Andonstar Digital Microscope Review. Any good for watchmaking?

This is a video review for the Andonstar AD407 digital microscope. Packed with really useful features. 4MP sensor, 4K recording ability. Can it be used in hobbyist watchmaking? watch to find out.
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Amazon Link - AD407 (7") geni.us/Andons...
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Affiliate links to the Andonstar AD409
Amazon Link: AD409 (9") geni.us/Andons...
AliExpress Link AD409 s.click.aliexp...
Smaller & cheaper 5" Andonstar Scope
Amazon Link - AD206 geni.us/Andons...
AliExpress Link AD206 s.click.aliexp...
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About me:
My name is Mike and I am a hobbyist watchmaker. I am completely self-taught in watch repair and restoration. My channel is all about my journey of hobbyist of watchmaking. I have watch repair tutorials, watch restorations and watch repair videos. Some of my content you can easily follow along to if you are working on the same watch movement. My main focus is to document my journey and inspire more people into this wonderful hobby and demonstrate that this hobby can be very rewarding. I do not profess to be a professional watchmaker and in my videos, I show all my mistakes, mishaps, highs and lows and keep everything as honest as possible. It is easy to edit all the mistakes out and make my videos look perfect but I believe that keeping it real reflects the true reality of this hobby. So, what are you waiting for? please check out my watch repair and restoration videos, get inspired and start your own watchmaking journey.
#watchrepair #watchrestoration #watchmaking

[@martinlouden9005]

I've always been a bit of a sceptic on these digital microscopes, but this has totally changed my point of view. I'm going to ask father Christmas to bring me one. I've been a very good boy this year! Great review Mike. Merry Christmas.

[@HandyHomestead]

I know this is a late comment, just watched the video. You can use a thin 0.5x Barlow lens which cuts the max magnification in half and doubles the height so you can work under it. I just ordered this Barlow lens today. Hope this helps if you are still using the Andonstar without the lens attachment as noted above. Great videos and Happy Christmas 😊

[@MyRetroWatches]

Thanks for the tip!

[@gcarlson622]

Thank you for doing this video, I just got one of these and haven’t used it too much yet, but now I feel I have enough knowledge to be able to start using it to its capability.

[@kelvin273]

Hi Mike, Really enjoyed the video, but opted for an Andonstar 246S. There is actually enough room under the boom to work, which is a great plus point. Another big plus is the fact that they supply a slide platform which is underlit. If you put a piece of white paper on that with tape, you can examine the light coming through each jewel so easily and detect any flaws. I have just started on this journey and had tried my first seiko 7005. It worked but was so far out that the timegrapher went on strike....only when i looked at it on this unit did I see the amount of detritus that my cleaning had left behind. Keep up teh great work.

[@occamraiser]

I LOVE that roll-top desk.

[@ygrbooks]

Thank you for this most informative video. I particularly liked your "rant" about the AmScope customer service/policy as it really contradicts all the good causes that you stand for.

[@Mymatevince]

Great review Mike, very clear image, looks good. I wish the working length was a bit higher. Fine to examine stuff, but hard to work under with the limited height 👍👍

[@MyRetroWatches]

A guy in the comments 3D printed a extension tube which got around that problem . Also you can tilt the unit back a bit and as long as you still can focus it would work. These are sold mainly for soldering and inspecting circuit boards

[@Mymatevince]

@@MyRetroWatches Cheers Mike👍

[@PE4Doers]

An excellent review. I bought one for work with computer circuits on my KZbin Channel. and I like it so far. I connect it to a large 4K monitor however, so I see things live that are very large, which is great for someone who wears two different sets of close-view eyeglasses. I also need the ability to record what I do for my videos content. Thanks for your help.

[@rileybeaupre8262]

Loved this video. Your videos have been a huge part of why I got into this crazy hobby. I can’t thank you enough! Keep up the great work.

[@MyRetroWatches]

Thank you so much.

[@brianrusso8018]

After watching your very informative video Mike, I found it on Amazon in the US for $221 US dollars. It's in my cart for sometime in the relatively near future. Thanks for a great review!

[@MyRetroWatches]

Hi Brian. I have links to it in the description of the video. If you use that on the day you purchase ( in the future) I will get a small kickback and it will cost you no more. Thanks

[@ThePhoenixlad]

I'd like to bet that you could make a new rack for the amscope. A bit of steel and a 'V' file and make the teeth. You can do it Mike. If not, someone on you're patron list will, I'm sure. 😉

[@sportclay1]

Absolutely right, Triangular file and and a bit of time will probably refresh the existing teeth.

[@timk.1395]

I have that AM scope, and have never had a problem.

