How to Replace Seiko Diashock, Incobloc & KiF Springs-Beginners Guide

[@bangy55]

Finally, a definitive, common sense, and valuable lesson on the watchmaker student's most significant fear, all in one place! Thanks, Alex. Well done as usual.

[@watchrepairtutorials]

Hey Chris, Thanks again my friend.

[@vimx5]

Hi Alex, I'm new to watchmaking as a retirement hobby (about six months in), and find your lessons so valuable. I can't thank you enough... Here's a little story about my first experience installing an Incabloc spring. Hope it makes you smile! ...that Incabloc spring though! Oh my, I was about to voluntarily launch the little devil it into orbit myself just to get even with it! On reassembly, It had sproinged out of its hinge mount. Luckily it didn't go too far. My tweezer work became profoundly ungraceful and the little rascal kept sproinging away as I tried to re-seat it. Last time it tried to escape, it lodged itself in the movement, jammed between the pallet fork and escape wheel. Grumble... Disassemble... Once recovered, the Incabloc spring got a week-long time-out for bad behaviour in my parts tray. During that time, I enjoyed some Scotch, finished a book I was reading, watched some watch assembly videos, and read everything I could find about Incabloc springs. I finally got the frisky little spring back where it belonged after we had a little time apart. Shortly thereafter, I had a running movement. Yay!

[@watchrepairtutorials]

I think we have all been there at one time or another. Enjoyed the story my friend.😊

[@ThePropbuster]

Thank for not only this one but all your comprehensive and well made videos, you have a subscriber here. I do have one question- If one were to say break or lose (asking for a friend), an Incabloc spring…is there a knack to insert a new one? This may be how the second went missing. Asking for a friend ofcourse. Thanks again brother, great stuff!

[@watchrepairtutorials]

It depends. Some blocks have an open slot where you can insert the springs, and some blocks have to be removed with a jeweling to insert the spring and then re-install the block. If the slider is open, then you can stick the open end of the spring into a small piece of rodico to hold it and then go in sideways to install it in the slot.

[@ThePropbuster]

Thank you for your reply and explanation, it helps very much. I will have a look and see the way it happens, it’s a cheap movement so not worried, would just like to learn correctly. Thanks again

[@So.Stephen]

Great tips on this very fiddly work. Thank you Alex for the great work you are doing. One of the little tricks I use is to remove shock springs submerged in cleaning fluid. Less likely to ping, and when they do, the fluid keeps it from joining the swiss space program.

[@watchrepairtutorials]

Hello Stephan, I am sure there will be some people using this tip. 🤘

[@vonkruel]

After setting up a good workspace and acquiring various tools, binging your videos finally gave me the last bit of confidence I needed to put everything into action. I spent some time with an ST3620 (Chinese 6498 clone) movement that had arrived in non-working order, and unfortunately in the course of practicing with it I lost _both_ (!!) Kif shock springs. So that movement is now for practice and spare parts, and that's fine. Today I spent some time with another Seagull 6498 clone (ST3621) which uses Incabloc style shock settings, and sadly I managed to lose one of the end stones from that as well! It wasn't launched at high velocity from my tweezers, but nonetheless it is _gone_ 😆. I was annoyed with myself, but I decided to try one of the end stones from the ST3620 (that had Kif springs), and it seemed to fit and work just fine on the ST3621's Incabloc setting. After lubricating the end stones, the escape wheel teeth (probably not enough yet), escape wheel pivots and other gear train pivots, the performance of the movement is completely transformed. It was "working" before but very hard to regulate because the amplitude would nose dive to about 160-170 deg. in the dial up position. Now I find the amplitude is about 240 deg. in dial up & down positions, and the rate is quite consistent between these two positions. It's nice to have a win after losing some parts! I think it's best to shrug off the early failures & just keep practicing. One rule I've made: I don't like to handle shock springs with tweezers _unless_ they are somehow secured. Often it seems best to reach for the Rodico. That's wonderful stuff. A few questions! 1. Would you expect the end stones from the ST3621 (with Kif settings) to work on the ST3620 (with Incabloc style settings) since these are both Seagull clones of the 6498? I'm glad the part seems to be interchangeable. 2. Is there a way I could stock up on shock setting springs and end stones of the movements I'm spending the most time with (currently Chinese 6497/6498 clones)? Determining exactly what parts I'm looking for seems like a bigger obstacle than actually sourcing them. There's also a set of 3 tools for Kif springs that I've added to my next order from Cousins. I'll do better with those in the future! 3. Is it normal for new movements to be provided without enough lubrication? Perhaps the thought is that if the movement is fully lubricated at the factory, then sits in a warehouse for a few years before being sold, it may actually need a full service (with cleaning) when finally deployed in a watch, whereas a dry movement would still be _clean_ after sitting & therefore the cleaning step of service could be skipped. My limited experience with Seagull movements suggests the manufacturer phones in the lubrication (if they do it at all), and I wonder how it is with Seikos like 4R3x/NH3x for example and Sellitas. 4. Is there a staking set you'd recommend? There's an Indian-made set on Cousins that's tempting, but since I'm quite committed to this now I wonder if I'd be better off in the long run by spending more. I've taken your sound advice about mainspring winders, and I've decided to just get a red (clockwise) Bergeon handle + only the the red #11 winder for the 6497/6498 clones initially. I think the #11 is probably usable for the 6497-2 and 6498-2 as well, though the #12 is called for on those movements. Anyway, soon I'll be trying out my ultrasonic cleaner. It's nothing fancy, but it's a 40 Khz unit and has a heating function (no degas). Thanks again for all the detailed instruction, so clearly presented. 👍

