***Apprentice Corner
This week’s tool is a set of oilers. One of the most common causes for vintage watches failing is because they’re bone-dry. With so many points of contact in a watch, if even one of them isn’t properly lubricated it can result in unnecessary friction that has a domino effect throughout the watch.
It’s not something to panic about, watches can function well for years before they need to be re-lubricated. A good rule of thumb is to have your watch serviced every 5-6 years. It’s better to be safe than sorry; replacing the jewels and pivots that have been worn out, especially in vintage watches, can often be near impossible.
The watchmaker’s oil is not your average oil. There are different types of oil for different parts of the watch, each one with different properties and viscosity. 1 ml of it costs $14 - that’s $14,000 per litre!
Thankfully, one bottle can last years if it’s well kept. Only the tiniest spec of oil is needed for most parts, which is why the tips of the oiling pens are as sharp as a needle. It’s a bit of an art form, knowing where and how much to apply is a skill that’s acquired with time.
Thankfully, one bottle can last years if it’s well kept. Only the tiniest spec of oil is needed for most parts, which is why the tips of the oiling pens are as sharp as a needle. It’s a bit of an art form, knowing where and how much to apply is a skill that’s acquired with time.
As a quick reminder, don’t forget to follow the Instagram account we recently made for rebelde here: @rebeldewatch.
I also started my own Instagram account where I’ll be posting pictures of some of the great watches I come across and other interesting watch-related things. Follow me @tylerhailwood.
I’ve just posted a photo of Nick and Joao Santos, where Joao is ‘supervising’ Nick’s work…
I’ve just posted a photo of Nick and Joao Santos, where Joao is ‘supervising’ Nick’s work…
Until next time,
Tyler
Tyler
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