I'm having a watch from the same production run as the watch believed to have been presented to Lincoln restored. The balance staff is rusty. Should it be replaced or left original? The hands and crystal were also missing.

Thanks,
Dana

Dana, If you are having this restored, he most important thing would be the condition of the balance (hair)spring. If the staff is rusty" (not just dirty) the restorer knows what to do with the balance wheel and staff assembly.

Do you have the serial number of the watch?

Hi David-

It's a Model 57, Wm. Ellery, hunter case, # 67866.

It's being worked on by Chris Carey at Watertown Watch and Clock and we've been discussing whether it should be kept as original as possible or try to have it run a little better.