950s. Found a killer deal on a few Tissot's from 1944 that have my attention. I have always loved these Bullheads, I may have to pick one up after watching your videos! Keep it up :) It's inspiring to see. Maybe post up a tool list in the description so I can easily purchase any missing tools that may come up.
First off, your have a great user name! I also started mainly on Swiss watches, but soon started working on a bunch of Japanese watches because they offered great value for the price. I could find project watches relatively inexpensively, and the more I worked on them the more I really liked them. I'm officially a vintage Seiko fan at this point. I still do work on a lot of Swiss movement though, and have a few still sitting in my project bin waiting for their turn on the bench. I'd really like to see those 1940's Tissot's you mentioned. I am a fan of the brand and a lot of their older stuff is really great. If it in any way helped push you towards getting your own Bullhead, than I'd say that the effort was worth it! You definitely won't regret getting one. They are fantastic watches. Lastly, that is a good idea on the tool list. I'll try to document the tools I have and make a list for future videos. I appreciate the suggestion. Thanks for watching!
@@WeekendWatchRepair Appreciate you taking the time to write that nice reply! The only downside to all the watches I generally like to work on is they are all radium lumed dials and hands, I try to be cautious and aware of the dangers. I should really get some kind of hepa filter type setup.
Hi Adam, great video, would like to see a bit more info on how you clean the Balance and the pivot fork , i think the video would be more complete. Keep them coming
As an watch collector and newbie watchmaker I can say, its a tons of tough and cool work you did. One of my Seiko's requires service, but I feel, I grew up for this non earlier than in 3 years...😅
I have never seen a Video like this Lubricating all Key points.& I know how important is proper lubs. That's why I don't buy any automatics I can't see what the Watch maker is doing & that's why automatics are dearer compared to Quartz. So many tiny parts still less accurate. Thank for the Video. Cheers from Down Under.
Will be getting mine done soon I don’t know if I’ll change the dial and bezel it’s still up in the air. This watch is definitely a looker and one of Seikos icons of the late 60’s early 70’s.
You are absolutely right! I can't believe I did that! I appreciate you spotting that. That's going to bug me constantly now, and now I'll have to go back in and fix it. It won't be too terribly difficult to do though.
What a transformation. I just started"repairing"watches myself. I quotate that because I have yet to actually not mess one up in the process! Well i successfully did a pocket watch. All of the others have not been successful. To be fair I've only worked on cheapies that were less than ideal to start but after watching some of these seiko services I doubt I'll ever touch one of those chronos. Man that's a lot parts. I wonder do you have to go back to your videos frequently to know how to put it back together, or have you worked on enough to have figured it all out already? Gorgeous watch and love the work!
Thanks Bill. Before I began filming, I would take photos along the way with the microscope camera to document the disassembly process. On occasion I'd reference them during assembly. It's better to have them and not need them, than to need them and not have them! Regarding these 6138 and 6139 Seiko chronograph movements, I've done enough of them now where I don't need the photos any longer.
Thanks for this video, I do have a bullhead that needs service, I'll follow your instructions. Which camera do you use? In general (for still shots) in order to increase the depth of field you need to reduce the aperture. See if you have the option of playing with the aperture. Thanks again.
Thank you. My regular camera has the ability to adjust the aperture. I've been playing around with a few different settings recently. The camera on my microscope unfortunately does not.
My god that was great video I am just fascinated how many parts this watch has and how they communicate with one another. Yeah that dial was rough I am glad you were able to source another. The end result was beautiful !!!! I am watching $45 stunner now and you commented you watch Marshall on WW Revival . He does a lot of Rolex which unfortunately is out of my price range. I owned a quartz Seiko from the 80s I loved that watch and wore it to death. I have never owned an automatic movement. So I am going to ask if you could do a quartz movement and explain how they work.
Hey! Great video. I just bought a Bullhead for myself and will be going through it with your help. Can you please let me know who you got your parts through for this watch? Especially the bezel insert and dial/hands but also any internals. Thank you so much!
Thank you very much. If you want to email me at WeekendWatchRepair@gmail.com I can give you links to where I bought those items from. I didn't know if I should post them openly in the comments. Thanks.
Subscribed! Great video and terrific commentary throughout. At 42:39 regarding the microscope camera and focusing issues -- I am pretty much going through the same thing! Just curious what microscope, camera, and camera adapter you are using. Also, is the microscope tilted in relation to the tabletop? Mine is, because it's basically the only way to use it comfortably, but it also tilts the focal plane so you end up with issues just like this. Also, just out of curiosity, what is the watch channel you mentioned who always has microscope shots in focus? Chronoglide maybe? Oh and also who is the supplier for the new dial and hands? They look amazing. Kudos for the wonderful video, and can't wait for more content! 🍻
Thanks a bunch. Yes, the channel is Chronoglide. His microscope shots look great. To answer your questions: Microscope - Am Scope - SM-4NTP 7X-45X Camera - HAYEAR Full HD 34MP 2K 1080P Camera Adapter - 0.35X CTV Microscope Adapter Barlow - 0.5X C-CS Adapter - 0.5MM (new addition that helps greatly) The microscope is tilted at a slight angle. I think I've figured out the settings a bit more, and with the new C-CS 5mm adapter I have a bit more range of focus so I'm hopeful it'll be better in future videos Dial and hands came from: Seikosis Thanks for subscribing and the kind words. I'm glad you enjoyed the video.
I just bought one of these, and have it under the microscope now... same deal, swapped out 6139b parts, same missing hammer spring (thanks for that!) repair failures, undeclared issues. Even the crown/stem was from a different watch and hidden in the pics Going to be a lot of work.
Yeah, it's not really surprising I suppose. These watches have really increased in popularity it seems over the past few years. With that comes all of the hatchet jobs, unfinished projects, undeclared issues and misrepresented watches. It's not all bad though. The sense of accomplishment you get when you get the rebuild completed and you have the watch on your wrist is fantastic. Best of luck with your rebuild!
@@njones420Haha. Good to hear. You can also check out the 2 videos I uploaded for the John Player Special. That is also a 6138 movement, but it shows a different order in which that movement can be assembled. You may find it helpful to see a another way of doing it.
