Cowells CW90 Lathe ruined. BHI Watchmaking Course | Watchmaking Vlog #6

[@viduata9000]

It's like the first scratch on a new car. At first, you're pissed off, but then you realize you've been liberated.

[@DeanDK]

+viduata9000 Bwhahha great analogy! Cheers :)

[@absentmindedprofesor]

right now you are upset, but later you will realize it adds character to your tooling and a hilarious story for you to share with friends and peers. as someone else mentioned, you can always repaint it down the road. loving your videos. Can't wait to see more watchmaking. I've been a machinist for the last decade but never made stuff so small. I would very much like to get started.

[@DeanDK]

+absentmindedprofesor Thanks for your comment. Hehe yeah I can see that happening now. Yeah I wanted to try get another vid out this week but looking like early to mid next week. Will have more machining and making of the watch!

[@kingoffoxez]

Just go all in and cove everything with lay out

[@DeanDK]

🤣😂🤣

[@scotth6848]

Dean, just found your channel a few weeks ago. Needless to say I have been watching every spare moment I have...which is not very much. I have a lot to say, but this is not the place for a long read. So I will encapsulate my thoughts as best as possible. Your videos are very important for those of us with a strong interest in watchmaking in general. The videos themselves are very clear and great to watch, the detail is superb. I am very intrigued with your journey, and very happy you are willing to spend your valuable time putting this all on video for us. As a tradesman all my life, fabricator, welder, basic machinist, everything you are showing has great value to me and others. Sometimes I think you and Chris from ClickSpring are related...lol! My interest lies in antique pocketwatch restoration and repair, but anything in watchmaking holds my interest. Just bought an Atlas lathe, 6", model 618 (I think). Needs work, but it will help me build some of the tooling you show us how to make for a watchmakers lathe. My apologies for the rant, thank you so very much Dean.

[@DeanDK]

+Scott H Thank you for your comment! I am grateful you took the time to write. Lol! Chris and I are not related as far as I am aware haha! That is awesome! If you end up taking pictures of your work feel free to share on my FB or tag me if you use instagram.

[@jacoboakley7108]

Hi Dean - Thanks for the videos! I've used a dry erase marker to remove sharpie from smooth surfaces. Completely cover the sharpie using small circular motion. Once dry, wipe off as you would the regular dry erase. No idea if it'll work on your layout fluid, but it's worth a try!

[@Forensic1Man]

Hi, Great videos and well done demonstrations for watchmakers!! One thing that I need is to have both tap and die left-handed threads. For some of the watches I work on, they require left-handed threads for some mainspring arbors and other posts and screws! Left-handed screw-plates are few and far between. So, any help to make left handed screw and hole threads? If you keep working on many different kinds of watch repairs, you too will find that these left-handed tap and dies are needed!

[@DeanDK]

Hi, thanks for taking the time to watch and reach out to me. I actually ahve a video where I made a left-handed threading die from scratch used for the crown wheel on my watch. It can be found here kzbin.info/www/bejne/iXbHnneqfLqpbbc

[@donlunn792]

Used Dychem/Dykem at work. I feel your pain. Horrible stuff if you make a mistake with it. Couple of guys at work,got into a fight. One smashed the aerosol tin of Dychem on a protruding stud and sprayed it over the other guy. Both got suspended ( Yep on full pay) 6 months on full pay. End of 6 months the guy who sprayed the other had found another job.Other guy reinstated. 😀😀😀 I have to say,that both of them were Brilliant welders. Two of the best I have ever worked with. We used Dychem/Dykem for crack detection. Along with another product that I forget. Probably another Dychem product.

[@aldensquared]

Thanks for the BHI info! I think I'll try out their distance course after I get settled at my new job. Personally, I think the spill adds charm to the lathe. Looking forward to your next video!

[@DeanDK]

+aldensquared Thank you for your comment. Thats awesome, check out the website and all the free info they have before jumping in. If you confident its right for you, you wont look back :)

[@aldensquared]

I will do just that!

[@PrussianRedWhiteBlue]

I had a similar episode.. cleaning my lathe with WD 40 fast penetrant stripped the paint off like stripper! Colin at Cowells told me the blue paint he uses for the new machines is from Halfords just the standard blue. Think he said it’s Hammerite

[@DeanDK]

Thanks this is super helpful!

