Pallet fork not syncing with escape wheel

[Reaz]

Hello everyone, I am new to watch making and I brought a few junk watches to try to learn, repair and get them running again. I posted once before and I appreciate everyone's response.

However, I have gotten into a new problem again. This time this is with another Seiko 6309a and I just can't get it to run. The jewels of pallet fork does not engage properly with the escape wheel. Thus, the watch doesn't run. I really appreciate any help and I have added a link to the video of my issue.

Thanks!

https://youtu.be/HdLDZ4G1kkc?si=O3iR91dsPBwsJJYI

[HectorLooi]

Remove the balance and check that the impulse jewel is present and not broken. Then check that there is power at the pallet fork by moving it with a pegwood. 

[watchweasol]

Hi once the balance is removed check both the escape wheel pivots and the pallet pivots, and that the pallet stones are not loose.

[Reaz]

Hello There is no power at the pallet fork, so could there be problems with the pivots?

[HectorLooi]

Power down the mainspring, then remove the pallet fork. Then give the watch a slight wind to check if the gear train can run freely.

[Reaz]

Yes the gear train runs smoothly including the escape wheel

[HectorLooi]

Check that the pivots of the pallet fork are not bent or broken. Also check that the pallet jewels are not chipped, loose or misplaced. Close up photos will help.

[Reaz]

[HectorLooi]

The photos are a bit blurry. The pallet jewels ok. But I think the upper pivot looks a little bent. Could you get a sharper photo?

Check the pallet fork jewel holes too.

[Reaz]

Sorry for the blurry photos but that's the best I can get on my Google pixel.

[rehajm]

I don’t see a pivot problem. With the 6309a I’ve had the enjoyment of the pallet bridge in place, everything looks correct while the fork is seated incorrectly. Something about that thin upper jewel as I recall…

…long shot- seiko low amplitude. Did you have enough wind? 

[HectorLooi]

Use rodico to stick your loupe to the front of your camera lens. It will give a much clearer photo.

[Reaz]

I got it running!

https://youtube.com/shorts/qXy5Cp8ZLEg?si=cw1FR3x88LsI0C2i

[RichardHarris123]

What did you do? 

[Reaz]

I think the pallet fork finally sat in place randomly and got power. 

Well, the watch is running. I really appreciate everyone's help! Is the watch from 1978 according to the serial 855656?

Again thanks to everyone, this forum is very helpful for someone new like me. 

(And excuse the mold on the dial. The person who sold this to me said it didn't run for many years)

Edited January 20, 2024 by Reaz