@@WeekendWatchRepair Well, I had to rebuild it 5 times due to stupid mistakes ... but now running at +4 seconds, 205* amplitude Thank you very much !! (I couldn't do this for a living, I'd only get 1 watch done a month 🤣)
I know that feeling. It's also the reason I tend to avoid doing commission work, and really only do my own watches, along with some friends and family. The time and labor that I put into each watch is far above what one would be willing to pay to have someone else do it. I haven't really found a way to do it 'efficiently' where the cost I'd charge would be commensurate with the amount of work I put into each piece. Also, I'm not in any sort of rush (time wise) when working on my own watches or friend's watches. They know that this is a hobby of mine and are willing to wait to get the work done. I'd feel bad if I had a 'customer' watch for several weeks before I was able to even start on it.
Thanks for watching! The spring is for an ETA 2892 (and others). CousinsUK part # GR25341X. They are the same exact dimensions as the aftermarket spring that is normally called for on this movement (GR2534X), but with a smaller inner curve that fits the barrel arbor much nicer.
First time viewer, i did like and subscribe. Also, I enjoyed the whole video. Super fun and its tempting me to get into the repairing hobbie too. I have the same watch (Black and Blue color). But in my watch, when the Chronograph stops, the watch stops too. What do you think it could be ? Thank you🙏
Great video. I have my eye on the same watch but the chrono hand doesn’t spring back to the true zero. All over the place. 5 second either direction. Not sure if I can find a competent watch repair who would tackle this issue, but my question is how much should I budget? Is this something that requires a complete rebuild like you show here? Love to get a vintage Seiko to have on the wrist a couple times a month, like appreciating a classic auto. Love your content, cheers
Thank you. As far as pricing for a service, I really don't know what people are charging. I would guess it is at least a few hundred dollars plus parts, but since I've always done them myself, I really don't know what a fair price would be from a watchmaker.
I apologize for the issues with the audio. I’m not sure what happened. On the file I created on my computer, the audio sounds fine and doesn’t chop off parts of my voice. For whatever reason when I uploaded it to RUclips, it might have been re-processed or something, and there is some issues with my voice. I’m also noticing in a couple of spots where the video is grainy for brief moment. I don’t know why that would be. When I play the file on my computer that I uploaded to RUclips, everything seems to be fine. My apologies to everyone if you are experiencing audio issues. I’m only now hearing them for the first time after it’s been uploaded.
@@MidnightWatches Thanks a bunch. I'm wondering if it perhaps is just on my end. I re-watched a few parts of the video from my phone and didn't hear the same audio issues I was getting through my Roku. Who knows, lol!!!
Because of the vertical clutch construction these Seiko and Citizen chronographs should be worn always with running stopwatch to avoid wear and damage at the clutch !
Hi Adam thank you for the informative video nicely done sir. I was wondering if you have the dimensions of the jewels for the conversion and any of the tools required to carry the work out listed anywhere as I’d like to have a go at converting mine next time I’m in there. Thanks again from the UK
Thank you for the kind words. I'm glad you enjoyed the video. Unfortunately I do not know the dimensions of the jewels. The upper barrel bridge jewel in the 6138 is a common upgrade, and you can purchase jewel kits from a few sellers on eBay. Vintage Time Australia sells the bridge jewels, or combos of the both the bridge and main plate jewels for these movements (along with others). I purchase my Seiko jewel upgrade kits from them, or another eBay seller I found in the US. Both have worked very well. I am using a Horia type jeweling tool to do the jeweling work. A real Horia tool and it's pushers can be extremely expensive. I bought a 'clone' Horia tool from Ali Express some time ago and have used it extensively without any issue.
@@WeekendWatchRepair Thanks for your prompt reply Adam I shall do a bit of research. Maybe if you have one in your collection you could service a Seiko Bellmatic on the channel ? Any sorry to take up your valuable time. I’ve subscribed and look forward to your next project. I have a large pile of Seiko spares if you ever need anything. 👍
Thanks so much, I appreciate it. I actually have two Bellmatics set aside for future projects. I actually haven’t done one of those before, so I am looking forward to it. They are my personal watches though, and I have some I’m working on at the moment, including one for the channel, that belong to some friends of mine. I’m trying to prioritize those types first, as my own personal watches can wait until it is convenient. I think one of those two Bellmatics will make for a really good video because it is singularly the most disgustingly dirty watch I have ever opened up! I bought it because it had a very rare dial, and looked halfway decent on the outside. When I opened it up it was another story though. I just closed it back up and put it in the project drawer! I think it would be quite the transformation if I was able to get it going again though. I’m hoping people will like the next video. Without giving it away, it should be quite the transformation between the before and after shots.
@@Binky750B I was just replying to another comment and reread this one. You’ll be happy to know that the next video will be a detailed rebuild of a Bellmatic. I should have it posted next week. Hope you enjoy it.
I would like to know what microscope you are using. I am thinking about delving into this unique hobby and it seems like a microscope would be manditory for my old eyes.
Hi, can you repost where you bought your dial and hands from please. Great video. I recently did my first Pogue and mistakingly lubed the intermediate minute recording wheel. Doh! Cheers. Chris
thank you for the vid! one question when i try to assemble the keyless, after installing quick daydate set and the L shaped level that holds in place, when ever changing the stem mode, from time setting phase to daydate setting phase and winding phase, the quick set tries to jump out I tried everything, the yoke spring and the setting lever plate seem to be in place, but still happens it is working with the L shaped cover plate rotated to the point when it covers the quick setting lever more
Thank you for your detailed videos, they are great and I'll be using them as future reference for servicing my watches. BTW Spencer Klein (www.youtube.com/@SpencerKleinVintageWatch) always recommends to reset the 6138/6139 with the seconds hand as close to the 12 hours as possible, to prevent damaging the hand.
Thanks Agustin. While that is true, I personally feel that if a watch is a chronograph, it should be able to reset in any position. If it would damage the hand resetting it at the 6 o'clock position, than there are problems that need to be addressed. He is technically correct though, and there is less stress on the hand by resetting it close to 12.
About the unbalance of the picture of the Microscope Camera compared to what You see with Your eyes I'd say the Aperture of the Camera is set too large for the ambient light. According to the Laws of Optics the smaller the Aperture the dimmer the picture is and the longer the usable depth of Focus, so to get same image from the Camera to what You see the Aperture of the Camera should be set smaller. This then would also greatly improve the focusing issues. Check the instructions of the Camera if there is a manual setting, but unfortunately most less expensive Cameras are designed to be "easy" to use, thus most of the manual settings have been left out. 😐 There still may be Shutter time setting, so setting a faster Shutter time improves some, but is not as effective as direct Aperture size setting. Probably You end up in getting a new Camera...
