Breathing New Life into a Legendary Seiko Chronograph - Lessons in End-Shake/Sci-Fi Prop or Vintage Gem? Reviving a Nearly NOS Croton Aquamatic Watch

roadwarrior

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Sci-Fi Prop or Vintage Gem? Reviving a Nearly NOS Croton Aquamatic Watch​

Weekend Watch Repair
Jun 7, 2024

Join us as we dive into the fascinating world of watch restoration with a truly unique project: This is a Croton Aquamatic watch, and it is certainly unique, featuring a distinctive crown positioned at 6 o'clock, and an eye-catching UFO-style case that looks straight out of a sci-fi movie. Despite its quirky design, the watch was in remarkable cosmetic condition when we found it. It is using an AS 1903 movement.

In this video, we'll guide you through the entire rebuild process. We'll work meticulously to preserve the original crystal, using various techniques to bring it back to its former glory. Alongside this, we'll rebuild all the internal components to ensure the watch runs perfectly.

Whether you're a watch enthusiast, a sci-fi fan, or just curious about the art of restoration, this video has something for you. Watch as we bring this eccentric Croton watch back to life.

Enjoy the video!


My thanks to VGreen for their generous offer of 15% off any of their excellent hand-made leather watch straps.

Go to http://vgreenco.com and use the code - WeekendWatchRepair - at checkout
You can also go through this link to have the discount automatically applied: https://vgreenco.com/discount/Weekend...




https://novicewatchmaking.wordpress.com/tag/as-1903/

https://ranfft.org/caliber/886-AS-1903

https://onatelier.co.uk/bucherer-automatic-a-schild-cal-1903-service
 
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Breathing New Life into a Legendary Seiko Chronograph - Lessons in End-Shake​

Weekend Watch Repair
Jun 26, 2024

Join us as we revive a legendary Seiko 6139-6010 Chronograph from March 1970, famously associated with Bruce Lee. This 'Proof' model required multiple repairs and precise end-shake adjustments to bring it back into running condition.

Experience the challenges and triumphs of reviving this well-preserved timepiece, as I am reminded of valuable lessons about end-shake adjustments.

Enjoy the video!


Chapters:
0:00 Intro
0:22 Inspection
03:40 Disassembly
18:36 End Shake Issues
20:01 Remaining Disassembly
23:28 Pre-Cleaning
24:33 Repairs
27:08 Reaming & Jewel Upgrades
30:36 Barrel End Shake Adjustment
31:16 Final Cleaning
33:00 Case Disassembly
35:20 Re-Luming Hands
37:21 Assembly
54:32 Chrono Runner Inspection
55:27 Initial Timegrapher - Post Repairs
55:49 Assembly Continued
1:06:16 Case Assembly
01:07:04 NEW TOOL TIME!
01:07:38 Casing & Final Assembly
01:12:42 Final Timegrapher Readings
01:13:27 Completed Watch

Full Tools & Equipment Breakdown:
https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet...ivK75S0-do/edit?gid=2117372444#gid=2117372444

Here are some links to the microscope & camera/ lighting setup pieces I'm using. By using the affiliate link, you will not pay any more but I'll receive a very small commission on any sales.

Microscope Setup links
Microscope
► Camera
► 0.5X Barlow Lens
► Ring Light
► Adapter Mount
► Adapter Shim

Cameras & Lighting links
► Nikon Z30
► Nikon Z30 w/Wide Angle Lens
► Nikon NIKKOR Z MC 50mm f/2.8
► Nikon NIKKOR Z MC 105mm f/2.8 VR S
► Mini LED
► Architect Desk Lamp
► Desk Mount For Lighting
► Adjustable Mount For Bench Lighting
► Bench Lighting
► Tripod 1
► Tripod 2
► Ball Head Mount
 
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