[@watchrepairtutorials]

1. I would not expect them to be interchangeable but try it and see how it does. 2. Parts for Chinese clones are usually not sold. An assortment may be useful but not always. 3. Yes completely. Either not enough or too much lubrication. New movements are machine lubricated. Depending on the quality of their manufacturing process, some movements are factory lubricated better than others. All movements that are sold by manufactures are sold with the end user with the condition that they are responsible for lubrication. 4. I would look for a good vintage set. I have no experience with Chinese staking sets. Having a good selection of stumps is very important. Thank you for your support my friend.

[@vonkruel]

@@watchrepairtutorials Thanks very much!

[@tomholloway7566]

Thanks again for another great and very instructional video Alex

[@watchrepairtutorials]

Thank you again Tom.

[@johnfrum2024]

A timely video! Having lost both diafix springs from the barrel and train bridge of my first scrap 7s26 practice movement, I will definitely be making this pegwood notch tool. Dealing with the shock jewels has been a challenge. Have another homemade tool to deal with diafix: a hairspring tapered pin stuck into pegwood. This is small enough to insert into the other side of the diafix setting. Oil placed on the pivot hole will then flow down the pin onto the cap jewel as the pin is inserted. Skills have been improving as I practice on the Diafix and Diashock. A few scrap bridges and mainplates to provide replacement springs and cap jewels if one is lost has been very useful.

[@watchrepairtutorials]

It gets easier the more you work on it. Thanks John

[@PMELKUS]

Thanks for this video. Today I was force to make one of them tools for the small Kif springs. On the larger ones I never have much problems using just a pair of tweezer to remover and install but that small one there was no joy. Took about 15 min to shape the ped wood and get the spring installed .

[@watchrepairtutorials]

That’s awesome to hear Paul but now you have it right?

[@illuminatii604]

Our Lord and Savior has blessed us with another great video. Thanks for making this. I requested this video a while ago.

[@watchrepairtutorials]

You are the man Luke. I got ya.

[@sergiohegner8844]

Thank you once again!!! Already waiting for the next video. Best from Rio-Brazil!

[@watchrepairtutorials]

Hi Sergio, You are the first checking in from Brazil brother. Thanks for being with use.

[@da___man]

Here (again) because I have to deal with one of those damn three notch KIF springs. They are next to impossible to reinstall without using a tool like you so wonderfully describe.

[@watchrepairtutorials]

This is even better. FOOLPROOF Method for Installing Seiko Diashock Springs kzbin.info/www/bejne/op2lopSjbreJd9k

[@chrishopkins5010]

Great tips and excellent information

[@watchrepairtutorials]

Thanks my friend. See you soon in another vid.

[@nemanjamijatovic5307]

There are many top watchmakers, but Alex is the best when it comes to teaching. Extremely useful. Thank you.

[@watchrepairtutorials]

Thank you my friend. We try

[@renebollengier1111]

I love your straight forward no nonsense instruction techniques. I have watched many… far to many watch repair videos, but you not only explain the how but the why. Thank you so much

[@watchrepairtutorials]

Thanks again Rene.

[@khronosbest9448]

Thanks for the tips on these shock springs Alex, they can be quite impossible at times. And the Polident for dials is absolutely genius !!! Thank you

[@watchrepairtutorials]

Thanks for the kind words brother. See you in the next one

[@ThedancerEvie96]

Thank you for all the tips... the last one with the seiko shock absorber worked amazing woth the stick.. I was having so much trouble getting the jewel spring back in and was ready to give up until i saw this video.. That was so good .

[@watchrepairtutorials]

Just remember that all this just takes practice practice and practice.

[@machinistmikethetinkerer4827]

I had to come back and watch this again. You make it look so easy! Just did a single slot KIF and that quite possibly could qualify as one of the most stressful things I've had to do! Had to stop, take a break and go back at it. Finally got it tho. Thanks bro.