[@kentan2046]

Hello Dean, it not easy to be independent watchmaker but is a passion of what you really wanted to achieve, my personal understanding for AHCI members few of them did not attended watchmaking school, i'm sure with your passion you can achieve what you wanted! Cheers 🥂!

[@DeanDK]

+Ken Tan Thanks Ken! Yes this is true, I am a big fan of Hajime Asaoka. Thank you :)

[@sheminger]

Wet sand and then high speed polish it. Polishing it alone with rubbing compound may do it by itself. Just depends how deep it penetrated. Then put some car wax on it to protect it.

[@watchtoolkit4247]

Maybe try some acetone on the paint, it shouldn't take of the enamel paint but hopefully it will lift away the dye. I know if your in the UK there are monthly member events with a guest speaker and also auctions for clocks, watches and tools. As always great video!

[@DeanDK]

+Cameron Fraser Thanks Cameron I will try Acetone. Oh wow that sounds awesome, unfortunately I'm on the other side of the pond in Austalia

[@matthewcondon1985]

Great info! Definitely looking into the BHI distance learning program!

[@DeanDK]

+Matthew Condon Thanks Matthew, all the best. If you have any questions I will answer them to best of my knowledge for you

[@matthewcondon1985]

Thanks!!!

[@MaxWattage]

I have found that the best solvent for cleaning Dykem blue off metal is Acetone (NOT isopropyl alcohol). It doesn't even need to be 100% Acetone, as even a 50% solution with water, on a rag, seems to work well. I can't vouch for how this might react with your paintwork, so test an inconspicuous area to determine the effect, and don't over do it. Nail varnish remover is a good domestic source of dilute acetone (check the ingredients, as some types use methyl ethyl ketone (MEK) instead). NB: Acetone is very flammable, and should be used in a well ventilated area.

[@MaxWattage]

PS: I have found out that Dykem aka Marking blue is made by mixing methylated spirits with shellac and gentian violet. This would imply that methylated spirits ought to be best solvent, (although this might attack the paint). However, an alternative approach to dissolving the Dykem with a solvent would be to use dilute bleach to neutralise the gentian violet colouration. This might be safer to the underlying paintwork.

[@DeanDK]

Nicholas. Thank you for your very detailed insight into this. It is awesome and Im sure anyone who seea this will also benefit. I did try acetone however it reacts with the paint, I may try 50% mixture in the future. Thanks Nicholas!

[@csspinner]

Can you please share where you purchase the files to cut the slot heads of watch screws?

[@aserta]

One of the reasons i never bought new tools if i could do it. You put them on a pedestal and never fully appreciate them. Well, that, and i like to take them apart from day one, and if it's new, i feel really guilty towards the wallet, if i do it, and mess up. Like that one time i took apart a Starrett test dial indicator and i couldn't match the movement to the spring in the dial anymore. Had to watch a few repair videos online till i figured out the trick. < yes, i am that kind of an idiot, and i'm proud of it, because more than once has it saved my bacon later down the road.

[@Sixx3r]

Just leave those stains, they will be a memory we can talk about it in a few years when I buy a watch made by you. Love your videos man, my girl is trying to make me vacuum and do the dishes, but I have to watch all your vids first! :D

[@DeanDK]

HAHAHA! Thanks man, I hope you don't get in too much trouble! That would be awesome to meet up and chat, whenever :D

[@Tracks777]

Excellent video. Keep it up!

[@swordsworn7]

Can you please give all the data on the file you're using on the screw heads? Other than Swiss and No.4

[@teegeesg]

LOL at your front image, and somewhat LOL at your mishap. Sorry :) You'll find it funny too after 6 months of mourning. When I got a shiny new Sieg SC4 lathe some years back, I started using a cutting oil that had some compound in it that coated half the lathe with an indelible brown stain. My two month old lathe looked like it was 10 years old. I wasn't exactly pleased with that.. But wait, there's good news too! The BHI member forum was reopened a few months back. I just posted a new thread about my intermediate year exams experience. Add yours too :)

[@DeanDK]

+teegeesg Lol cheers! Damn sorry to hear about the Sieg, that is def worse that what ahppened to me? Ahh really! Awesomr I need to get back in on there.. thanks for that info I will update people in a future vid.. Cheers!

