Does anyone know a source for parts for a 1917 Howard pocket watch,gf,swingout case, size 12. It needs hands, stem and crystal...and maybe more. I'll post a picture as soon as I get it back from a watch repairman who is trying to find the parts also. It has sentimental value. Most folks would probably junk it. If you think you know someone who could restore it, please let me know.

The Howard 12sz parts you mentioned are readily available in the market place. Since the watch has sentimental value, I would scour the bay for a good donor or two and buy them up and then present the watch and parts to a good repairman for restoration.

regards,
bb

Donald I agree with Buster if this watch has sentimental value send it to a in house repair person and have it all done right. I did that for my grandfathers watch as i wanted it done right even if I knew I could do it.

Thanks for the good advice. Now who is a good "in house" restoration guy..or gal?

The watch repair guy I have trying to fix it seemed knowledgable. However, if the parts are readily available, I am beginning to wonder why he can't find them.

Well I know there are many repair men in 185 but I know personally Chris Abell would do you a good job and I am sre he can find the parts.

Thanks again! If my guy doesn't find something soon, Chris will be next on my list. Are there any instructions on this site about how to pack and ship an antique watch?

Donald ; the parts are not available in the regular Watch findings suppliers stock , though they are around in the hands of watchmakers and collectors who've been buying them up the last 40 years while everyone in the business was changing with the times and going electric, electronic ,and quartz and selling off their parts As to shipping an antique watch it should be a box big enough it won't get crushed,and I use 16x16x11cm boxes with the watch in the center in bubble wrap ,which protects the crystal and the balance staff from almost any possible harm

Tom:
Thanks for the tips and advice. The folks on this site have been very helpful.
Don