[@watchrepairtutorials]

You can do it Mike.

[@paulschumacker9901]

Thank you again, Alex, for another great video! I learn from each of these - and much from this one as well. Your tutorials have transformed my watch repair skills, as I’ve been applying the things I’ve learned to each new challenge. And they’ve made a big difference in the quality of the watch performance, in terms of amplitude and regulation. Sometimes I have to re-clean the balance cap jewels a few times before I get the perfect circle of oil, but the performance in the end is worth all the effort. You are the master!

[@watchrepairtutorials]

Hey Paul. Did you get the message about the ad free upload to Patreon?

[@paulwilson3434]

“ perfect circle of oil “ eh !

[@paulwilson3434]

You shocked me ! 😊

[@paulwilson3434]

Haha. 2 Paul’s 👍🏼

[@uqox]

Awesome bonus tip. So brilliant. I just binge your videos. It's all brilliant and so motivating and encouraging for us novices. Thank you so much for your work and dedication.

[@watchrepairtutorials]

You are so welcome! i hope to see you again Uqob

[@fernandoAveledo]

Many thanks. Another master class explained methodically and with simple tips to follow to minimize the "jumping" hazard of working with shock springs...

[@watchrepairtutorials]

Put it in practice Fernando. It will make a difference.

[@fernandoAveledo]

@@watchrepairtutorials Sure I will...:)

[@mattygstax4584]

I wish I had this video last week. Haha Thank you though! I will now know

[@watchrepairtutorials]

There you go Marty.

[@johnfrum2024]

Your tip (from a previous video) about Hexane has been invaluable. Have been practicing removing the 7s26 balance from the cock and some simple hairspring manipulation (trying to correct terminal curve). Realized there was some contamination on the spring as some outer coils stuck to one another. A brief soak in Hexane solved that problem. Will be using that to clean balance springs and pallet forks.

[@watchrepairtutorials]

Yea that’s good stuff. Glad it helped.

[@kyproset]

Just the lesson I needed to build up a little confidence. Thank you Alex for the great lesson.

[@watchrepairtutorials]

Practice,practice, practice. You got this Kypros.

[@clive.r1414]

Thank you! I have yet to attempt removing any type of shock spring. This was an easy to watch and learn tutorial. I feel confident now attempting this task. Thanks again!

[@watchrepairtutorials]

Glad it was helpful! Just remember patience.

[@clive.r1414]

@Watch Repair Tutorials Yes Alex after many years building and altering houses and buildings I manage to keep calm and patient. My only regret is not taking this up many years ago. The time flys by (no pun intended) when I'm doing this. I have already made a peg wood needle holder. I intend to make another with some electrical shrink wrap to hold the needle in place. It may even make it a more comfortable to hold. All the best mate!

[@Supercruze]

Another informative vid Alex. I too struggle with the rectangular diashock springs used by Seiko on the 7S26 movements and others. Just a complete PIA. Nice to see how to make a simple install tool out of peg wood. Got to give that a try. One thing I have found useful on the vintage Seiko diashock kif style springs with single cutout is to note the spring has a flat surface side and a rounded surface side. I believe installing the spring with the rounded surface side facing up allows for an easier install of this style spring. Hope you plan to do a segment on diaafix setting and proper lubrication and installation of those springs. Always a challenge even with an automatic oiler.

[@watchrepairtutorials]

Thanks Supercruze, I will include it as a bonus tip coming up when I have one.

[@billsexton5532]

Thank you for your lesson. I'm just a hobbyist getting started, I chose a hamilton 770 for my first service. Dame what a mistake that was. My ignorance has cost me bucks, I had that hair spring looking like a bird nest. It is working now after a donor movement. Thank I will try a 747 I like hamilton. I've been getting a lot from you lessons and I know it takes a lot of time. So think you . Billy

[@watchrepairtutorials]

Good luck Billy. Hope to see you again.

[@rossjackson3670]

Alex. I did it. I DID IT. Woohoo! Sorry, did not mean to shout. Well actually I did. I removed a jewel from an incabloc in an ETA2789. Opened as per your system. Removed the jewel from the chatone, washed and oiled. Put it back together. Did it a second time. Gosh what a feeling. Thank you.

[@watchrepairtutorials]

You made my day brother. Wow that feels good.😊

[@MrDavidoff36]

Alex, eres un genio. Sometimes I have spent more than two hours looking for a spring, they seem to have a life of their own. I even lost it once and for all and on the steering wheel bridge I did have it but for the bottom part, since I couldn't get it and I was really angry, I had an idea...I know it's crazy but it worked...I put a piece of pressurized rodico . It works perfectly although my idea is to put a spring in it when I can find one. I will put your teachings into practice. Thanks Alex.

[@watchrepairtutorials]

Thank you Mr David. Good luck to you.

