The timing machine is probably one of the most valuable tools that a watchmaker uses daily. The typical timing machine, and probably the most popular, is the Vibrograf B-200A. This machine can be used for any mechanical watch. However, there are times when the watchmaker must make actual visual observations of what the watch is actually doing.
For example we just completed a full service on a Elgin M. D. Ogden 18 size key wind pocket watch. We noticed that the timing screws on the balance had been altered and weight had been removed from several of the screws. This was probably done years ago to compensate for a weak mainspring, or it could have been done as a means to service the watch and time it without proper cleaning.
When the watch was placed on the timing machine, the readout was showing good balance operation, but the lines were running off the chart and to the left. We then selected a rate of 19,800 BPH. This brought the lines a little more to the center, but the rate was still very fast.
Two sets of timing washers were selected and installed. This slowed the rate, then when we selected a rate of 18,000 BPH, the lines were still going off the chart, but poise of the balance still looked good. This is where visual observations of the watch need to be observed.
The correct time was set on the watch and allowed to run in the pendant up position for 12 hours. In this amount of time the watch gained 11 minutes. This would have resulted in 22 minutes in a 24 hour period. Correcting this with timing washers is not practical. A set of timing screws were installed. This brought the watch very close to the correct rate.
After some further adjustment using the timing machine and leaving the regulator of the watch centered, an acceptable rate was achieved.
The timing machine is a great tool, and works very well for making adjustments to within a few seconds per day, but there are times when visual observations are needed. One must remember back when timing machines were not available. Watchmakers back then relied totally on visual observations to time a watch and regulate it.
Using a combination of both electronic testing and visual observations of the watch great results can be accomplished in timing watches.
For example we just completed a full service on a Elgin M. D. Ogden 18 size key wind pocket watch. We noticed that the timing screws on the balance had been altered and weight had been removed from several of the screws. This was probably done years ago to compensate for a weak mainspring, or it could have been done as a means to service the watch and time it without proper cleaning.
When the watch was placed on the timing machine, the readout was showing good balance operation, but the lines were running off the chart and to the left. We then selected a rate of 19,800 BPH. This brought the lines a little more to the center, but the rate was still very fast.
Two sets of timing washers were selected and installed. This slowed the rate, then when we selected a rate of 18,000 BPH, the lines were still going off the chart, but poise of the balance still looked good. This is where visual observations of the watch need to be observed.
The correct time was set on the watch and allowed to run in the pendant up position for 12 hours. In this amount of time the watch gained 11 minutes. This would have resulted in 22 minutes in a 24 hour period. Correcting this with timing washers is not practical. A set of timing screws were installed. This brought the watch very close to the correct rate.
After some further adjustment using the timing machine and leaving the regulator of the watch centered, an acceptable rate was achieved.
The timing machine is a great tool, and works very well for making adjustments to within a few seconds per day, but there are times when visual observations are needed. One must remember back when timing machines were not available. Watchmakers back then relied totally on visual observations to time a watch and regulate it.
Using a combination of both electronic testing and visual observations of the watch great results can be accomplished in timing watches.