I recently starting getting my brass tweezers from Viola Tweezers. They are good quality at a very fair price. My other non-brass tweezers are mostly Dumont.
Haha, I’ve heard that several times now. I don’t know what to say, that’s just what my voice sounds like! It’s a simple USB microphone plugged into my computer. I’m not running any specialized equipment.
hi...what do i do wronge. i put back together my bullhead and the day and date change once on meadknigt next morning 1 o clock next morning 2 oclock and so..thanks
I wish I could help, but that is just something that would have to be looked at. Those are geared to engage at 24 hour intervals. There really isn't anything I can think of that might cause the issue you are describing. Just make sure that you've followed the manual for reassembly, and ensure that you've got your hands oriented and installed correctly. There are 6138 service manuals available for download from several websites. I'd recommend getting a copy of that document and see if you can locate the issue in your watch. Thanks for watching and leaving a comment. I hope you're able to figure out what's causing your issue.
@@benmak3283 The ones that came on the watch were in very poor condition. Since the watch was not original when I received it, I did not have any issues, replacing them with quality aftermarket parts.
@@WeekendWatchRepair I see ! Luckily you got the one , usually spare parts are hard to find ! By the way , I have a question about the numbers on the dial and the back of the case , you said 6 is represent the year 1976 , why it is not 1966 or 1986 ? Thank you to answer my question !
@@benmak3283 You have to know the decade when the watch was made. If you don't know what decade it came from, it could be 1966 or 1986, as you stated. For this particular model of watch, They only made them from 1975 to 1978. Since it is established that this watch was only made in the 70's, that's how one can determine the exact year from those numbers. As long as you can find out what decade it was made in, the serial number and the dial number will tell you exactly when they were built.
I’ve been asked a couple of times. I hadn’t thought about it when I first started the channel, but I suppose it was inevitable. Currently, I do not have a PO box, but I would need to get one set up before I’m able to accept service requests. If you want to send me an email at WeekendWatchRepair@gmail.com and let me know what kind of watch you have, I might be able to provide you with some contact info for a few other watchmakers who could help you out. If you have a Seiko like I have shown in any of my videos, I can give you a few contacts who are very capable of working on those. I’m just unfortunately not set up at this time to take in viewer watches. Perhaps soon though. Thanks!
Don’t remove the parts at 17:02 into the video, like 👍 you’re saying. If ya do remove it, it will suddenly power down the mainspring, possibly ruining the movement of the watch. I’ve done ✅ it, which usually scares the heck out of ya. I don’t know if it did any damage or not, but ruined 😠 gears ⚙️, such as in an expensive watch, can be very difficult 😞, and expensive to replace. Your friend, Jeff.
I would have sent it back to the seller and tell him to stuff it where the sun don’t shine 😢 That’s is why i use paypal and a refund in your account 10 days!
Hey Adam, I think most of us who watch your channel have the $20 eBay watch repair kit. Maybe a crystal press. Would you consider doing a short video on the “next level” of tools? Without spending $1000 on Swiss tools…. Better screwdrivers? Tweezers? The important uses for peg wood? Human saliva for enzymatic action on dials??
Thanks- I love your stuff and will be supporting you shortly.
Although I will never have the financial means (let alone enough remaining time on the planet 😐) to engage in this fascinating hobby, I find something along the peaceful lines of Zen watching these well used and even abused miniature mechanical marvels come back to life in spectacular fashion. Your detailed and entertaining narrative lets me feel a bit of the intense love for the subject that you so obviously have. I also really appreciate your including those of us who only sit, watch and wonder at the process while not being hobbyists ourselves. There is an integrity to your inclusion of the sideways adventures when they occur ("No excuses, this is real life") that is refreshingly honest. Thank you so much for all of the hard work you put into these restorations and the many hours of filming and editing that make them so fascinating! 👍
Thank you so much. I really appreciate your comment.
You don't have to be wealthy to enjoy a good timepiece
It’s crazy how much more complex the 6138 is vs 6139. Awesome video as usual!!
I REALLY like 👍 your hour and a half videos on watches. They are so intricate and detailed. No skipping ⏭️ quickly from 1️⃣ part of the video to another. Just an all out, step-by-step video!! Your friend, Jeff.
Thank you Jeff, I don't really know any other way of doing it! I see some 30 minute rebuild videos and wonder how they manage to show everything! My OCD is on overdrive when I'm editing a video, haha!
I really hope you'll like the next one. I have finally finished the watch after nearly 20 days of fault finding, waiting on parts to arrive, etc. This next one is not the most complicated watch ever shown on the channel, but it probably had the most work done to it. I've been on an editing marathon this weekend, and am only about 1/2 finished with the rough edit thus far! It's going to be a long one, but pretty detailed. I hope you enjoy it.
@@WeekendWatchRepair It was such a great 😊 video that I fell asleep 😴 like 👍 5 minutes into it. I like 👍 these old watches, especially with the day/date feature. They’re also automatic, or manually wound 🆙. Although it may sound like 👍 a convenient way to have your watch parts secure, one ☝️ enemy of watches, is getting them near a magnet 🧲. This makes the gears very clingy (magnetized), and the watch will stop 🛑, when put back together. Also, don’t bend the hairspring, or break the end of it off of the balance wheel. This will require hairspring replacement (if bent), and/or a very painstaking soldering job, to reattach the hairspring to the balance wheel. Also, never 👎 let a wind-up watch unwind at full speed to power down the mainspring. This could ruin the gear train 🚂, causing additional, and very expensive repair 🧑🔧. Your friend, Jeff.
Thank you so much. This is the second time I watched this video, only because I finally picked up my own June 1975 6138-0049 Bullhead. Albeit, it's a bit rough cosmetically, but it runs well and is still accurate. Nothing that a new mineral crystal and a light spit and buffing cannot fix.
Awesome!
I prefer the longer videos. As for how crudy that once beautiful Seiko looked when you broke it down, all I can say is wow. I have one of my Seikos here on my desk, (I just took it off), and it's 44 years old, and still looks like new. It is all original. My other Seiko's look the same. I just ordered a Seiko 5 military watch I hope to have soon. I bought my first Seiko back in 1970 and never looked back. I just LOVE Seiko watches.
I do as well.