[@larsf.4756]

Ha, just lost the jewel of a Seiko Diashock, my practice movement, trying to reinstall the clamp without that tool with the cutout. In retrospect it makes sense that you need something like that. Thanks for your series that is showing the "less than optimal" path, also.

[@watchrepairtutorials]

You can do it!

[@rossjackson3670]

Alex. Just to keep you updated. I know I'm a bore, but I am getting a good sense of achievement. Just fitted my first KIF Single Cut Out spring. No 'ping'. Won't inform on the next ones. As you said. Practice, practice, and more practice." The things you do on a Sunday", my bride has just said to me. Ah well.

[@watchrepairtutorials]

Good job Russ. Keep ‘em coming. I’m proud of you.

[@gooboy911]

Once again great video, Alex. Thank you for taking the time to put all this together for us. Please keep it up. Looking forward to the next video =)

[@watchrepairtutorials]

Thanks my friend

[@markwhite1283]

Hi Alex thank you for your informative video I have a helpful tip for anyone who misplaces a cap jewel. Ruby Jewels fluoresce under UV light. I have a small UV torch which I got from a hardware store. If a capstone goes astray I turn down the lights and use the UV to track it down.

[@watchrepairtutorials]

Not only is that an awesome tip, but I’m sure many people can use that. I’ve never tried it, but I did just order a UV flashlight and I’m gonna test it out and if it works as good as you I might just use it in a one day.

[@awdturbopowah773]

As usual, another fantastic tutorial here. These shock springs can really turn a simple job into a total pain in the ass, and like with many things, it's due to the tools being used. These homemade shock spring tools will make the job much easier, thank you so much for sharing them!

[@watchrepairtutorials]

You got it brother. Try them out. They make a difference.

[@johnvaluk1401]

Thank you Alex for another great video. And tricks on re installing an Incobloc spring that pops out. Took me about an hour to re install one that popped out.

[@watchrepairtutorials]

You got it John. See you in the next one

[@darrenfessey9544]

Just used your tip for fashioning peg wood to install a kif spring - worked a treat 🙌… great videos. Have learnt a lot, especially from the bonus tips. 👍

[@watchrepairtutorials]

I have a few more where that came from

[@rossjackson3670]

Abso flipping brilliant. Guess what I have been trying to do all last week. You are a jewel.

[@watchrepairtutorials]

LoL brother. Did you get it figured out ?

[@rossjackson3670]

@@watchrepairtutorials Not yet. But will be able to on the next service now I have definitive help and advice. Thank you

[@stevehorn3406]

Thanks for the informative video. A few years ago I bought a pack of five movements on ebay, NOS in a little tray. They were cal. FE 233-60 handwind, never been used, but very old and the lubricants were all gummed up. I bought them to practice on, and for that they served the purpose. They had those 3 notch KIF chatons. After much struggling, I finally had the idea of drilling the end of a pegwood or toothpick and using it to depress and rotate all 3 tabs into their notches at the same time. It worked but I always wondered what a pro would do. Nice to see that I wasn't so far off with my solution after all. Keep up the great work Alex.

[@watchrepairtutorials]

You were one the right track Steve. See you in the next one

[@JonTheComputerDoctor]

Thank you Alex, that is the best explanation I have ever see so keep the videos coming please.

[@watchrepairtutorials]

Thanks John, I am working on a vid about the diafix setting as well. It seems to be another pain point for a lot of people

[@d3xmeister]

Beautiful Seiko SNZH, classic never goes out of style

[@watchrepairtutorials]

You have a good eye my friend. 😉

[@thegrumpymuso5418]

Excellent tutorial Alex. I've read about using pegwood tools but to see it in action makes all of the difference. I am busy servicing an AS 1686 which doesn't have the standard Incabloc and is more similar to the Diashock but is probably a Kienzle three legged spring. The pegwood tool will be essential to refit this as growing an extra arm is not an option.

[@watchrepairtutorials]

Sometimes the simple tools are the most valuable. Thanks TGM

[@haping1]

Thanks Alex, just made my kif tool for an ETA 2824-2 and it worked perfect.👍

[@watchrepairtutorials]

That’s what I love to here. Thanks for sharing that brother.🤗

[@cpgdallas]

Great tips here!I am just getting into watchmaking and these tips and instructions are invaluable. I was beginning to think I was going to have to buy a tool(s) for every one-off need.

[@watchrepairtutorials]

I like tools that have multiple functions, and I like to make them whenever possible.

[@fattern_]

Thank you for another great video.

[@watchrepairtutorials]

Fattern, thank you brother.

[@bolgerguide]

ive been waiting for this one alex. Great video!

[@watchrepairtutorials]

Nice. I hope it helps. Thanks brother. I do appreciate it.

