I have a Hamilton 12s model 914 that has a broken regulator screw. Is it possible to remove and replace the screw and if so where can i get a replacement? Thanks..Paul

Paul, my Amishman traps the broken remnant between two very slender stakes on his K&D and rotates it out.

I don't know if a 12s regulator screw is the same size as a 16 or an 18.

Eric: Thanks for the info. I think i am going to have look for an assembly. The screw is broken so close there is nothing to grab. Paul

Paul please post a picture of the spring with the screw in it. I have screws and have replaced these if there is enough of a "stump" sticking out

David: Here is a picture of the broken screw. Hope this shows what you need. Paul

Paul, I have fixed that situation before and have some extra screws. It requires disassembling the spring from the balance cock, and using a micro-chuck to unscrew the stump past the spring, then installing a new screw (I have some) and re-assembling the spring to the balance cock. If you want to send it to me, I can do it and return it to you.

David: Thanks, I sent you an email...Paul

Ater receiving and fixing this, Paul asked; "Thanks again for the getting that screw fixed for me. I would have loved to see just how you did that. Paul" So here is a picture of "how I did it". Note: It takes a "real little" Watchmakers Balance screw holder.

WARNING THESE SIMULATIONS ARE EFFECTED BY A SELF-CLAIMED PROFESSIONAL DRIVER, ANY ATTEMPT TO DUPLICATE THESE TRICKS ARE AT YOUR OWN RISK".

It was probably done on a closed course too, right?

Distinguished members,

I have exactly the same problem as Paul Arsenault did (Posted June 10, 2011), i.e. a broken Regulator Screw with head part sheared off (Hamilton 16s Regulator Screw 518/482040)

Would a kind member having an extra scew be able to sell me one? Or maybe point to where I might find one? I refer to David Abbe's reply on June 11, 2011 who said he had some extra screws. Do you still have any extras, David?

I would appreciate it immensely. Payment by PayPal, and post to Athens, Greece.

Many thanks,
Paul

It will be the smartest $12.00 you have ever spent.

Thank you Debbie and Eugene for your messages. I'm working on that $12 registration...

Meanwhile, from your experience, can you tell me what would be the problem if I simply remove the regulator spring with the broken screw (and carefully saving it along with its screws), and leave the regulator free, as in other the non-Railroad watches, and enable regulating by carefully shifting the regulator needle? I am using this as a carry-on watch for everyday use.

Thanks for your help,
Paul

Paul, regarding your question.

YES, removing the regulator spring and saving it until a screw becomes available is no problem as far as operating the watch or the regulator. (I have none of the screws left in my stash).

BUT the "adjustment" afforded by the regulator arm on your Hamilton is only a few seconds a day on a good running watch. If your watch is running a few minutes "off" each day, it MUST be cleaned and serviced to keep time accurately again.

A whole bundle of thanks, David, for the informative reply.

Paul