I have to disagree on the date issue of the dial and case back. I think these two did belong to each other the dates were within a year and that happens in watches that are in serial production everything more then a year would raise suspicion with me but within a year I would say they belong together.
That’s good info to know. I appreciate you leaving the comment. I kept the original dial, along with everything else.
I have a couple of very old watches that I need new dials for , but I don’t have a dial person yet. Could I get that information for your dial person?
Adam, I read through a bit of comments. Can you reply who you got the dial from? Thanks for your time!
Seikosis - they have an eBay store as well as the website.
Apologies if this has been pointed out before, at 1:03:40 you mention that the hammer spring is not fitting around the post properly. Note that the hammer spring is not intended to fit around the barrel/train bridge post, rather there should be another post coming off of the pillar wheel jumper close by, but from the video it appears that your movement may be missing the pillar wheel jumper post. It may be that the spring was good after all.
Thank you for the very informative video, great help to us weekend tinkerers!
You are correct. I later found that mistake and made a follow up video showing the correct placement of that spring.
What a great job on what is a beautiful watch. Thanks for all the time and effort you spent on this. Well worth my time to watch you do it.
I dont do watch repair but love watching watch videos, i do own a few seiko watches, automatics and kinetics (perpetual).
I also watch a lot of electronics repair videos, camera and lighting is just very difficult while filming that close or under a microscope so for me it is not a bother at all, i am just grateful of even able to watch this diverse of content on watch repair and service (and electronics).
I have to say, i very enjoy your videos and thank you for making them.
Very kind of you to say. Thank you very much. I'm hopeful that my more recent videos are a bit better (photography wise) than this one from 6 months ago. I've tried to absorb as much knowledge as I can about how to light and film in macro, and I feel that my last few videos have had a bit better quality. You are right, it is very difficult although I am enjoying learning as I move forward. I appreciate you watching and leaving a comment.
I’ve loved watches since my Grandmother bought me a Mickey Mouse watch in 1964. I have collected many watches especially Railroad watches. I spent 40 years working for the railroad. The seiko bullhead was popular in school and I’ve always wanted one. Love your videos and your craftsmanship. You’re also very humble and that’s a great quality.
Thank you very much.
The Mickey Mouse watch is only iconic due to its branding and popularity. That is a cheaply-made pin-pallet watch with few or no jewels if I remember right. Due to the single bridge design, It is actually harder to service compared to more expensive watches.
Then, to top it all off, you can't really check the watch's health due to the difference in escapement from what most watches have. The Timegrapher uses audio/acoustics and a small computer of sorts. So if it can't hear or interpret the noises, it can't tell you how it is running and gets confused.
@@PlumGurly Really? I could give a shit less what you think! Did I say it needs repaired? Did I say it was rare? No! I just said it was my first watch my grandmother gave me! It had meaning to me in 1964! It was my first watch! She passed away 6 months later so it’s meaningful! I don’t give a shit if it’s worth a nickel! Most of my collection is Swiss watches, the only reason I commented on the “Bullhead” is I would put one in my collection.
@@leewix7019 What? I was only giving a technical overview. There is no reason to be so hostile. I was just sharing. Nothing else.
Nicely done! I haven't worked on a Seiko mechanical watch, and this video is the perfect guide on what to expect.
I’m so glad you found it helpful. That was my entire goal when starting this channel. Thanks so much.
Again, nice work. You obviously have studied the technical guide as you know how to setup the eccentric screws. Regarding the shake on the center wheel, I usually mount the wheel and bridge and check as you did in the vid. You can also take your air blower and blow some air across the wheel, It should spin freely. If it appears to get hung up, inspect the condition of the jewels top and bottom and possibly open up the end shake a bit as you did in the vid. One tip for cutting that lollypop off the end of the replacement sweep hand is to buy yourself a set of large straight edge nail clippers. Give a nice clean cut on the end of the sweep hand without the need to go back and dress it later. Also a great tool for tightening cannon pinions.
Thanks for the comment. You are correct regarding the technical manuals. Since they are available for those Seiko movements, I felt it would be silly not to study them! They provided some insights that I otherwise wouldn't have noticed when I first started working on them. Regarding the end shake, I will also test with an air blower as you described.
On a side note, aside from the Pogue and Bullhead videos that I've uploaded, I went back and checked my photos and videos on my previous 6138 and 6139 rebuilds, and all of those had the hammer spring installed correctly! I don't know what in the world I was thinking when I did those two watches, but I'm going to be correcting both of them today! I appreciate you noticing that on the Pogue video.
One of the best videos I’ve seen, very informative, attention to detail is spot on also, thankyou for taking the time and sharing 👍
Amazing video, had a blast watching it. That replacement dial is beautiful, any chance you could tell me where you bought it from.
I'm glad you liked the video. I purchased the dial from: Seikosis.com
I love Seiko vintage. Bravo and Domo Arigato.
Thank you.
This video showed up in my recommendations, so I put it in my "watch later" list...and I am glad I did! It took me less thank 10 minutes to decided I needed to be a subscriber. Your video quality is great and your commentary is exactly what I look for. Interesting narration is what makes the videos interesting and useful as a learning tool. Keep up the great work.
Thanks so much!
The longer the video the better for me,very enjoyable,thank you Adam
Excellent video, entertaining and educational, Thank You.
I'm glad you enjoyed it. Thank you.
First off, I love your long form videos. They are a great play, and very educational. Secondly, I love, LOVE Bullheads. I am hoping to be able to afford one soon. It's the next step for me in my collection.
I know where you are coming from! When I first across a Bullhead I knew right then I'd have one in my own collection one day.
Beautiful job! So I've got a JDM one (orange chrono seconds hand) and watch is lumed but looks like the minute and hour hands were replaced as the minute hand in particular is too short and I'd like to replace these. So I link to your source would be awesome. I find short hands rather annoying. It's a lovely piece but also my case has been over polished on the bottom portion at 6 pm. Actually thinking of a full overhaul.
Feel free to email me at WeekendWatchRepair@gmail.com and I'll send you a link.
Great video! Thanks for all the detail, especially the part where the timegrapher traces were poor. I night have tossed it back in the drawer after that and wrote it off, lol. Nah, but it's really encouraging to see that and see the solution.
Glad it helped! Things don't always go smoothly, and tracking down issues is just part of the process. It isn't always the most exciting to watch, but it is necessary to get the watch running correctly. I'm glad you liked it!