[@bolgerguide]

@@watchrepairtutorials It always helps. Your old tip about rodico on the end of a toothpick was the best solution for reinstalling a dislocated incabloc spring. A good tip for all is to buy some spare incabloc and u shaped click springs. They are cheap compared to the stress of searching for the lost spring.😄

[@mevagisseymedic]

Thank you, I am new to this and was panicking about the Seiko Diashok

[@watchrepairtutorials]

Glad I could help Barry. It just takes some practice.

[@weivreca]

Thanks Akex! Great video. I wish I saw this before I lost my incabloc spring 😞

[@watchrepairtutorials]

Timing is everything David. Thanks buddy

[@frankcabrera734]

this information is worth a lot of money! thank you for sharing .

[@watchrepairtutorials]

Glad you think so Frank

[@boydsargeant7496]

More fantastic content Alex! I spent all of yesterday trying to adjust beat error for the first time. I didn’t suceed🙁I even bent a pivot and a spring😒. I’ve got it Mack to about where I started! Can you do a video on this? The most difficult part I found was not knowing how far to turn the sprint stud. What ever I did didn’t equate to the change on the timer graph. Also I took the balance apart, I didn’t trust doing it with the balance complete. Anything you can do to help to show me would be fantastic! Ta.

[@watchrepairtutorials]

I will be addressing this in the regulation series I am doing right now

[@toothpik00]

Hi Alex. New watchmaking hobbyist here. Watching you make the pegwood tool, I had a thought: Could you just use a suitably sized watch hand pressing tool to manipulate the jewel setting spring? Also, instead of a sewing needle, could an oiler be used or are they too flexible? My oilers are actually in the mail at the moment, so I haven't even handled one yet. Thanks for all the great videos. You are very good at explaining things clearly and concisely. Cheers! - Ben

[@watchrepairtutorials]

Hi Ben, The peg wood forms to the jewel better and will grip it. The watch band press tools have a hard plastic so it’s not going to as effective. Sewing needles not flex like an oiler which might launch a spring into the unknown.

[@toothpik00]

@@watchrepairtutorials sweet I thought both these things might have been the case. Thanks for clarifying 🍻

[@littleviking488]

Thanks for another great lesson Alex!

[@watchrepairtutorials]

As always thank you for being here little Viking 🙂

[@walther9161]

Good stuff! I’ve luck using a very pointy peg to move and position springs… maybe it’s more forgiving than metal.. either way I need to make those peg wood tools!! Thank you for posting!

[@watchrepairtutorials]

Thanks for checking in Walther

[@ΓιώργοςΚουτσαντώνης-χ3ο]

Οne of the best advanced lessons. Τhank you very much dear.

[@watchrepairtutorials]

Thanks for checking in my friend.

[@a.aguilar]

Great video as always Alex! I'm a Seiko guy so I've only deal with Diashocks, both 3 pins and the newest 2 pins. I've never had a problem with them but I find the newest much more difficult to put back in place. What I still don't dare to remove are the Diafix. Those are too small and not having an automatic oiler I wouldn't be able to properly oil them. I just try to oil them thru the jewel hole. I know it's not a good idea, but I don't feel comfortable handling them.

[@watchrepairtutorials]

Maybe I should at that as a tip in a video.

[@a.aguilar]

@@watchrepairtutorials Yes please, that would be great. I know how to take them apart and reinstall them, I've done it a couple of times just to try it, but they are too tiny to oil the capstone as we do with diashocks, I think they need an auto oiler to be oiled once they are in place. Also I'm scared to lose them while cleaning!

[@fernandoAveledo]

Many thanks for taking the time to show us the way to be better watchmakers! I hope you may find interesting to make a video explaining how to install back the incabloc spring. Do you take the complete incabloc systems out, both lower and upper, to reinstall the springs? Thanks

[@watchrepairtutorials]

If you’re talking about the sprain coming out of the setting, I showed that as a bonus tip at the end of the video.

[@fernandoAveledo]

@@watchrepairtutorials It is related to Omega 751 on the dial side. Installing back the incabloc spring is a nightmare. I read that the complete lower setting should be taken out the main plate and if that's the only way there are (for me) two very difficult taks rather than one...

[@watchrepairtutorials]

@@fernandoAveledo Oh I see. Its really hard to say without seeing it. Those can be a bugger.

[@tundeogida9740]

Very valuable lesson. Thanks a million.

[@watchrepairtutorials]

You're very welcome!

[@johnleonard3806]

Another good video. Now I have even more confidence to crack my first movement. A single jewel Endura Time A7 circa 1976 with an inoperable day wheel and tight main spring. It will only take 1 or two rotations of the crown. I can't see a stem release pin. Stem removal trouble shooting video please. I have another watch that the crown is loose on the stem.

