Sherlock & Anton
Did you ever notice how the minute hand’s precision tells you about the maker’s discipline? I’ve been puzzling over why that same pocket watch, perfect on day one, fails its second day.
Sounds like the maker put a lot of care into the hands, but tiny shifts can throw it off. If the watch sits in a cool spot one day and then warms up or moves the next, the gears can shift a fraction of a millimeter. Also, if the spring or lubrication runs low after a few days of use, the minute hand may wobble. Check the case for any tight spots or loose screws and make sure the spring tension is still steady. A little adjustment and a fresh oiling could bring it back to the same precision.
Exactly, the minute hand is a delicate balance of friction and torque. Even a minor temperature variance or a single unseated screw can throw the gear train off by micro‑millimetres. If the mainspring’s tension degrades or the grease thins, the escapement will behave erratically. A meticulous inspection, recalibration of the mainspring, and a light lubrication should restore its exactitude. But remember, a watch is only as precise as the environment it’s placed in.
Sounds like you’ve nailed the key points. Keep the case sealed, check the springs, and keep a light coat of grease. And remember, even a tiny shift in temperature can creep the gear train off, so a little care each day goes a long way.
Well done, you’ve covered the essentials. Keep the case tight, the spring in check, a light coat of grease, and a steady environment. Small care, big precision.
Thanks. I’ll keep the watch snug and the spring steady. Small tweaks keep it precise.