[@postholedigger8726]

Dean, Have you tried lacquer thinner (not paint thinner). Test your try out chemicals on another painted surface first. david

[@DeanDK]

+Vivienne Pierce Thanks David, I am waiting for response from Cowells. I have Acetone was going to try that and then lacquer thinner as per you guys comments. Thanks Heaps :)

[@littlestworkshop]

Maybe this is resolved but Isopropanol works well but perhaps it has interacted with the paint, in which case you have a restoration project :)

[@Davek595]

I'd use acetone dryish to damage the paint as little as possible but it will ruin the paint some.

[@DeanDK]

+Dave 465 Thanks dave! I think I have just accepted the look Haha!

[@juanrivero8]

Pity about the dye-kem. Try acetone. It should not harm the paint. At least the lathe is mechanically intact.

[@DeanDK]

+Juan Rivero Thanks Juan! I will try Acetone :)

[@PrussianRedWhiteBlue]

If you still have this problem you might want to try a polishing compound like Meguiars ScratchX. This is a very fine liquid automotive polish..

[@AtelierDBurgoyne]

Hi Dean! so I am really sorry about the Dykem accident. But is was an accident and hope you will not blame yourself. Shit happens. All of the comments re acetone and lacquer thinner are correct. However, don't rush into doing something until you contact Cowell's and ask them what solvent will not damage the paint. I think it is worse to cause damage the lathe's paint than to have patches of Dykem on it. With the paint, you have an easier surface to clean and it will stay protected against rust and cutting fluid (if you ever use it). Daniel

[@DeanDK]

+AtelierDBurgoyne Thanks for your comment and support Daniel. I have emailed Cowells, just waiting, I will most likely try acetone in one spot though. That is true! Great wisdom thanks :)

[@TheElderlyBiker]

Dean, I'd be pretty upset as well! A tidy/clean workshop means I work in the same manner. Dykem do a removing fluid so I wouild try that first. Let us know how you get on.

[@DeanDK]

+Matt Harrington I think Im going to have to try that! Cheers :)

[@arbiterofreason2068]

I'm using Marks courses over at Watch Repair Channel. They're good, cheep and all I need to prep myself for my BHI Courses. FBHI here I come. Oh and thanks for the channel too, you're an inspiration :)

[@DeanDK]

That's awesome to hear Arbiter. Mark is great and provides really great info. You can do it man! Thanks, that is inspiring to me man

[@arbiterofreason2068]

@@DeanDK Practice makes perfect right lol

[@andrew_owens7680]

Acetone or xylol takes out everything. But vent the heck out of your studio or take it outside and use a respirator. It's bad for you, but it'll get the job done. I used to clean silk screens with that.

[@dynamicsinesdynamicsines1161]

hay man at least the lathe runs fine, nobody needs to see that other than your ego bro, cheer up

[@DeanDK]

Thanks for this, completely agree with you!! Thank you 🙏🏼 😁

[@CandidZulu]

Boeshield Blade and Bit Resin Gum and Pitch Remover or Boeshield Rust Free - Rust and Stain Remover can be found on ebay, they might work!? (but I never tried them!)

[@DeanDK]

+Baikal IZH35M Thank you for your suggestions! I might give them a go if I find time. I have almost accepted the look now though hehe

[@remcolangbroek656]

Acetone should take care of the marker. If you strip the paint of the lathe in the process... So what? You can always repaint or touch up the lathe. The only function of the paint is to prevent the lathe from rusting (and esthetics. pffrt)! A pink lathe could be a real collector's item :)

[@DeanDK]

Haha oh pink would definitely be considered rare and collectible 😁 yeah thanks, it happened recently after purchasing and this was my most expensive machine purchase ever, which took years.

[@andyvan5692]

sorry for your loss, how about using whiteboard marker instead??, it comes off with a moist towel or with the "diggers" mentholated spirits that you have shown, and best of all, if a mistake is made, you can erase it fast and the product is permanently contained in the "pen" dispenser.