[@MyRetroWatches]

That’s good to know. I do think I was just unlucky

[@TheUltimateRecycler]

Thanks Mike - perfect timing as I've been looking to buy some type of microscope. I think I'll go digital after watching this 👍 Nice rant by the way - totally agree with you as to how ridiculous the Amscope warranty situation is!

[@walther9161]

I like it! Thank you for the the review. As for the warranty issue, that’s the problem these days. I’d say you could make that part or make another type of system. Great video!!

[@danknabb2826]

He can take the part to a machine shop and they can easily replicate it in steel or a decent grade of aluminum. He could also take it off and put a hose clamp with a plastic thumb screw on the shaft (google hose clamp thumb screw).

[@BL4S7ER]

Great video, but the best part was when you touched on the issues with warranty repairs. This is a huge issue in modern society and contributes massively to landfill and our carbon footprint. Very few companies/businesses seem interested in changing their ways. It would require legislation to actively fix this problem. Something needs to be done!

[@MyRetroWatches]

Yes unfortunately we like to throw anything away. Since getting into watchmaking I try to repair anything ! I also now watch lots of fix it channels like My Mate Vince .

[@gpraceman]

I saw from another video that there are two mounting positions for the camera unit on the stand. You have it in the mounting position high up on the lens. Down at the bottom of the lens, near the red ring, there is a second mounting position. That would give you much more room to work under it with screwdrivers.

[@MyRetroWatches]

It does not unfortunately. With a movement in a holder and a screwdriver vertically it does not fit. Someone 3d printed a bracket to extend everything up another 2 inches and now it does. However never assembled under a scope. Not ever needed to as I do all work with loupes easier. I have recently made a new video on a new digital microscope that puts this one to shade. Is x3 bigger has 3 lenses and goes nearly 1 foot in the air. In that video I service a watch for the first time only using a microscope. Have a look at my recent videos if you are interested. It’s a LinkMicro microscope

[@gpraceman]

@@MyRetroWatches So, with the unit mounted near the bottom of the lens, there wasn't enough room to work under it? kzbin.info/www/bejne/gqWkqWuOr7J8eJY They do now have a "Pro" stand that gives extra height. I did see your other microscope video. Considered it, but am going to give the Andonstar AD246S-M a try, which also has a 3 lens setup like the LinkMicro.

[@paulwheelhouse7090]

I had one of these for christmas 2020 not this make and cost about £80 and found it very good, but over time I found it limiting, could not get a screwdriver under. After a bit of pondering I slackened the 2 screws and lifted the screen out, the lens part is fitted to the bottom of the screen and is not removable, put the stand and rack to one side, turned the scope on put a movement on my bench and held the scope above and just held it higher and higher till the bottom part of the lens was 30cm above the movement focused it in and still got a perfect picture on the screen. I then knocked up a quick bracket to hold it, made a boom out of a small bit of oak strip and I now have a scope that I can work on with screwdrivers. Just to confirm what mike said they do take a bit of getting used to using, but well worth the money

[@MyRetroWatches]

I have heard of other people doing a modification like this and whilst I would not personally work underneath it with screwdrivers I can understand that some people want to do this.

[@barrymerridan5891]

Hi, Just thought i would let you know. The scope can be raised up and the aluminum ring goes at the bottom, it can be a little wobbly if you knock it, but it does work, which will increase your focal length, I have the AD409 and it’s fantastic, hope it helps.

[@De4thInc4rn4te16]

i have the AD207 and it was a gamechanger for my hobbiest escapades, also tilting the whole scope backwards on its arm gives you enough clearance above the movement to work on it with screwdrivers etc, worth also pointing out the AD207 is currently £159 on amazon (though i was only £130 about 18 months ago) but it only records at HD1080p and not 4K, though this does not affect the view seen on the microscope screen, only the recorded video

[@povvercrazy]

i imported mine was under £100

[@theprogressivegoldbug1134]

I just bought the AD207 on your comment (I’m serious. Not trolling) Can’t wait to no longer be hunched over with a loupe that’s always fogging up on me! $143 on Amazon.

[@MyRetroWatches]

I had put links in the description for the 207 /407 & 409 to give people choice. I still would not want to use a screw driver under a scope anyway.

[@HandyHomestead]

I also bought the AD207 and am Using the tilt method. I did add a comment about adding a thin 0.5 Barlow lens which cuts the magnification in half and doubles the working height. I am also going to turn the mounting plate around and secure it so the bottom plate is at the back and my work mat is right under the scope. This requires either weighting the bottom plate or securing it to a larger piece of thin wood for example. I might just screw it right into my working table since it’s not an antique and will only need 1 screw. I will then reroute the lighting input on the bottom plate or not use it. I have a great led folding desk lamp and the light ring on the scope so we will see (no pun intended) after the Barlow I may be able to mount the reverse base scope on a platform to accommodate the double working height. Pretty fun playing with watches and all the tools.