[@watchrepairtutorials]

Good Luck John. Let me know how it turns out.

[@kswaminathan5439]

Very well explained, Sir. I would like to know if we can get spare incabloc shock springs if the one in the watch is damaged. Then how to fix the shock spring itself?

[@watchrepairtutorials]

Yes replacement springs are available from part suppliers. The spring itself cannot be fixed to new condition. Replacement would be better

[@U_Colfett87]

This video is pure gold

[@watchrepairtutorials]

Love it. Thanks man

[@Tony_Rocklake]

Hi thanks again for the informative video! I'm learning a lot. I have a Seiko watch that has the diashock spring and since the caseback has the window I can see it. The spring is not installed perfecty center over the cap jewel and this is from the factory. The watch is 1yr old. Can this affect how the jewels are seated in the block since the spring is applying pressure more to just one side on the jewel or can it cause the cap jewel to sit crooked? One thing I know I can't wait to build up more knowledge and start investing in tools to start this hobby. I'm planning to start servicing watches on the side eventually. -Tony

[@watchrepairtutorials]

It certainly could cause the endstone to not sit flat in the setting. You can check this on the timegrapher by comparing the amplitude of the horizontal positions. If they are way different it could be the cause.

[@watchrepairtutorials]

😉Thank you to my Patrons. As an added benefit all new videos will be available on Patreon, ad free. Enjoy and thanks again. Aaron Levine bill doog Chris Fish. Gregory Corna Heath Payne John Boyarsky Khronosbest Marcel Gustafson Mike G Mike Maltese Paul Schumacker Ray Everett Steve Stroschein Timothy Chaney Vincent Tiger

[@marktime48]

Your videos have been absolutely awesome and a great alternative to traditional learning materials. Thank you for sharing your tips and experience with us. Also, on the topic of shock springs, do you have any tips for reinstalling a dislodged Incabloc spring (one that has come out of the jewel hinge)?

[@watchrepairtutorials]

I do. In the video I did on lubrication of the balance and pallet stones I show how I replace the spring if it comes out. Thanks Mark

[@marktime48]

@@watchrepairtutorials Awesome! I missed that and very much appreciate you helping me find it. Thanks!

[@JamesCatanzaro]

Hi Alex, here's a question about procedure when working on shock springs based on my experience. I'm not brand new to this but only been doing it for three years. The first time I worked on a Novidiac spring I had no problem removing and replacing the lower balance jewel and spring. Then I flipped the movement over and replaced the balance and quickly launched the top jewel spring into outer space. I immediately realized what I was doing wrong; I was trying to remove the spring when it was "loaded" under tension. Thereafter, I remove the balance then remove the lower spring and jewels and set them aside, I replace the balance, clean and replace the top jewels, again remove the balance and then replace the cleaned lower jewels and spring. Then finally replace the balance again. This sounds like a lot of double work but it is much easier to work on springs when they are not under tension. I think this would apply to any type of shock system, even the lyre type Incabloc which I think would be less likely to jump the jewel block if not under tension. I never see the "pros" do this in any video, the balance is always swinging when they do the upper jewel. Do you agree with this? Is there any drawback from doing this? Sure, the jewel hole aligns better if the balance is in place but I would think that if it isn't the jewel would self align in the jewel block...any comment?

[@watchrepairtutorials]

Hi James, You make some solid points. First, as far as procedure goes, you are absolutely correct , the safest way to work on any shock spring is when the balance pivots are not pushing up on it. I think most people just do what they are comfortable with. I can tell you that for some systems like the Diashock, and certain KIF springs I always do it with the balance stopped but Still with the BC installed on the movement. But your Point is solid, especially for really young watchmakers.

[@JamesCatanzaro]

@@watchrepairtutorials Thank you for the reply, I very much appreciate it. It can be frustrating learning from what people do on videos because who knows how many details they skip and what gets edited out. I try to apply my own engineering common sense when I can but sometimes you just have to know what steps to take in what sequence...J.

[@osobad1127]

Great Video! My only question is what do you use as a amateur watchmaker to see the jewel springs? I am not sure if I want to invest in a $700 microscope. Are there any alternatives you recommended?

[@watchrepairtutorials]

Well you don’t need the camera and if you look around there are used microscopes that can be purchased on eBay less than 400. The digital microscope I showed is available for less than 100. Then of course you can step up to a 10x or 15x loupe but I find working an inch away from the movement too hard but this is what many people do.