[@DeanDK]

+andy van hmmm thats interesting I might give that a go first actually! Thanks Andy :)

[@andyvan5692]

nice green flame on the screw tempering part :))) ; on the paint spill, maybe just get a good "lock' onto the colour of the base paint and have the whole thing re-painted, sorry, but that's the only way to get rid of it { any solvent for the "layout Blue" will craze the finish on your lathe base, because if nail polish remover or turps won't shift it, the solvent is likely to be similar to lacquer thinner ( as in artist paint) so YES it will damage the lathe paint, looks like a nice car candy paint too :(...} but if you do re-paint the base put a "gloss over coat" on it, just like on a car paint job, will make sanding any further accidents off easy- only the top layer would need a re-paint.

[@aHigherPower]

Just found your channel...interesting stuff, love it! How you have enough patience just making screws is amazing in and of it's self. lol

[@chrisblight6069]

I thought from the title you had actually damaged your lathe but it's just a bit of a stain, some of the lathes/machines I've used over the years have been beaten up like crazy but have worked just great. As long as you keep your maintenance up it will last you a very long time but it will look like it should be, used.

[@ingot_buddy]

Thank you so much for the video, I hope things turn out better for you soon!

[@DeanDK]

+Drawing watches Thanks :) we will see, I think I am passed it now haha!

[@traviswalker8874]

Brake parts cleaner from the auto store, will remove it or acetone. just do a small area with a q-tip on the paint to see how it reacts to the cleaner.

[@kobaabok9999]

I appreciate the info on BHI. I'm planning on going that rout myself. I was wondering, if you know practically nothing about watchmaking if you have to start with the lvl 3 course, before moving to lvl 4 or if ll 4 for starts from the ground up as well. I emailed the folks at BHI, but didn't get a response. Thanks! Your videos are a huge source of motivation.

[@DeanDK]

Sorry for the late reply. I have been a little unwell, I can't seem to shake it. You don't need to know anything to start any of them. But level 3 things are explained from very basic terms and they build up your hand tool skills with exercises from my experience. Level 4 from when I purchased it doesn't have any of that. You would have to use other resources such as online or other books. you know what I mean?

[@kobaabok9999]

No need to apologize. Thanks for the reply. I think the right answer (for me) is to start lvl3. iI'm anxiousness to work on more advanced things, and don't want to waste time or money, but I don't want to get tripped up later because I was impatient. Hope you feel better soon. Cheers.

[@kenlilienthal3537]

Dean D K I am trying to find a cross slide for my Peerless 8mm lathe. it looks like you have the same lathe. Do you know where i can order one? Or a certain one to look for? one that will work? I'm a antique car mechanic that is trying to get in to watchmaking as a hobby. Any help would be appreciated. Thank you. Unfortunately the only chemicals that I know that will remove the dye will also remove the paint. Thanks for the info about the associate member of the BHI! I will have to do that! ~Ken

[@DeanDK]

Hi Ken, thanks for your comment. In regards to the cross slide, I use a Levin made cross-slide. Most other makers will most likely fit the lathe. The most important thing you will need is a "shoe" for the Peerless lathe. Which will fit into the ways of the bed underneath the cross slide, this ensures the cross slide so it is perpendicular to the bed every time. Depending on which brand you buy, you may also need to make minor adjustments to bolt section. I don't have much experience other than using the Levin cross slide on the Peerless. Or you could keep your eye out for Peerless or Marshall cross slides. Marshall slides appear much more often on ebay or watchoolsonline.com. I hope that helps you in the right direction.

[@kenlilienthal3537]

Thank you very much!

[@ryanchan3722]

Hey mate, not sure if youre still on here as im very late to the party but nonetheless your videos are inspiring and well of knowledge. Ive just got some questions for you about the BHI course as I'm picking up watch repairs from my father but am looking to begin getting certifications..and the BHI distance learning seems the most doable considering my situation. First question if, because we aren't based in the UK, i would assume that we would have to get our own tools, machine and material. Which costs money, so how much would you say youd have spent to finish the course? And what sort of equipment is required to complete the course? As i wouldnt want to enroll only to find i dont have the logistics to finish it.. For some exams, an examiner needs to be there, and I understand that i can find my own examiner, but what sort of qualification and where do you go to find these people that can be examiner? For those exams in Level 4, which you need to do to the UK, how does that happen? Is it a one day kind of thing? What the process like.. And lastly, starting from Level 3, do I choose from the start if i want to pursure watches or clocks? Because im getting the understanding from BHI that they teach more on the clock than watches for level 3.. I know its really lengthy and alot of questions but youre the only guy i know what I know has done the course.. cheers and keep inspiring!