[@alanmckinnon6791]

I was surprised to hear you have only one working eye Mike, because that is my problem too. I bought a lower feature version of one of these scopes for exactly the same reason you have one. Mine has a smaller screen, about 5" with less features in the menu. There is no dongle but the remote is the same and it looks like the optics and sensor is the same. The thing works well and by trying to do things at different distances and magnifications I can train my brain to work my hands the same with the eye looking elsewhere. And as you mentioned, screwdrivers don't work. There's always a loupe for that, or new specs! As for that rack, heaps of DIY people do machining for a hobby. I'll bet there's more than one of your subs who would happily mill you a new steel rack to the same spec if you pop the old one in the post.

[@MyRetroWatches]

I have a bad astigmatism from birth in my right eye. Basically my brain did not connect to it as a baby so it does not use it. So binoculars or scopes I’m really only using my good eye which is now failing as I reach 50.

[@felixangellopezalonso3993]

Hi Mike, you has two solutions with the problem of stereo microscope. 1 found a miller, is a straight piece and isn't complicated dentated, maybe too a jeweller can make it. 2 make the piece in a hard 3D plastic, is more cheap and you can order 3 or 4 for spare parts.

[@MyRetroWatches]

Thanks

[@darrencheshire8546]

Great review, stay safe and merry Christmas buddy in the Retro Household

[@MyRetroWatches]

Thanks, you too!

[@wanchai97]

I brought the AmScope in October this year and I have to agree that it is definitely a gamer changer for me. After watching your video, I went back and take a look at my unit. The up/down mechanism looks like is mainly made of aluminum so it will be just a matter of time before something wears out. I cleaned up the area and applied generous amount of lithium grease to that rail. Hopefully, it can last a bit longer. And yes, all it takes is a 5/64" hex key to take the rail out. My guess is, the expert from AmScope will not have reassemble a 6309 movement before.

[@MyRetroWatches]

good on you for greasing your scope again. I think I am just unlucky to be honest.

[@peha524]

About your old microscope. That is why you (and others) should join the Right to Repair movement. Crazy to send a items back to get it repaired for just standard parts. I would take the damaged part to a local machine shop and let them make a new rail, maybe for a box of beers. (sometimes it succeeded)

[@speedypaul2314]

Hi Mike. Amscope. Get them to cover the US postage if faulty or return it to where you purchased in the UK. Just ask for replacement unit. Parts they probably don't have anyway. Cheers

[@MyRetroWatches]

I bought it via their eBay shop and it was shipped from USA. Apparently they now have a place in Scandinavia but I am not allowed to ship there as it MUST go back to the place it shipped from.

[@IkeBrider]

Hi Mike. I got a replacement and all good. I worked out that it does record sound, which is only audible when played back on a device with a speaker.

[@MyRetroWatches]

Mine does not record sound. It has an audio track but it’s silent. I see it in my editing software.

[@paulleate5768]

thanks mike, great advise, thank you

[@thenutcracker2921]

Liked, commented, subscribed. Algorithm complete. Just wanted to say Thank You! I’m looking to get into the hobby and have started looking at tools I will need when microscopes came up. The first recommendation I found was for a B&L stereo and that led me to Am scope, which then led me to this. Great review and when you zoomed in on the jewels I was sold. I realize the craftsmanship on this is kind of poor and suspect it will have even worse gearing issues than the Am scope but at $200 you just have to suck that up. I’m sure Leica could build one of these that would be built like a tank, have silky smooth action, and amazing clarity at north of $2k. If need be I’ll take it off the rack and use a pole and clamp system once it starts to fail. The optics going out is an entirely different issue but at $200, say 10 years later, I’m not too concerned. I wear glasses, want to record video, and am working with a limited budget. All in all this seems like a pretty amazing piece of kit.

[@nigelfillis1275]

I have an one of these I paid about £130 I have 3d printed a spacer to lift the rail by 30mm the extra hight still has good magnification and I can use a screwdriver underneath the lens ,if you tilt the rail back your hand won't be blocking the view. your white paper is a good idea ,have to agree about the glare from the lights I might make some diffusers

[@MyRetroWatches]

That extension sounds brilliant. I don’t have a printer sadly. I covered my lights last night in masking tape ( decorators tape) it seemed to diffuse very well

[@jogo4587]

Hi Mike. I have noticed that the lens assembly can be raised and clamped lower, where the red ring is, giving you more clearance under the lens.

