I just bought this beautiful Illinois Ball size 12 19 Jewel pocket watch. I was told byu the seller that the regulator spring is "half broke" but that does not effect the runnning of the watch. When I pulled out the stem to set it and wind it nothing happened except the stem did move out. the hands won't move and the watch won't wind or tick. Otherwise the watch appears to be in almost mint condition. Should I send it back is worth keeping and fixing?

Is it stem set or lever set?

It is stem set

I can think of about five reasons why it wouldn't set with the crown pulled out that are all easy fixes. If something is broken or missing and it's a hard to find part it gets tricky.

Frank "407" Kusumoto

Steven, Is it the original case? If not, the sleeve might not be set to the proper depth. Secondly, a common problem on stem setting watches that have sat for a long time is that the rod that moves inside the winding arbor becomes frozen. It does not move when the stem is pulled out and does not engage the clutch. A cleaning and oiling takes care of this. There could be a setting (shipper) spring misalligned or broken not allowing the setting clutch to engage.

I think these are some of what Frank was thinking on his prior post.

Tom

Speaking of regulator whip springs, what is/was the rationale for leaving or taking them off an otherwise good watch: lost the screw(s), broke the spring, unaware that they could be important, or just plain laziness?

Thanks for the information. I will take it to get cleaned and checked. I believe it is the original case. I could attach a picture if that would help.

Lindel and others I just looked at the picture you sent. Mine is exactly like that one. It is in great condition.
these are the best I have

Here is the movement

This sis the movement

By the way I paid $169.00 for the watch. sorry I forgot to put this in

Thanks Lindell, I knew I might have to have some work done but expected it work as advertised. I would be happy to have Frank work on that watch if he is willing.

Thanks Again everybody

Thanks Lindell, I do appreciate it. It's one of my nicest watches.