[@perrybucsdad]

That is a fantastic trick for the Diashock, but I want to know how many takes did it take for you to get the two ends started? I struggled for over an hour and could not do it with the pegwood tool. I finally just used my tweezers to do it, not that was any easier... I just got lucky that one end went in and the other I was able to wiggle in as well... I want to learn these diashock springs as I don't know how to oil the balance wheel any other way than to take both springs out. Someone mentioned that you can clean these (have to take them out), but oil them with the stones and springs in place. That sounds fine for the bottom one, but the one where the balance staff is attached to the hairspring, I can't see how you would do this without messing up the hairspring. I know I need an automatic oilier to do this, but I would still think the oilier needle would touch one of the hairsprings. Maybe tomorrow I will try this again and oil the end stone (I have yet to be able to get the other half on it nicely and I always have a hard time trying to find the smooth side vs the curved side.... need to get a microscope 😀)

[@watchrepairtutorials]

I have very good luck wit these tools. Just make sure the balance isn't moving when you do this. Remember everything takes practice. You are not going to nail it the first time and your tweezer method will result in lost springs. Just saying. Using automatic oilers, usually results in over lubrication with leads to dry pivots and the end of good timekeeping. These things are are often recommended by the ones who have not taken the time to learn how to do it properly. John, there are ton's of short cuts and easier way's to do things. Most often they don't produce good results.

[@gerryforand1617]

Enjoyed the video. Quick question for you. Can the spring itself be replaced on an incobloc? I have a 2824-2 mainplate that has only a single spring end. The other one is broken off. I have seen replacement springs on Cousins but can't find anywhere about replacing them. In essence the mainplate is pretty much useless in that the jewel will not stay in place correctly with only one arm holding it in. Thanks in advance.

[@watchrepairtutorials]

Yes, Incobloc springs are easily replaced. I showed how to put it in as a bonus tip and either that video or the ones I did previously on replacing shocks Springs.

[@watchrepairtutorials]

✨✨ Get Your Copy of my eBook, The Secrets for Adjusting Watch Rates ✨✨ ➡➡PDF DOWNLOAD watchrepairtutorials.com⬅⬅ ➡➡Available on Kindle & Soft Cover @ geni.us/4x8C (Amazon)⬅⬅

[@itzhaccroitoru4082]

Hi Alex,Clining the Dial in ultrasaund or alcohol is not good ?

[@watchrepairtutorials]

Never

[@juanrafaeltosado1812]

GREAT LESSON!!! THANKS. ( WILL YOU PLEASE MAKE A COMPLETE , TUTORIAL ' HOW TO SERVICE THE COMPLETE BALANCE WHEEL, & HOW TO FIX THEM ' MY NH35 DOESN'T COME ALIVE BUT I DON'T SEE ANY DAMAGE ON IT ; SUCH BEND, OR KINK . 🙏 THANKS A LOT, ( YOUR VIDEOS ARE VERY CLEAR, AND EASY TO UNDERSTAND )👍.

[@watchrepairtutorials]

Hey Juan, Take the pallet fork out and put the balance wheel in. Puff on it with a blower and see how well it rotates. It should spin freely for about 20 seconds before stopping.

[@frankcabrera734]

can you tell us a little back story? how long you have you been working on time pieces?

[@watchrepairtutorials]

I retired last year after working 35 years as an independent watchmaker.

[@treyreed1762]

nothing beats a good analoge caliper

[@watchrepairtutorials]

I agree but decent quality digitals can be just as accurate.

[@RestorationWatch]

Hi Alex, so the three piece KIF spring tool set is no good to use? I've been looking at a set but don't want to buy them if they are all show and no action, so to speak, Thanks, Steph (your apprentice!).

[@watchrepairtutorials]

I never liked them but if they are cheap enough get them. They may work you and if you don’t like them and can always resell them.

[@tommusikauswahl1066]

Takes a couple of minutes to meassure it and make that tool - and the 3 edged KIF is installed at 1st Attempt :) And best Thing: All i needed was at Hand, so no waiting till new Tools from China would arrive next month or so.

[@watchrepairtutorials]

Man that’s great to hear. I love homemade tools. Nice job.

[@AtomicJerk84]

6:30 thanks for showing this, but I have a question/problem. My incabloc spring fell out of the balance bridge, how, hell if I know, but I cannot for the life of me get it back in the slot. Do you have any videos or tips for getting the spring back in the slot?

[@watchrepairtutorials]

At 18:09 kzbin.info/www/bejne/r5W2oISijdeSnbcsi=h4-B9B0odBvQFH2-

[@AtomicJerk84]

@@watchrepairtutorials that’s exactly what happened to me, was the movement in your video an ETA 6497? Only I used tweezers to try to put the spring back and broke the spring. Thanks for showing replacement with Rodico, this is very helpful.

[@watchrepairtutorials]

@@AtomicJerk84 👍

[@andresgutierrez1514]

Gracias por compartir amigo. Un saludo desde España.

[@watchrepairtutorials]

de nada. Tengo una pregunta para ti. ¿Puedes entender lo que estoy diciendo o lo traduces de alguna manera?