[@MyRetroWatches]

Yes thanks. I noticed this too after filming. Think (from memory) I showed it on the Tourbillon review. Was on a review video anyway . I should have known this before the video really but never mind.

[@IkeBrider]

I ordered via your link and got 13 quid discount - result! Sadly, when it arrived there was a black spot on the image which I assume, through elimination, was internal and maybe a bit of the assemblers lunch. Other than that, the image was amazing! Just re-ordered. Thanks for the video!

[@MyRetroWatches]

Your welcome. It does have a screw on UV filter so remove that to see if the dot is on there?

[@47zero]

Thanks, Very useful review.

[@izoyt]

this was really helpful, thnx.

[@mlwebb3143]

I love my AM scope it was a game changer

[@andrewinconspicuous4634]

Just a quick note. 4 megapixels in a 16:9 aspect ratio is roughly 2x the resolution of 1080p. Not the 4x 1080p require for 4k. 1920x1080=2,073,600 pixels (or 2.1 megapixels) (16:9 4k is 3840x2160=8,294,400 pixels (or 8.3 megapixels) Therefore, an 8.3 megapixel sensor is the bare minimum required for recording 4k video. I do not believe this microscope is recording true 4k. It is most likely upscaling 1080p (or, best case scenario, 1440p) to 4k. Good review though, I may pick one of these up instead of a stereo microscope. Thanks for the review.

[@MyRetroWatches]

The footage format is 4K as the resolution is correct. I don’t know other than that. Perhaps I got the 4mp bit wrong. I will read the specs again

[@andrewinconspicuous4634]

@@MyRetroWatches Sorry, I don't mean to be a snob. Just trying to point something out... cheers.

[@MyRetroWatches]

@@andrewinconspicuous4634 your not mate. It’s a valid point. I don’t know that kind of tech other than the files it saves are 4K resolution .

[@andrewinconspicuous4634]

@@MyRetroWatches Basically, what I think it is doing is taking a 1080p equivalent image from the sensor and then upscaling it to 4k. This has much less fidelity than true 4k from a 4k sensor. But it is "technically" 4k. 4k has 4 times the amount of pixels as 1080p. So what basic upscaling does is takes the value of one pixel and applies that to 3 more adjoined pixels. If you do this for every pixel in a 1080p image, you will be left with a 3840x2160 image. Although it will be much muddier than 4k, as I said before. Now, they could be using a slightly better upscaler, but I kind of doubt that that is the case here. That type of processing capability would make this scope much more expensive, and they would most likely just spend that higher budget on a true 4k sensor to save the complication of developing new software for the scope. Anyways, those are just my thoughts...

[@JonTheComputerDoctor]

Could you find a machine shop to make an improved part for your scope?.

[@unudoi9692]

I wouldn't bother with a replace part(that might fail as well in time), I'd just fit an arbor press. Most of them have a screw to keep it tight in place at a specific height and you can use all sort of clamps for microphones or cameras.

[@rbmwiv]

Funny story I had to go to the UK once for business and I live in North Carolina. A gentleman asked me if I ever drove out to California for the weekend. I had a hard time not laughing. So I asked him if he ever drove to Italy for the weekend? Then I informed him the US is about the size of Europe.

[@MyRetroWatches]

Haha. That said I’ve been in Cali as I have family there and people have honestly asked me if I know “so and so” lives in London! How small do they think the uk is!

[@jeff1176]

Good review Mike. Now I have to replace my AMSCOPE that I just got with the Andonstar, lol I have even used it yet!!!! Dawggone it. Lol

[@MyRetroWatches]

haha!

[@onkelRoar]

God reviw ;) and i notice your cap jewel is to small in your Helvetia Incablock settings, and that proves that the microscope do its job... ;)

[@MyRetroWatches]

That is correct. I think it’s just out of position

[@harrycutts2045]

Very good review. I have a cheap version of this but the screen is very poor quality and has nowhere near the resolution of the one you have. As for the Amscope, I wonder if you could take it to a metal worker and have a new piece made, maybe even an engineering company or a university/school. I'm sure they still do metal work in schools, just a thought, and it may cost you much less than sending it away. Looking forward to the second part of the Bullhead restoration.👍

[@MyRetroWatches]

I am in engineering but it’s not that simple to cut a new rack

[@poepflater]

Id get one of these cheap bathroom downlighters that doesn't need a hole as a light table underneath. I just checked, can get them for half the price you mentioned now.

[@rbmwiv]

Does it have any modes that make it black n white or negative. My one similar to yours but not as nice you can apply different filters and it will show things you can’t see in a regular picture. Well after further watching it does. It’s pretty handy feature.