Thank you for the detailed explanation of how you handle the quickset mechanism! I was having lots of trouble getting that piece back together again and this video was a lifesaver!
Glad it helped!
I noticed something as I was working on another part of my 6138, the replacement hammer spring (item 44 from the service manual) you were having difficulties with was looped around the wrong post before hooking the straight end into its place. It doesn’t loop around the post that the chronograph screws into, but the shorter post just next to it. It’s technically possible to get the spring around the chronograph bridge screw post, but it is very very difficult to do and I could understand how you’d think someone had sold you an aftermarket part.
@@jackstrutz You are correct. I made a follow up video correcting that mistake.
Great rebuild! I would really like to know who supplies the dials and hands?
Thank you. The world needs more of your level of humanity and care with these mechanical marvels. I chanced upon several 6138's and this will be a valued video to guide me through a forest. I wish I could help with the field of view focus issues, but I'm more hopeless at photography than the average guy.
Great design, beautiful watch.
Fantastic video! I have a Seiko 6138 Bullhead that needs restoration, but I can’t find anyone who will touch the darn thing 😢
Thanks for watching. I was hesitant at first as well, but once I got a few of them under my belt, they aren't too terribly complicated. Best of luck getting yours taken care of.
hello, i am learning this hobby with you, thank you for taking the time to explain all the steps , can you post where are all these illustrations that you post? again thank you
They are from the service manual from this movement.
Superb content my friend, I wondered if you’d be kind enough to tell me what microscope you’re using at all? I feel that might be a next step for my own watch journey? Huge huge thanks for the content, knowledge and inspiration
Thank you. The microscope is an AmScope - SM-4NTP 7X-45X
Thoroughly enjoyed watching the entire video.
I’m new to modding watches and trying to learn.
I got the bug about 3 months ago. I don’t have a watch now and haven’t worn one for over 20 years.
I want to build my own since so many parts are available and videos to aid skill development.
Funny how you bump into something that can totally consume you.
Thanks for sharing. Cheers
I know that all too well! Best of luck on your build.
I just discovered your channel and this is the first video I found. I like your style and in-depth explanation of what you're doing, every step of the way. You have a new subscriber, based on this one video alone. Thank you for sharing your work.
Thank you so much.
Great vid Adam! You mentioned saving time. You could take out cleaning and explain it’s in other videos. I’m hoping most people watching are watch fans who maintain watches, this way you can focus in on the fault finding and fixing. I really enjoy your hints and tips regarding fixes. How did you find out the issue with the dirty pallet fork jewels? How did you re clean, anything other than normal? Ta.
Thanks. Regarding the pallet fork jewels, I found it while doing close inspection of the part under a microscope. I buffed the tips of the jewels with a polyurethane tipped cleaning swap until all of the old dried up lubricant and dirt had been removed, then I soaked the part again in One-Dip.
@@WeekendWatchRepair thanks Adam! I’m working on a 1980s Seiko 5 7S26B at the moment. I’m finding the balance spring very annoying. Online guys say the A and B version are much better. Only my second Seiko, the first being a 1965 Sportsmatic 5 6619A who’s quickest date adjuster won’t work (push crown in). All fun and games! I just subscribed, good luck getting to 5k subs!
@@boydsargeant7496Thanks a bunch. Working through those types of things is how we all learn. There's no substitute for experience. I agree, it is fun! There is always more to learn and improve on.
Hi Adam,
this video is very informative and helpful for people like me who take on their own projects to learn watchmaking. It is very fascinating hobby I can tell you. All videos on RUclips by famous watch makers are just showing off their tools and cropping the actual content. As matter of fact you have gone every crucial step in this video for us to learn. I appreciate the efforts.
where did you get that new bezel .
I am trying to find that in the comments as mentioned by you in the video.
Thank you. I try my best to show each step. Regarding the bezel, I got it from the Seikosis.com website. He has the inserts in stock most of the time. The steel bezel itself is in stock on occasion. If it isn't on their website it might be worth contacting them to see if they have one that just hasn't been posted or if it is listed only on their eBay store.
Love that watch. Nice work on all the repairs. Really like your channel.
Much appreciated!
Great video. I'm in the process of restoring a 6138-0017 (yachtmaster) and realy can use some guidance. (The most complicated I did so far.) Can you tell me what mainspring you did use? Ebay does not have many mainsprings for this type any more. regards, and keep on making video's. 🙂
CousinsUK - part number GR25341X. They will show the GR2534X as the correct part, but the inner coil is a bit too large. The GR25341X will fit it correctly. Hope this helps.
Thank you. Your commentary is the icing on the cake. Helps people like me to learn and understand the intricacies of watch restoration. I'll never be in the position to purchase a Seiko 61' series, but have used much of your processes on my 6309, 6319 and 7009 series. So pleased to be a subscriber
Thank you Ross. I do appreciate the kind words. I’m glad you find the videos helpful.
Fantastic video! I'm an aspiring hobbyist that has bought a few watches where the eBay sellers were less than honest about their state (I've got 2x 6139s, black & brown bullheads, and the yachtsman). Great to see you tearing into it and hope I can be half that knowledgeable someday.
Thanks Austin. I'm a hobbyist as well. You'll be there soon, just keep working at it and make sure to read through the service manual. It helps, especially on your first few 6138/6139's, to have it on hand as a quick reference. Once you get a few of those Seiko chronograph movements under your belt you'll be very comfortable working on them.
@@WeekendWatchRepair Many thanks! I'll definitely be watching more and referencing. Seiko is my favorite brand so great to see them torn apart and methodically explained!
@@WhoTFstolemyname It's one of my favorites also. I have several more Seikos lined up for future projects. Thanks for watching.
I love the new dial. Very nice
I do as well. They did a great job on it.
Nice work! I discovered your channel while on my own watchmaking journey as a hobbyist myself. I have yet to dive into that many Seiko''s, I have mainly been playing around with Swiss watches from the 1930s-1950s. Found a killer deal on a few Tissot's from 1944 that have my attention. I have always loved these Bullheads, I may have to pick one up after watching your videos! Keep it up :) It's inspiring to see. Maybe post up a tool list in the description so I can easily purchase any missing tools that may come up.