[@tiberius4177]

HeyDean, Please tell me when your new upload is comming, I Cannot waight.

[@DeanDK]

Within 24 hours Herbert :)

[@6NBERLS]

I use acetone to remove Dyken Blue from everything. Not sure what it will do to your particular paint. Hang in there. Norm Berls Houston, TX

[@DeanDK]

+6NBERLS Thanks for the comment and support will try acetone :)

[@6NBERLS]

I've been thinking about your Dykem Blue problem. I'm sure acetone will take the ink off metal surfaces. I also get little splatters on my hands. I use Lava soap to remove it. This is just soap with some pumice in it. I think a tooth brush with a little Lava soap might remove the Dykem Blue from your painted surfaces. Or maybe just a paper towel moistened with water, a little Lava and light finger pressure would work. I also wonder if 1200 grit abrasive paper would work.

[@DeanDK]

Thanks for your thoughts. Sorry late reply I just figured out I don't get notified about replies to my replies. I will try the soap you mentioned as acetone unfortunately starts to react with the original paint.

[@andrew_owens7680]

As I say above. Watch that you don't breathe it. It's very bad for your health and we all want you to live to a ripe old age so that you can outdo Richard Mille.

[@ontheotherhand6490]

Are the exams written in a hall or like the one you did in the last episode with practical?

[@DeanDK]

If you are in the UK then I believe you can do then at BHI. If you have an approved examiner then you meet at a determined location. They will give you the exam, as the BHI will send them all the info

[@iuiz]

Hi Dean. Mistakes happen :), however they add character to your tools and you need to laugh it off. Nice video like always. How do you select the music, as it fits so nicely? Did you also pay for the feedback package from the BHI for two years? Also does the knowledge from the first courses help you buy a good lathe and mill? I have no experience with power tools and would just buy the wrong stuff :).

[@DeanDK]

+iuiz This is true! I think I am getting past it now. Cheers, I am always out trying to find music that I can use on youtube with copyright issues! Im glad you appreciate it! I just play what I like. I only paid for technician grade tutor feedback as the other one omis only theory feedback not on the work you make.. Umm they touch on some stuff with the lathe. Are you located somewhere where there is a physical shop to buy used watchmakers lathes?

[@iuiz]

I am just theory crafting at the moment. But maybe in a few years I will buy a lathe. I am currently living in a pedestrian area and my neighbors would kill me if I start machining ;).

[@DeanDK]

The BHI Technician grade have a demostration photos using a sherline lathe and a watchmakers lathe. You will find that these lathes are fairly quiet. Especially a watchmakers lathe.

[@MaxWattage]

If the lathe was painted with an acrylic spray paint then the Dykem has probably diffused into the paint surface, and is now chemically inseparable from it. In which case the only option is to strip down the lathe, remove all the old paint, and then re-paint it with something more resilient. (I'm quote surprised that Cowells didn't use a hard-wearing epoxy or enamel paint, but maybe yours has been re-sprayed?) See this comparison chart www.rustoleumibg.com/images/TechSpecsAndGuides/LIT_CPS_0406_9579550_Chemical-Resistance-Guide.pdf.pdf After looking into this (common) problem, I am currently thinking that a Chemical Resistant Epoxy-based paint would seem to be a good choice. i.e. In future, any solvents spills, oils, or Dykem spills would just wipe-off with a rag soaked in Acetone and no harm would be done to the underlying paintwork. I think that "Blue Sky RAL 5015" is a good match to the colour of the base (although a call to Cowells would confirm this). Here is one vendor that might be suitable www.reprotecuk.co.uk/products/reprotec-acidcheck (I am considering repainting my milling machine with this stuff.)