[@andresgutierrez1514]

@@watchrepairtutorials Utilizo los subtitulo en Español para poder entenderte Por eso es interesante para mi, que hables algo despacio para que pueda ser traducido y subtitulado, pero no importa mucho, pues veo el video varias veces. Estoy muy agradecido que compartas tus conocimientos con nosotros, en mi caso, soy aficionado a la relojería mi profesión es pescador. Un saludo Alex.

[@watchrepairtutorials]

@@andresgutierrez1514 una pregunta más por favor. ¿Hay muchos otros canales de tutoriales de reparación de relojes en KZbin?

[@andresgutierrez1514]

@@watchrepairtutorials Yo particularmente sigo a dos más tutoriales de reparación de relojes. Uno de Argentina (Sur América) y otro de Holanda (Europa). Aunque también sigo alguno casualmente de restauración y decoración de movimientos de relojes. si tie es interés te puedo dar los nombres.

[@andresgutierrez1514]

kzbin.info

[@tropicalspeed]

Polident - Brilliant!

[@watchrepairtutorials]

There you go Ray. The bonus is that the watch will small minty fresh. 😀

[@tropicalspeed]

@@watchrepairtutorials Ha,ha,ha!

[@shenlun]

Thanks

[@paulwilson3434]

Thank you !

[@watchrepairtutorials]

You're welcome!

[@machinistmikethetinkerer4827]

So I had to share a tip to your other viewers-I was making another 3 notch pegwood KIF tool but I don't have the Horotec kit. I do however have Dremel countersink bits that work the same and are only 5 bucks a piece.

[@watchrepairtutorials]

That is a great tip. Thanks for sharing that one.

[@gregcapella5941]

THANKS,,,,Good video

[@watchrepairtutorials]

Hey Greg, You got it man

[@Mr986Willis]

How do I replace a broken incablock spring?

[@watchrepairtutorials]

Bonus tip at 18 minutes in. kzbin.info/www/bejne/r5W2oISijdeSnbcsi=sh7MDs1vAWFM_xQ_

[@billyg736]

My wife is after your blood Alex, i stole one of her machine needles lol. simple but effective cheers...

[@watchrepairtutorials]

LOL. You are KILLING me😆

[@johnbyrne9900]

I used your solution for the Seiko DiaShock spring and it work great. Had no idea how to do this prior. I also found this video that does something similar so I tried it as well with success. kzbin.info/www/bejne/Zpe2pYCneL1sfrs I made my tool by taking a round toothpick and measured down the length until it was 1.8mm in diameter which I measured as the inner diameter of the spring assembly where the jewels sits. I cut it at this point and used a nail file to smooth the end so it was flat. Then I used an Xacto knife to hollow out the inner diameter of the toothpick to 1.2mm (the diameter of the jewel) by twirling the knife around the center of the end. Sanded the end of the toothpick with a nail file and put a little bevel on it. From there, I did what the KZbin video showed. Both methods work. The DiaShock is a real bear! Thanks for all your videos!

[@giorgiogrlj]

After this I hope there will not be flying springs and stones any more. :)

[@watchrepairtutorials]

Hey Giorgio, Patience and concentration is key

[@giorgiogrlj]

@@watchrepairtutorials I learned in a harder way. :) Thank you, thank you very much for this useful video.

[@igedeputra8625]

Update cleaner watch

[@HeliBenj]

Brest vidéo again Alex. Diafix are scary. Tackled my first four on a alors Marvel and managed to not loose anything, but that’s the kind of stuff that separates children from men 😄

[@watchrepairtutorials]

You got it Ben. Patience and focus with a dash of know how is all it takes.

[@treyreed1762]

you working under a microscope or loupe?i find both hard,maybe i need better equipment

[@watchrepairtutorials]

Oh man, I work under a microscope 95% of the time.

[@nunyabusiness9056]

Don't even try to learn to set the bridge train diashocks in seikos with tweezers. I swear it's f'ing impossible. I see people do it and i have no idea how they do it. i see them get the end of their tweezers in the tiny microscopic rim inbetween the cap jewl and the retaining ring of the spring while simultaneously having their tweezers go through the very corner of the the spring. Even with dumont number 3 and 5's sharpened to the finest needle point imaginable the points still cannot get in that space without pushing aside the cap jewel and trying to fold down the other side of the spring just shoots the jewel out the side. I finally broke down and fashioned a tool out of a thin plastic knitting needle so it doesnt' shed or deform and i just do it that way. While it's impressive af skill to be able to set those with tweezers i can't for the life of me even conceive of how people actually do it. EDIT: Wow that diashock tool is brilliant. I've only seen people use the one you used for the 3 pointed spring which is what i use. I'm making one of those tonight. That is brilliant.

[@watchrepairtutorials]

Thanks brother, give it a try