First off, your have a great user name! I also started mainly on Swiss watches, but soon started working on a bunch of Japanese watches because they offered great value for the price. I could find project watches relatively inexpensively, and the more I worked on them the more I really liked them. I'm officially a vintage Seiko fan at this point. I still do work on a lot of Swiss movement though, and have a few still sitting in my project bin waiting for their turn on the bench. I'd really like to see those 1940's Tissot's you mentioned. I am a fan of the brand and a lot of their older stuff is really great. If it in any way helped push you towards getting your own Bullhead, than I'd say that the effort was worth it! You definitely won't regret getting one. They are fantastic watches. Lastly, that is a good idea on the tool list. I'll try to document the tools I have and make a list for future videos. I appreciate the suggestion. Thanks for watching!
@@WeekendWatchRepair Appreciate you taking the time to write that nice reply! The only downside to all the watches I generally like to work on is they are all radium lumed dials and hands, I try to be cautious and aware of the dangers. I should really get some kind of hepa filter type setup.
Hi Adam, great video, would like to see a bit more info on how you clean the Balance and the pivot fork , i think the video would be more complete. Keep them coming
Noted! Thank you.
As an watch collector and newbie watchmaker I can say, its a tons of tough and cool work you did. One of my Seiko's requires service, but I feel, I grew up for this non earlier than in 3 years...😅
Thanks a bunch. I'm glad you enjoyed the video!
I have never seen a Video like this Lubricating all Key points.& I know how important is proper lubs. That's why I don't buy any automatics I can't see what the Watch maker is doing & that's why automatics are dearer compared to Quartz. So many tiny parts still less accurate. Thank for the Video. Cheers from Down Under.
Thanks so much. I'm glad yo enjoyed the video.
Will be getting mine done soon I don’t know if I’ll change the dial and bezel it’s still up in the air. This watch is definitely a looker and one of Seikos icons of the late 60’s early 70’s.
Agreed!
Brother, that watch is Beautiful! I love your videos!
The resetting hammer spring need to hooked to column wheel click pin, not on the screw tube for the chronograph bridge 🙃
You are absolutely right! I can't believe I did that! I appreciate you spotting that. That's going to bug me constantly now, and now I'll have to go back in and fix it. It won't be too terribly difficult to do though.
I have one of these and it is an amazing watch. I love it.
Couldn't agree more!
I ment keep on with your videos because they are Great.
Thanks so much. I really do appreciate it.
First-time viewer. 👍 and subscribed.
Thanks so much.
Super job love that watch
Thanks a bunch. I love it as well, and have been wearing it regularly since completing it.
What a transformation. I just started"repairing"watches myself. I quotate that because I have yet to actually not mess one up in the process! Well i successfully did a pocket watch. All of the others have not been successful. To be fair I've only worked on cheapies that were less than ideal to start but after watching some of these seiko services I doubt I'll ever touch one of those chronos. Man that's a lot parts. I wonder do you have to go back to your videos frequently to know how to put it back together, or have you worked on enough to have figured it all out already? Gorgeous watch and love the work!
Thanks Bill. Before I began filming, I would take photos along the way with the microscope camera to document the disassembly process. On occasion I'd reference them during assembly. It's better to have them and not need them, than to need them and not have them! Regarding these 6138 and 6139 Seiko chronograph movements, I've done enough of them now where I don't need the photos any longer.
crazy cool watch!
I agree. I always loved the Bullhead!
Thanks for this video, I do have a bullhead that needs service, I'll follow your instructions. Which camera do you use? In general (for still shots) in order to increase the depth of field you need to reduce the aperture. See if you have the option of playing with the aperture. Thanks again.
Thank you. My regular camera has the ability to adjust the aperture. I've been playing around with a few different settings recently. The camera on my microscope unfortunately does not.
Fascinating Visio, thanks.
Thank you.
My god that was great video I am just fascinated how many parts this watch has and how they communicate with one another. Yeah that dial was rough I am glad you were able to source another. The end result was beautiful !!!! I am watching $45 stunner now and you commented you watch Marshall on WW Revival . He does a lot of Rolex which unfortunately is out of my price range. I owned a quartz Seiko from the 80s I loved that watch and wore it to death. I have never owned an automatic movement. So I am going to ask if you could do a quartz movement and explain how they work.
Thanks for such a detailed comment. I appreciate the suggestion on doing a quartz movement.
Great video, thank you for sharing
Thanks Rupert.
Beautiful watch
Watch making is dangerous. If you're not careful you could lose a hand. 🥁 🤣 I slay me .
lol
Hey! Great video. I just bought a Bullhead for myself and will be going through it with your help. Can you please let me know who you got your parts through for this watch? Especially the bezel insert and dial/hands but also any internals. Thank you so much!
Thank you very much. If you want to email me at WeekendWatchRepair@gmail.com I can give you links to where I bought those items from. I didn't know if I should post them openly in the comments. Thanks.
Fantastic video. Subscribed!
Thanks so much.
Excelente vídeo y explicación saludos de Venezuela
Thank you.
Pleace keeper with your videos. They are Great.
Glad you like them!
Subscribed! Great video and terrific commentary throughout. At 42:39 regarding the microscope camera and focusing issues -- I am pretty much going through the same thing! Just curious what microscope, camera, and camera adapter you are using. Also, is the microscope tilted in relation to the tabletop? Mine is, because it's basically the only way to use it comfortably, but it also tilts the focal plane so you end up with issues just like this. Also, just out of curiosity, what is the watch channel you mentioned who always has microscope shots in focus? Chronoglide maybe? Oh and also who is the supplier for the new dial and hands? They look amazing. Kudos for the wonderful video, and can't wait for more content! 🍻
Thanks a bunch. Yes, the channel is Chronoglide. His microscope shots look great.
To answer your questions:
Microscope - Am Scope - SM-4NTP 7X-45X
Camera - HAYEAR Full HD 34MP 2K 1080P
Camera Adapter - 0.35X CTV Microscope Adapter
Barlow - 0.5X
C-CS Adapter - 0.5MM (new addition that helps greatly)
The microscope is tilted at a slight angle. I think I've figured out the settings a bit more, and with the new C-CS 5mm adapter I have a bit more range of focus so I'm hopeful it'll be better in future videos
Dial and hands came from: Seikosis
Thanks for subscribing and the kind words. I'm glad you enjoyed the video.
Nice work. Can you make a video (shorts maybe) how you dress screwdrivers and tweezers. Thanks
Sure. That's a great idea. I'll add that to the list. I appreciate the suggestion.