[@DeanDK]

Thanks Nicholas. When I do get around to re-spraying I will definitely use the paint you just recommended :). Let me know how you go with your repainting if you do go through with it

[@MaxWattage]

PS: I have updated the link in the above comment to "Reprotec Acidcheck" paint, as I have been advised by the manufacturer that is is a better choice for resistance to solvents and other common shop chemicals. Caveat: This is not a product endorsement, and other brands are available. Another choice would be the 9100 System DTM Epoxy Mastic from Rust-oleum www.rustoleum.com/product-catalog/industrial-brands/high-performance/epoxy-coatings/9100-system-dtm-epoxy-mastic?ls=9122402&lc=Marlin%20Blue (in RAL5012) is a glossy epoxy for metal with good resistance to petrol and similar solvents. Ref: reader.mediawiremobile.com/RustOleum/issues/106879/viewer?page=8

[@DeanDK]

Wow thank you so much Nicholas! You went into great detail :) you made my life easier when the time comes to repaint

[@DoRC]

I say leave it. Spotless tools just mean work isn't getting done.

[@DeanDK]

+Do R/C! Very true! Thanks man.

[@huxleypig69]

Oh man, I thought you actually borked it, kinked the spindle, or chewed off a bunch of teeth. You didn't ruin it!I can't afford a Cowells, I have to put up with my Unimat SL, I'd have your 'ruined' Cowells all fucking week.

[@DeanDK]

+huxleypig69 Bwhahaha thanks for the comment. I guess thats why it hurt so much. Went through a lot to get the Cowells. But I see your point of view.

[@joshuasdream3415]

Where did you buy your lathe? I am looking for one.

[@DeanDK]

Hey man, so bought mine from Cowells UK

[@zacharyhodge3568]

"The only thing that removes Dykem, is...well...Dykem." just try a spot of it on itself and wipe. they have dykem remover but I've never tried it.

[@zacharyhodge3568]

The dykem remover is actually made by Dykem and seriously... try just wiping it with itself immediately. I've spilled entire bottles on shop floors and machinery. If you can put it on you can pull it off.

[@DeanDK]

+Zachary Hodge Thanks Zachary I will try that. That is promising to hear.. thank you :)

[@neptuneforce8002]

Acetone and then repaint, nice videos btw.

[@holmes230536]

Dean, have you tried Varsol?

[@DeanDK]

No I haven't I might give it a go. Thanks!

[@holmes230536]

I'm pretty sure Varsol will not cause any damage to your paintwork, hope you are successful, good luck,

[@christophertaylor9230]

Why not strip off all the paint? Then it can either be all metal, or you can then paint it any colour you like. 😊

[@DeanDK]

+Christopher Taylor This well mostly likelt what will happen. I just feel like it's still new haha

[@seeitpickitbinit2510]

Horologists have no respect for lathe beds, my poor Cowells, haaahaaa🤣🤣😭😭😭♥️♥️♥️

[@marshalcraft]

that happens to tools(different from expensive toys), not ruined.

[@lacaver64]

ohh no wath is it inkt or other product poor lathe

[@1UpKroeker]

I would use wd40 and then iso.

[@russelldold4827]

While I sympathise with your dismay, my personal approach to the cosmetic spoiling of your pristine lathe is that it is and will always be a tool - however highly prized. If you had tried to sell it just before the marker spillage, you would have been unlikely to get much more than half the new price - simply because it is a used tool however carefully you have babied it. I know it hurts you to see your baby ruined, but that is my approach to cosmetic damage. I would react more strongly if circumstances had led to severe rusting (floods, corrosive chemical attack, etc) or "apprentice marks" such as gouges or chips. Having said that, if no satisfactory cleaning can be achieved, a rubbing down and repaint may restore some of your pride of ownership. As always, thank you for the effort you put into your videos - I enjoy them greatly.

[@DeanDK]

+Russell Dold Thanks Russell, yeah as time goes by it doesn't seem as a big of deal. I think its more the effort that was taken to acquire the lathe. Thanks for your support! Im glad you enjoy them

[@picklesnoutpenobscott3165]

99 percent Isopropyl alcohol? worth a try.

[@michaelbeswick14]

Try using hand sanitizer

[@Janne1Hirmu]

Horrible music

[@jamie-ox8sg]

engineer's blue yes dicum no