[@mematitr]

i'm thinking about whether i should get the andonstar digital microscope or the amscope stereo microscope. the digital microscope is good for checking the movement. but you can work better on the movement with a stereo microscope. or what do you think? which one would you choose? you recommend me?

[@NouMoe55]

A temporary fix for the amscope might be to loosen the 2 bolds that hold the teeth part. Then place something between the teethpart and the scope (folded paper/thin metal ?) Then tighten the srews again.

[@keveh6093]

Very informative Mike. I’ve been looking to invest in a microscope & I too have the issue of wearing glasses. So the alternative with a screen or hooked up to a larger monitor is appealing. Thank you.

[@MyRetroWatches]

Glad it was helpful!

[@bobailik1570]

Have you noticed that the ruby is set aside. How it works though?

[@MyRetroWatches]

Its just off centre. I have to remove and reposition but not done this yet. Clearly it is not effecting it much.

[@sonvu9756]

Just my guess that cap jewel is no original.

[@petercampbell3828]

Good review. I wonder if a piece of green bench mat glued to the base would be a good modification so that parts would be less likely to slide and bounce away?

[@MyRetroWatches]

not a bad idea. with my Am scope I never really had issues with stuff moving and I don't think it would be much of an issue with the Andonstar as the base is allot bigger.

[@lobdsk]

Appalling they wouldn’t send that part. What a scam. That being said great review. I can’t wait to see your new videos

[@MyRetroWatches]

Thanks

[@gurudutt4746]

🇬🇧 👍💚 Hey Mike, I'm going to save up for one of those Andonstar Digital Microscopes...!! Thanks for another great Video.. (Love ALL your Videos, bro)

[@MyRetroWatches]

Thank you. Good luck with your watchmaking.

[@gurudutt4746]

🇬🇧👍💚 Cheers bro...! 😉

[@TATICMOOR]

Maybe it is best to get someone to knock up a 3D printed part in a harder but durable filament. To have extra spares done to future proof yourself for the next time when it wears out to replace it again. It would probably be less than a 50p to make and to save the STL file on your laptop/pc to make more at a later date. If I wish to have a watch or two fixed, eg, a Pocket Watch 18kGP (double hunter) and an Accuist (1986 my 21st b'day) a gift from my late 92yo mum RIP 28/12/23 fixed. Would you be able to do them for me? If so, how to go about it. Maybe they could be good content for your channel viewers under your new digi-scope. Cheers, JayCee.

[@erikblicherstasiak2803]

Hi Mike. Thanks for your great video. So i'm thinking of getting one of those digital microscopes, probably a pro version of the Andonstar, seems like they solved some of the issues with the first verisons, so now for example there is more distance to the workspace under the lens on the new version , so wanted to ask about yours. How is it now, are you still happy with it, and is it still working well? Because i've read about some of them stop working anymore after a only few months, så was wondering about the overall quality? Thanks :)

[@MyRetroWatches]

Please check out my latest video as it’s on a much better scope. I posted the video only 2 days ago

[@railwaymaniac]

As you can take out the worn part on the AmScope, can you get a replacement part 3-D printed????

[@jogo4587]

Cheers, just the review I was looking for. Even better to learn 1st hand so called warranty/support experience. I'm curious how Andonstar support their products?

[@MyRetroWatches]

On the fence with Andonstar warranty but as you can buy them from Amazon it might be possible to return via them should an issue occur.

[@anair70]

Great video...need to get one of these electronic microscopes. One point.. on the close up of the balance cock, the cap jewel looks undersized?

[@MyRetroWatches]

Yes something is not right with the jewel .

[@paulleate5768]

hi mike great videos. could you tell me, do you find your amscope has enough clearence to work under.thinking of buying one to improve my watch hobby. cheers.. paul

[@MyRetroWatches]

Yes and no. I would never work totally under a scope as you loose peripheral vision in my opinion. You far better off with loupes or head visors. I only use a head visor for rebuilds at x2.5. I use scope for oiling and inspecting . I much prefer my optical scope to a digital too as looking at a screen and directing your hands to the movement is another skill entirely. The big AM boom arm scopes are the ones to have if you want to work under 100%.

[@walther9161]

Second time looking at this vid. Are you still using this scope/screen?

[@davelowey3074]

That's why you couldn't see anything the other day. Good review Mike, and a good microscope. O it's NTSC. 😁 old gamer. What was the moment Mike i saw an I and 64? P.S the incabloc jewel looks a little small for it's setting. Did you do that to see who noticed? Not that it won't work it totally will. The joys of watchmaking is flying parts or finding them. I have seen that before very hard to fix/sevice. Mike.