I just bought one of these, and have it under the microscope now...
same deal, swapped out 6139b parts, same missing hammer spring (thanks for that!) repair failures, undeclared issues. Even the crown/stem was from a different watch and hidden in the pics Going to be a lot of work.
Yeah, it's not really surprising I suppose. These watches have really increased in popularity it seems over the past few years. With that comes all of the hatchet jobs, unfinished projects, undeclared issues and misrepresented watches. It's not all bad though. The sense of accomplishment you get when you get the rebuild completed and you have the watch on your wrist is fantastic. Best of luck with your rebuild!
@@WeekendWatchRepair Thanks, it's going great! (so far)... have rewatched this video about 20 times over the last day :)
@@njones420Haha. Good to hear. You can also check out the 2 videos I uploaded for the John Player Special. That is also a 6138 movement, but it shows a different order in which that movement can be assembled. You may find it helpful to see a another way of doing it.
@@WeekendWatchRepair Well, I had to rebuild it 5 times due to stupid mistakes ... but now running at +4 seconds, 205* amplitude
Thank you very much !! (I couldn't do this for a living, I'd only get 1 watch done a month 🤣)
I know that feeling. It's also the reason I tend to avoid doing commission work, and really only do my own watches, along with some friends and family. The time and labor that I put into each watch is far above what one would be willing to pay to have someone else do it. I haven't really found a way to do it 'efficiently' where the cost I'd charge would be commensurate with the amount of work I put into each piece. Also, I'm not in any sort of rush (time wise) when working on my own watches or friend's watches. They know that this is a hobby of mine and are willing to wait to get the work done. I'd feel bad if I had a 'customer' watch for several weeks before I was able to even start on it.
Subbed! loved this video
Hey, thanks so much! I really appreciate it.
Great video, which ETA mainspring did you use?
Thanks for watching! The spring is for an ETA 2892 (and others). CousinsUK part # GR25341X. They are the same exact dimensions as the aftermarket spring that is normally called for on this movement (GR2534X), but with a smaller inner curve that fits the barrel arbor much nicer.
This seems like a highly complicated (pun intended) reassembly.
haha
First time viewer, i did like and subscribe. Also, I enjoyed the whole video. Super fun and its tempting me to get into the repairing hobbie too.
I have the same watch (Black and Blue color). But in my watch, when the Chronograph stops, the watch stops too. What do you think it could be ?
Thank you🙏
It could be a number of things. Very difficult to say without looking at the watch.
Great video. I have my eye on the same watch but the chrono hand doesn’t spring back to the true zero. All over the place. 5 second either direction. Not sure if I can find a competent watch repair who would tackle this issue, but my question is how much should I budget? Is this something that requires a complete rebuild like you show here? Love to get a vintage Seiko to have on the wrist a couple times a month, like appreciating a classic auto. Love your content, cheers
Thank you. As far as pricing for a service, I really don't know what people are charging. I would guess it is at least a few hundred dollars plus parts, but since I've always done them myself, I really don't know what a fair price would be from a watchmaker.
I apologize for the issues with the audio. I’m not sure what happened. On the file I created on my computer, the audio sounds fine and doesn’t chop off parts of my voice. For whatever reason when I uploaded it to RUclips, it might have been re-processed or something, and there is some issues with my voice. I’m also noticing in a couple of spots where the video is grainy for brief moment. I don’t know why that would be. When I play the file on my computer that I uploaded to RUclips, everything seems to be fine. My apologies to everyone if you are experiencing audio issues. I’m only now hearing them for the first time after it’s been uploaded.
We can be our worst critics sometimes. I didn't even notice :)
@@MidnightWatches Thanks a bunch. I'm wondering if it perhaps is just on my end. I re-watched a few parts of the video from my phone and didn't hear the same audio issues I was getting through my Roku. Who knows, lol!!!
Because of the vertical clutch construction these Seiko and Citizen chronographs should be worn always with running stopwatch to avoid wear and damage at the clutch !
Saludos! te pasaste de loco, el trinquete del sistema de resteo, lo montaste mal pero muy mal....
I made another video showing that error and correcting it. Thank you.
Hi Adam thank you for the informative video nicely done sir. I was wondering if you have the dimensions of the jewels for the conversion and any of the tools required to carry the work out listed anywhere as I’d like to have a go at converting mine next time I’m in there. Thanks again from the UK
Thank you for the kind words. I'm glad you enjoyed the video. Unfortunately I do not know the dimensions of the jewels. The upper barrel bridge jewel in the 6138 is a common upgrade, and you can purchase jewel kits from a few sellers on eBay. Vintage Time Australia sells the bridge jewels, or combos of the both the bridge and main plate jewels for these movements (along with others). I purchase my Seiko jewel upgrade kits from them, or another eBay seller I found in the US. Both have worked very well. I am using a Horia type jeweling tool to do the jeweling work. A real Horia tool and it's pushers can be extremely expensive. I bought a 'clone' Horia tool from Ali Express some time ago and have used it extensively without any issue.
@@WeekendWatchRepair Thanks for your prompt reply Adam I shall do a bit of research. Maybe if you have one in your collection you could service a Seiko Bellmatic on the channel ? Any sorry to take up your valuable time. I’ve subscribed and look forward to your next project. I have a large pile of Seiko spares if you ever need anything. 👍
Thanks so much, I appreciate it. I actually have two Bellmatics set aside for future projects. I actually haven’t done one of those before, so I am looking forward to it. They are my personal watches though, and I have some I’m working on at the moment, including one for the channel, that belong to some friends of mine. I’m trying to prioritize those types first, as my own personal watches can wait until it is convenient.
I think one of those two Bellmatics will make for a really good video because it is singularly the most disgustingly dirty watch I have ever opened up! I bought it because it had a very rare dial, and looked halfway decent on the outside. When I opened it up it was another story though. I just closed it back up and put it in the project drawer! I think it would be quite the transformation if I was able to get it going again though. I’m hoping people will like the next video. Without giving it away, it should be quite the transformation between the before and after shots.
@@Binky750B I was just replying to another comment and reread this one. You’ll be happy to know that the next video will be a detailed rebuild of a Bellmatic. I should have it posted next week. Hope you enjoy it.
I would like to know what microscope you are using. I am thinking about delving into this unique hobby and it seems like a microscope would be manditory for my old eyes.
It's absolutely necessary for me as well.
