Setting The Balance Impulse Jewel In The Pallet Fork

[bbm744]

I'm new in watch repair and service (only on a hobby basis) and at present am working only on Hamilton manual winds 980, 982 747, 748, and 987's. My problem is there a technique to getting the balance impulse jewel to locate properly in the pallet fork. I realize that this is a novice type problem, but I fit the case. Any help on technique that might make it easier I would appreciate. Thanks

[Gotwatch]

Welcome bbm744.

 

This video of Mark's, our fearless OZ, should set you on the right road:

 

http://www.watchrepairtalk.com/topic/1978-new-video-setting-a-watch-in-beat/

[JimInOz]

I'm new in watch repair and service (only on a hobby basis) and at present am working only on Hamilton manual winds 980, 982 747, 748, and 987's. My problem is there a technique to getting the balance impulse jewel to locate properly in the pallet fork. I realize that this is a novice type problem, but I fit the case. Any help on technique that might make it easier I would appreciate. Thanks

 

Are you talking about setting the watch in beat,as per the video, or getting the the impulse jewel in the mid position between the banking pins?

 

Or do you mean when bringing the balance into the movement and getting the impulse jewel into the fork at the correct position?

[Geo]

I'm going to assume that you are talking about fitting the balance back into the watch correctly so that the impulse jewel enters the fork correctly when the balance turns. Here's what I said in an earlier post on the subject:-

"This is the bit that gave me the most heartache when I started.

Wind the watch 1-2 turns and check that the escapement levers flicks sharply from side to side by gently pushing it with a dry oiler or tooth pick.

If all is well, fit the balance wheel. Make sure that you position the balance jewel correctly regarding the end of the lever. Looking down on the lever, if it lying to the right, ensure that the balance jewel is even further to the right when you drop the balance into position. Vice versa if the lever is lying to the left. As you turn the balance cock into the correct position the balance jewel will automatically engage the lever and watch should start running.

As a wee aside, when oiling a watch, do not oil the pivot jewels on the escapement lever."

Oops I almost forgot, welcome to the forum! :)

[bbm744]

Geo, I did mean that my problem was as you described, getting the impulse jewel to enter the fork correctly. This method as detailed in your reply should help.

Jiminoz, thanks for your reply and if you have a particular technique the works for you in getting the impulse jewel into proper position in the fork I also welcome it.

 

Thanks to both of you.

[bbm744]

Gotwatch, I forgot to thank you for the link to Mark's video although I'm not at this level of repair and fine tuning yet it was interesting to watch. Mark has certainly done a great service to all interested in watches and watch service and repair. I have watched many of his video's and my thanks to him.

Thank you 

[JimInOz]

My technique is much the same as explained by Geo.

 

I usually set the fork to the left side (looking from above) and after checking where the impulse jewel is while holding it above the movement I use a curved trajectory to come in from the right side of the movement.

 

You could also mark the balance with a tiny dot of ink (fine Sharpie) at the jewel point which may assist you in guiding the jewel in correctly.

 

It's a bit hard to explain, but if you get an old movement and practice I'm sure you'll get the knack.

 

And seeing the balance starting to spin before you even get the bridge into final position gives a great sense of achievement.

[bbm744]

JiminOz

Thank you for your advice, it will be helpful. I am getting better at it and with time and practice it will become second nature.

 

bbm744

[dab]

Great advice, thanks to all. David