[@MyRetroWatches]

Did I say NTFS?? Damn you Microsoft!

[@pipodorologio1648]

nice review Mike,....don't like the lights myself...I got one with a ring light around the scope itzelf, this gives better lighting but that is personal.

[@MyRetroWatches]

I’ve seen those rings and they look fantastic . Not sure I could retrofit one though

[@Torskel]

im looking around for alternatives for loupes which fucks with my neck

[@watchmedraw4340]

This microscope is awesome. Do you know what I would try for the led lights? An opec film in front of the lights. This comes to mind when I buy lightbulbs. I always go for the frosted bulbs because of the glear when drawing.

[@MyRetroWatches]

Good idea. I will see if I can find what you are talking about

[@100amps]

I agree. I think diffusing the light would probably help calm down the reflections. Any kind of translucent material could work. You'll have experiment. The goal is to move from a sharp point light source to a large even one. Good luck!

[@dsb1763]

Hi Mike, Have you considered finding a local machine shop and ask if they could remake the rack for you?

[@MyRetroWatches]

Lots of people are saying this. I actually work in engineering ! Not that simple to do and time is money. In the uk a decent machine shop is £35-40 per hour plus vat. In principle I want AM to replace it…

[@Dobbo2958]

Interesting video thank you...

[@galaxygalaxy4389]

hi and thank for the detailed video. I have some basic question - what is the working distance on this microscope? means, is it possible to work using this microscope or this is only for inspection? also, can you please share which model is your stereoscope? many thx!

[@MyRetroWatches]

I would only really work on this for inspection. Apparently there is a part you can 3d print to make it stand allot taller. I have one that a viewer sent in. I'd still recommend a AMScope with a boom arm.

[@galaxygalaxy4389]

@@MyRetroWatches many thx!

[@RocketSailing]

Good review! Im pondering about this scope. Quality seems better than I thought. Question, is it possible to hook up to a computer or an external screen? Looks possible to do some work under the scope. Personally, Im wondering about hairspring work. My drawer of botched hairsprings need to be filled up, less regulary. 😂

[@MyRetroWatches]

It has a micro hdmi out port so yes you can hook it up .

[@owengoodspeed5763]

Since it appears that your old microscope rack mechanism is easily disassembled and reassembled, do you have any way of getting a new part made up for you? A friend who is a toolmaker or model engineer for example?

[@MyRetroWatches]

I am in engineering ironically but it’s not that simple to cut a rack at the right pitch to match the pinion .

[@HeikosGarage]

Good video.thanks

[@arvinclassics]

Can it zoom out to show the whole movement so as to allow you to work on it? Or is it purely for inspection?

[@MyRetroWatches]

Not exactly. You can set the whole lens thing much further up but still too much magnification to show the whole movement. I did show this in my Chinese Tourbillon video as I didn’t find out until after this review. I never recommend working under a scope other then for specific jobs. You can be far more accurate with loupes .

[@sergiohegner8844]

Hello! Could you please tell me which model is your AmScope?

[@MyRetroWatches]

This one geni.us/AMScope

[@jumpinspider6489]

Hi Mike, What about 3D printing a new part for the AmScope? Unfortunately I don't have a 3D printer (yet) but I'm sure you'll find some experienced guys on the channel who would love to help you out. Uhhh, I just realised the video is half a year old - I'm sure you have found a solution already. 😎

[@MyRetroWatches]

I have since got a new rack for the AMScope. A viewer came to the rescue for me.

[@turborunner]

@@MyRetroWatches I wonder if you add some silicone grease to help to reduce the wear to the rack? might make it last longer

[@Ba_Yegu]

As it happens I just got a USB Microscope too! I ogled at the cheaper Andonstar AD206 but as it got only 1024x600 7" Screen I decided for a DM-9 as it boasted Full HD for the 7" screen too. There are a few reviews of DM-9 Microscope on the YT if somebody would like to have a look.Price was about 90€. The Minimum Magnification looks even higher than in that Andonstar, what is annoying, but I'm soon building an extension boom of about 7cm, which should provide both larger view and more headroom for working at the Microscope. Wouldn't work be easy on that Microscope if You'd take advantage of the "3D" view and tilt the scope AWAY from You? The actual screen seems to tilt forward too, so You'd have plenty of room to work and a view from high behind the object, which may be challenging to get familiar to. : )

[@MyRetroWatches]

Thanks. I’ve tried tilting the lens back but what you get is a lack of focal range so you can focus on some parts but not the whole thing

[@AstonColey]

Wow the Amscope rack is not good and Amscopes' warranty procedure seems ridiculous. I was wondering if a 3D printer could not make you tougher more reliable rack. You could take an impression of the faulty rack to get the tooth spacing and send to 3D print shop. Dont know what the cost would be, just an idea. Great review and I am considering the Andonstar AD409 after watch ing your review so thanks Mike. Pity the Adonstar does not have audio recording facility.