AmScope - SM-4NTP 7X-45X Simul-Focal Stereo Lockable Zoom Microscope on Dual Arm Boom Stand
Thank you ‼️
You bet.
Hi, can you repost where you bought your dial and hands from please. Great video. I recently did my first Pogue and mistakingly lubed the intermediate minute recording wheel. Doh! Cheers. Chris
Sure. The dial and hands came from Seikosis.com
@@WeekendWatchRepair many thanks. Thought they might have. 👍
@@drchrisblake My pleasure.
Adam;
When you buy your seiko watches from epay do you buy from places like India or Pakistan?
Is this similar to the movement used in the 'Pogue' models?
Yes, very similar. This one has an hour recording mechanism while the Pogue does not. The movements share most of the same parts though.
Oh I think we all know who it is who talks highly of their cannon pinion tool…… In steps Marshall 🕺
thank you for the vid!
one question when i try to assemble the keyless, after installing quick daydate set and the L shaped level that holds in place, when ever changing the stem mode, from time setting phase to daydate setting phase and winding phase, the quick set tries to jump out
I tried everything, the yoke spring and the setting lever plate seem to be in place, but still happens
it is working with the L shaped cover plate rotated to the point when it covers the quick setting lever more
Hola from spain. Who redid the dial??
Thank you for your detailed videos, they are great and I'll be using them as future reference for servicing my watches. BTW Spencer Klein (www.youtube.com/@SpencerKleinVintageWatch) always recommends to reset the 6138/6139 with the seconds hand as close to the 12 hours as possible, to prevent damaging the hand.
Thanks Agustin. While that is true, I personally feel that if a watch is a chronograph, it should be able to reset in any position. If it would damage the hand resetting it at the 6 o'clock position, than there are problems that need to be addressed. He is technically correct though, and there is less stress on the hand by resetting it close to 12.
this video is year old but I would think a bore scope camera would work for that pretty well
That would be interesting.
About the unbalance of the picture of the Microscope Camera compared to what You see with Your eyes I'd say the Aperture of the Camera is set too large for the ambient light. According to the Laws of Optics the smaller the Aperture the dimmer the picture is and the longer the usable depth of Focus, so to get same image from the Camera to what You see the Aperture of the Camera should be set smaller. This then would also greatly improve the focusing issues.
Check the instructions of the Camera if there is a manual setting, but unfortunately most less expensive Cameras are designed to be "easy" to use, thus most of the manual settings have been left out. 😐
There still may be Shutter time setting, so setting a faster Shutter time improves some, but is not as effective as direct Aperture size setting. Probably You end up in getting a new Camera...
You are correct about the 'easy' to use part. Mine does not have a manual aperture setting. That should the ticket though. I appreciate the feedback.
Who make the tweezer you use?
I recently starting getting my brass tweezers from Viola Tweezers. They are good quality at a very fair price. My other non-brass tweezers are mostly Dumont.
First time seeing this channel. Why does this guy sound just like Marshall?
Haha, I’ve heard that several times now. I don’t know what to say, that’s just what my voice sounds like! It’s a simple USB microphone plugged into my computer. I’m not running any specialized equipment.
hi...what do i do wronge. i put back together my bullhead and the day and date change once on meadknigt next morning 1 o clock next morning 2 oclock and so..thanks
I wish I could help, but that is just something that would have to be looked at. Those are geared to engage at 24 hour intervals. There really isn't anything I can think of that might cause the issue you are describing. Just make sure that you've followed the manual for reassembly, and ensure that you've got your hands oriented and installed correctly. There are 6138 service manuals available for download from several websites. I'd recommend getting a copy of that document and see if you can locate the issue in your watch. Thanks for watching and leaving a comment. I hope you're able to figure out what's causing your issue.
@@WeekendWatchRepair thanks
How much did it cost from eBay and how much was the new dial/bezel/hands?
I paid $435 for the watch (unfortunately). The dial, hands, and bezel insert cost me around $75 total.
@@WeekendWatchRepair Hi Sir , why you have to buy the dial , hand and bezel ? The watch was not come with ?
@@benmak3283 The ones that came on the watch were in very poor condition. Since the watch was not original when I received it, I did not have any issues, replacing them with quality aftermarket parts.
@@WeekendWatchRepair I see !
Luckily you got the one , usually spare parts are hard to find !
By the way , I have a question about the numbers on the dial and the back of the case , you said 6 is represent the year 1976 , why it is not 1966 or 1986 ?
Thank you to answer my question !
@@benmak3283 You have to know the decade when the watch was made. If you don't know what decade it came from, it could be 1966 or 1986, as you stated. For this particular model of watch, They only made them from 1975 to 1978. Since it is established that this watch was only made in the 70's, that's how one can determine the exact year from those numbers. As long as you can find out what decade it was made in, the serial number and the dial number will tell you exactly when they were built.
Where are you located?
Oklahoma
@@WeekendWatchRepair do you work on watches for subscribers?
I’ve been asked a couple of times. I hadn’t thought about it when I first started the channel, but I suppose it was inevitable. Currently, I do not have a PO box, but I would need to get one set up before I’m able to accept service requests. If you want to send me an email at WeekendWatchRepair@gmail.com and let me know what kind of watch you have, I might be able to provide you with some contact info for a few other watchmakers who could help you out. If you have a Seiko like I have shown in any of my videos, I can give you a few contacts who are very capable of working on those.
I’m just unfortunately not set up at this time to take in viewer watches. Perhaps soon though. Thanks!
@@WeekendWatchRepair okay, thanks. I will be emailing you soon.
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Don’t remove the parts at 17:02 into the video, like 👍 you’re saying. If ya do remove it, it will suddenly power down the mainspring, possibly ruining the movement of the watch. I’ve done ✅ it, which usually scares the heck out of ya. I don’t know if it did any damage or not, but ruined 😠 gears ⚙️, such as in an expensive watch, can be very difficult 😞, and expensive to replace. Your friend, Jeff.
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Nice video, thnx 4 sharing and thumbs up ........., but way to much talk.
Haha. Thanks a bunch. I don't really know any other way of doing it, but I'll keep that in mind. I appreciate you watching and commenting.
65 6=1976 why ?
It could be 1966 or 1986 !
They only made this watch during the 70’s.
I would have sent it back to the seller and tell him to stuff it where the sun don’t shine 😢 That’s is why i use paypal and a refund in your account 10 days!
give me a watch pls