August 06, 2023, 08:16
Larry HelmsElgin convertible grade 100
I have an Elgin convertible grade 100 that ran fine in all positions. I had no idea when the last service was so (unfortunately) I decided to clean it. After assembly it does not start on its own and needs a lot of lightly spinning the balance wheel. After several times of this it does start and moves about 90 degrees. After about 10 minutes it swings about 180-200 degrees. It will spin fine over night like this face down. When you change positions it will slowly come to a holt and not run in any position. You have to go through the light spinning of the balance to get it to start again. I did nor replace any parts in the movement. I have cleaned it again thinking something was dirty. Everything looks clean. Any suggestions will be appreciated.
thank you,
Larry
August 07, 2023, 21:18
Chris AbellHi Larry,
first and easiest thing I would try is to demagnetize it. After that I sorry to say it could be one of so many things it not going to be possible to point you further, would need to have it in hand to find direction.
August 09, 2023, 06:09
Larry HelmsUpdate:
The movement does the same thing when you try to get the balance to run face up. Needs some coaxing but will run face up overnight. When you move it face down it again stops and needs coaxing to start.
Larry
August 09, 2023, 17:11
Serge BarlasHi Larry,
Some other things to look at...
1. Check the hair spring. Make sure the coils are concentric to each other. Make sure none of the coils are touching each other. Sometines a very small amount of oil will get the coils to touch or attract and the watch will not run properly. Also check the the hairspring is not rubbing the underside of the balance cock.
2. Check that the balance cap jewels are in their correct "home" positions. If they are out of position it will allow the balance to drop down to far and could slow or stop the watch.
3. Remove the balance and pallet fork from the watch and ensure the train of wheels runs smoothly and with no resistance. I had a watch once that had a screw thread touching the center wheel, took forever to figure out what the issue was.
Hope this helps you a bit, that's a great watch movement!
August 10, 2023, 06:32
Larry HelmsThank you Serge. Will try your suggestions.
Larry