[@MyRetroWatches]

Someone else just bought the AD409 so I will add some links in the description. AM Scope is a good product but the warranty is next to useless for me. There are many ideas on making a new rack which can possibly be done but at what expense.... I can still use it but I have to just force it past the worn spot for the pinion to pick it back up again.

[@lobdsk]

Hey what model is that unit

[@roywadsworth981]

has anyone tried turning balance staffs,using one of these, and how did it perform.

[@valengreymoon5623]

Where did you acquire that Seiko day / date shirt?

[@MyRetroWatches]

Here: vario.sg/collections/horology-t-shirts

[@valengreymoon5623]

@@MyRetroWatches Very cool. Thank you.

[@ShaunSommer]

I just purchased a $60 version of this just to see how it goes. We'll see how it works, maybe I will post some videos from it to my channel...which has next to nothing on it lol

[@raknin]

Can you disassemble a watch movement under this microscope, can this microscope can be place a 25 cm high abobe the movement so you can disaseemble it and recird under the microscope?

[@MyRetroWatches]

No. I would never recommend that anyway I can do nearly all work with a x2.5 loupe. Only microscopes that you can work under if that’s really what you want to do is using a boom arm stereoscope microscope. They are considerably more expensive

[@josephe9773]

Is there any lag with the andonstar digital microscope when working with the watch on the screen?

[@MyRetroWatches]

Not that I have noticed no.

[@josephe9773]

@@MyRetroWatches Excellent! Do you prefer this digital microscope over the traditional Amscope for working with watches? I’m on the fence which one to go for. I’d like to be able to work on them whilst being able to see through the microscope. I’ve heard through the digital microscope you have a lack of 3D depth which can make it more difficult? Whereas the Amscope microscope you have the full 3D depth and stereoscopic field of vision through the eye pieces. What’s your experience of this now you’ve had both devices? Thank you so much. Your help will make me decide which one to go for. Looking forward to seeing more of your videos in the future.

[@MyRetroWatches]

@@josephe9773 depends on your budget. Personally I use both but my preference is the stereoscope for the same reasons. It’s more natural to use. The digital is good for recording and getting real close but I still find it a bit alien. A friend of mine did a great video on AMScope but he has a much more expensive model. kzbin.info/www/bejne/gIKplYywipKdo5o

[@dodgydruid]

If you need a new home for the Amscope... I have toyed with the idea of one of these Andonstars but from other KZbinrs who have used the Amscope on an arm e.g. The Cod3r and he does just fine with the Amscope so that is the solution for me as simple glass lenses are just not cutting the mustard with me diabetic old eyes lol

[@Fischi4711]

Nice shirt. I have the same.

[@georgepaice9813]

To get a screwdriver under it u just Lean the Angle Bach at a angle and u can do it

[@MyRetroWatches]

True. Someone else mentioned this. To be honest I still won’t do that , I have no need to tighten screws under a scope plus the angle of the picture plus having to look at the screen and not the movement is very disorienting for me.

[@bullet5brain]

just got a scope. how do you record your videos while using a loupe or headband(forgot the name)B.

[@MyRetroWatches]

I don’t I take them off…

[@bullet5brain]

@@MyRetroWatches how do you get your close-ups up when working on parts. admit i am a bit of a thicko when it comes to some tech but i would like to learn as i am ok when shown. thanks Mike. B.

[@MyRetroWatches]

@@bullet5brain all macro shots are recorded on the scope that I am reviewing in this video your posting on. It has a record feature. Other shots are done with a camera or phone. Nothing is easy filming watches and if you want to do it right you need 1000$ in camera and lighting

[@bullet5brain]

@@MyRetroWatches THANKS FOR THAT.

[@danashcroft961]

use the digital zoom without having to wind it up or down...

[@stetsonsteve]

You could try to find an engineering company who could make one for you, it would probably be cheaper than sending it off to Canada.

[@MyRetroWatches]

I work in engineering ! Everyone is suggesting this and I will probably do it but it will be expensive £40 -50 all day long . Principle is AM Scope should pay!

[@VicDzenFPV]

Actually, the top jewel is of wrong size in that shock assembly

[@richardtreem864]

🤣 That was driving me nuts!

[@MyRetroWatches]

i didnt put it there! its a movement on my bench that I used for the video. yes its either too small or off centre. at close magnification its hard to really tell as it looks worse than it would normally.

