Rolex cannon pinion and broken center wheel

[LittleWatchShop]

This came from my Dad's stock of parts.  He likely replaced the center wheel and kept the broken one.

My question is this.  Do you think the dent on the cannon pinion was done at the factory, or is this likely the cannon pinion that was removed when the center wheel was replaced?

Alternative theory is that the dent was made by a watchmaker to increase the friction of the cannon pinion on the center wheel post.

[LittleWatchShop]

Added this image to be clear about the dent.

[fixermole]

That dent comes from the factory.

[Nucejoe]

Any reason why the factory should make a dent on this supposedly high precision canon pinion?

A true watchmaker keeps such broken peaces for the gear is still good and can save a watch, so is the canon pinion.

 

 

 

 

 

 

[oldhippy]

Looks like an old cannon pinion as you can see marks of wear on the leaves. I think the dent was made by who ever has repaired it in the past. 

[nickelsilver]

That looks factory to me.

[jdm]

The common way to adjust a cannon pinion. The related trick is, if it has been closed an hair too tight, it can be so slightly reopened pressing on the same point, but when fitted to the wheel. 

[LittleWatchShop]

2 hours ago, jdm said:

The common way to adjust a cannon pinion. The related trick is, if it has been closed an hair too tight, it can be so slightly reopened pressing on the same point, but when fitted to the wheel. 

Thanks jdm.  I have done this myself several times.  What I was wondering...for brand new movements, are cannon pinions adjusted at the factory?

[oldhippy]

All parts are machined in bulk to the specifications.