Internet Horology Club 185
Polishing plate screws?

This topic can be found at:
https://ihc185.infopop.cc/eve/forums/a/tpc/f/3426047761/m/4893901787

February 21, 2016, 15:35
Dennis Bailey
Polishing plate screws?
I learned long ago that one has little recourse other than to accept rust spotting on wheels and regulators/whips but what about on screws? In this case, the small amount on most of the plate screws might be keeping the watch from being classified as mint and I want it off or I need new screws. I use a flexible shaft in my work and I could polish it off using the appropriate grit. These screws are the flat top variety and not shiny. Maybe I should find a loose rusted screw and try it. But I wonder what you guys think or found out on your own..remember, it's a very small amount on each one..
February 22, 2016, 08:22
Rafal Woler
there are sets for polishing screws which do great job, it needs some practice with that. There is a video how to use it:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nYamLPIrvr8

and from one of our members:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WyBVUAiFJ9o

Problem here is to keep sharp edges of the screws, flex shaft and simple polishing machines have tendency to round them, above tool keep it at 90 degrees. Also grading grits is important - from coarse to fine. De-rusting helps a lot, but then you have to make it flat again or it will not be looking good.

If you dont want to use those tools, there is another method:

http://watchmaking.weebly.com/screwhead-polisher.html

and there is another interesting article:

http://www.watchesbysjx.com/20...black-polishing.html
February 22, 2016, 09:37
Lorne Wasylishen
Great info Rafal, thank you.
February 22, 2016, 10:16
Dennis Bailey
Yes Rafal...thanks very much!!