[@richardtreem864]

@@MyRetroWatches 🤣No worries… I just really wanted to fix it!

[@rbmwiv]

Record in the 60fps setting and you will get slow motion.

[@jamiebrown1065]

A good local machinist could knock that rack out in a couple hours, out of steel. You could probably do it with a steel bar and a couple of files.

[@lomopobre]

Does anyone know the model number of this Andostar microscope?

[@MyRetroWatches]

AD407 I say it in the description of the video with links to them

[@mevagisseymedic]

has anyone tried the Andonstar AD106S USB Digital Microscope. not 4k but 1080p

[@EmrysImmortal]

See if you can get someone local to manufacture a new part. Shouldn't be that hard to make.

[@PpaStrmpf]

That looks like a nice toy. I'd say for me is the hardest thing by tinkering on watch movements to keep it clean. Own skin flakes, cloth fibers, dust you name it it's there. Must invest in cleaning station.

[@MyRetroWatches]

as a hobbyist its very hard to stop dust etc. If you use a blower just get into a habit of using it.

[@TacBlades]

Great reviewed loved it, but way over priced, for that price i would want a rock solid stand heavy duty stand, better lighting solution. Its a no for me, but I can see a future where they will be as cheap as chips and amazing quality. Maybe they have something cheap ok purely for inspection only.

[@MyRetroWatches]

That’s fair enough. I do think it’s not the best metalwork but it will still do the job and is firm on the base when on the bench .

[@lobdsk]

You sold me I bought one

[@MyRetroWatches]

I hope you will be pleased with it. If you used my link thank you very much. Sir.

[@ntag411]

I think the warranty for the AmScope in the UK is a joke, basically translates into no warranty. I've seen gear issues in products that you'd think would be quality but are not. The machine is a ice shaver that's looks like a drill press made in Japan. A small gear connects to a large gear, the small gear is shaped funny. Most likely heavily worn and the gears no longer interact. I'd say poor design. Sure it's also user neglect because the gears and bearing need to be lubed periodically but it's also the design. The both gears appear to be made of zinc, not a good material for this application. The small gear having much less surface area should be made of steel. The large gear should be made of brass/bronze. Even with the lack of proper maintenance the gears will last a lot longer. Like your AmScope the maker of the ice shaver will not supply the part and they require the entire unit to be shipped to Japan from the USA. Be careful of buying a no brand product. They tend to come out with break-thru (unproven) products that the majors will not. Unknown or unpopular brands have no reputation to uphold in terms of the product build and warranty service.

[@shawnstuart1029]

the rack looks a bit bent. Perhaps overcompensate the bend in the other direction to get more life out of it.

[@MyRetroWatches]

Yes it’s bent. It’s relieved in the middle for no reason whatsoever. I think the whole part was cast rather than machined.

[@SideWalkAstronomyNetherlands]

get that part from Ali

[@MyRetroWatches]

Not that simple. If you look at the rack it’s relived in the middle. I am contemplating AliExpress but I need to be sure it’s exactly the same size. Equally AMScope should just send me a new rack!!

[@DM-mm1eb]

WAIT A MINUTE! You are a watch maker. Just get some good metal (better than the pot medal used for that linear gear) and make your own part using a set of files.

[@MyRetroWatches]

I’m no watchmaker. Plus to hand file steel would mean the steel is of poor quality. I run a business that makes and sells precision tool steel. I’d never file that stuff.!

[@DM-mm1eb]

@@MyRetroWatches I am a subscriber and I responded to your video because I share the same sentiment about how getting a simple part is such a hassle in this "throw away world". I was trying to be encouraging and supportive because, after watching many of your videos, I think you are cable of using tools to fix things. For me, that part is something that a local machine shop could get to the right dimensions for a nominal fee. Next you could align the blank with the old piece and scribe the right gear angles and then file the gears groves. This may sound difficult but one of the first things they use to do new machinist students is to give them a block of still and have them work it into a part with basic tools like a hack saw, sand paper, and files. I was not being negative. I was saying you got this man. Sorry for any confusion.

[@DM-mm1eb]

Also, after you start with mild steal, there are simple ways of hardening the linear gear for that microscope after you make it.

[@MyRetroWatches]

@@DM-mm1eb I did not take any offence so don’t apologise. If I am to make a new one it will be from tool steel. I would rather AM scope send me one though!

[@100amps]

AmScope, the Timex of microscopes. Disposable, unfixable. Takes a lickin' and gets tossed in the bin when dead.

[@MyRetroWatches]

Pmsl!!😂😂

[@georgeliquor2931]

Looks like the cap jewel is cracked

[@MyRetroWatches]

Not cracked just on off centre.