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Most amateur watchmakers use existing tables or work tops for doing their repairs. The big problem is the height is usually far to low to be comfortable when working for long periods. The cost of a proper watchmakers workbench is in most cases prohibitive, bearing in mind I am talking about hobbiests and not professionals. My solution to the problem was to make a small table to sit on top of my computer desk that gives extra working height. It also slips underneath the computer monitor and allows normal desk height when I require to use my wee lathe. The Bergeon sheet has been trimmed down to A4. I decided on A4 as it allows me to use a clean sheet of A4 paper every time I assemble a movement. All edges are raised to prevent components rolling off, the front edge being slightly lower than the others. The overall height is 150mm, but this could be made to suit the individual. Ideally I would have made it slightly taller, but it would not slide underneath my computer monitor. Here's a couple of photos.

From the photo, it looks like the plate was specifically designed to keep that spring in place no matter what. Perhaps rodico held over the top of the pinion next time? ;) I'm packing away these tips...

Its back in the case and running fine. I'm very pleased with my first strip down. I've lost a screw and crown ring washer but all in all a good result. Has anyone else stabbed themselves with an oiler? They might be thin but they're **BLEEP** sharp, my thumb is throbbing. Phil

Photo of the movement

Success, well, that's the movement side done with a ticking balance wheel. I have mislaid the crown wheel washer which makes winding a bit more like grinding. And many thanks to Geo who kindly supplied a spare jewel holder screw.

I'm with you on that. Things just have to be correct, it's the fine detail that makes all the difference, that's why my kitchen took me so long!

As I suspected Will. I also have been unfairly treated, I was told I was starting to drink too much and getting lazy ! where both of these facts have always been constant and unchanged over the years - you would think my beloved would have known that ! :D

That's the kitchen finally finished. Now to get on with some of my horological projects starting with my Seiko chronograph.

Well, here it is! I must say, I really do like it ! But, I'm not happy with the quality of printing that I'm getting form my dial refinisher. There are just too many flaws in the finish. As some may know, I'm heading down the path of printing my own dials. This way I have total control of the finished product, and no one to blame but myself if it does not turn out the way I want!

Proper bugger that the stud snapped of Keith, you did a great job re-shaping the spring.

I know it's disappointing that the stud snapped off but i'v have to say I am impressed with the job you did in straightening out the spring.

I'm finishing up the first version of the software now, and will be sending it and a prototype mic/amp to a watchmaker friend. I still haven't decided on a distribution scheme. Most likely free and pro versions of the software, and the pro version can also be purchased bundled with a mic and amp. For those who urgently want to build their own now, the mic element is a 27mm piezo disk, readily available on eBay. Power is provided by a 9V battery, which is good for about 50+ hours of continuous use. Here's the current version of the circuit I'm using, along with a stripboard layout. Please don't redistribute it on other forums and such for now. This amplifier will work with Biburo too, but I've found Biburo to be pretty bug-ridden and unreliable, which is one reason I decided to write my own software.