I just wanted to let you know I've just finished buying everything I need to get into this hobby because of you. The timing of a new release was just the perfect cherry on top. Thank you! :)
Great choice, I think I'll end up doing the same as soon as I've got some freetime; I've already have a "patient" it's a Waltham 8 days clock from the 40's but it's pretty much a big pocket watch with a quite strange setting crown, and it comes from an 1948 RCA transmission electron microscope which became mine after a lab couldn't keep it anymore and it was destined to landfill fortunately i saved it, it would've been a shame to lose that marvel of vacum tube electronics
That is lucky for you. Me however my grandfather was a watchmaker but he died in 1960 when I was only five so all of his tools and supplies are gone. Where and to when I'll never know.
This was awesome to see and makes me think about when I had my Great-grandfather's pocket watch fully serviced a few years ago. It was in rough shape and not working and it ended up costing more than the value of the watch itself, but it was worth it to know it might keep running for another 70 years. My Grandmother gave it to him as a gift when she got her first paycheck after turning 18 and he kept it in his front pocket until the day he died. It had the same level of wear and tear as this watch and I would have never considered getting it replated and covering up that history, just like you were saying. Thanks again for sharing this!
Mine is a similar story, as two years ago I had my grandfather's pocket watch serviced for more than its monetary value; although of course it has lots of sentimental value to me.
As an engineer, I must say that was very satisfying to watch. I don't think my hands are steady enough to attempt anything like this. Thank you.... Poetry in motion !!!
@tradde11 Rest them on the table. My shaky hands are annoying for paintibg model ships so I rest them on the table, sometimes using the second hand to stabilize the first.
While sorting some stuff we found an old Pocket Watch. After asking my grandmother(s) about it we learned it actually belonged to their father and - as far as I remember - it was a gift to their wedding. It isn't a special watch and it actually does run, but stops after a few minutes. I didn't want a full restoration (the dail is in a bad shape), but I'd love to get it running - just so it can be used as a watch. My local Watchmaker checked it and said its to "broken" and turned down the job. Somehow I'm not convinced since the shop tried to sell me a new pocket watch - they didn't understand that I didn't want ANY Pocket Watch, I wanted this one. Now its safetly stored and I want to find some Pocket Watch Maker to check it. Thanks Marshall for the video, this was amazing to watch.
You'll want to look for someone who specializes in restoring vintage watches. There's definitely some people in America doing it but I think there's a much larger market in Europe for this sort of thing (though I would be weary of shipping a watch like that overseas). Maybe try asking around on the /r/watches subreddit and see if they can recommend a good restorer.
@@KillerWhale806 Thanks, I'm from germany so I hope I can find someone here in the area that is specialized in old vintage watches. The subreddit is worth a try, if someone there can point me to the correct watchmaker that would be awesome.
This is an exceptional video, I have my grandfathers watch and he was a Roadmaster on the Canadian Pacific Railroad for 35 yrs. It is an Elgin Railroad watch he got from a man during the depression.
The fact that they were able to manufacture precisely machined but irregularly shaped tiny things like the pallet fork with 19th century technology amazes me even more than tiny screws.
I have an 1882 Elgin in a Duebler (sp?) case. The front cover has an engraving of an elk. The back has two leaves. One opens to hold a photo, the second one opens to reveal the movement. It is a lever set watch and keeps beautiful time. I wear it whenever I am wearing bib overalls as they have a bib pocket and button hole for this reason.
This is amazing- I bought a couple of early 1900s elgin pocket watches movements that are in remarkable shape. I bought the pocket wat movements because of your advice on your videos, and then I learned about how there are different sized pocket watches, and the ones I bought were size 0 LOL. So they aren't alexactly larger and easier to work on, but they are unique and I love them and have enjoyed troubleshooting the issues like a broken pallet fork jewel! Thanks for making the amazing videos and for getting me into a new hobby and obsession!
SAME! The first pocket watch I tried wasn't much larger than my wristwatch but it's still a blast. Marshall's videos have gotten me through a lot of issues with this new-found hobby.
If I could make one mod it would be a exabition caseback, especially since the original looks kinda rough anyway. Really is a well loved watch either way though with so much history worn into it
I think the recent acquisition ClickSpring has made is capable of doing Snailing (of which there's a special breed of machine just for that). Worth checking out his video on it and what it can do.
Another job well done!! I Wanted to tell you about my 1945 Bulova, was my great uncle's watch. He told me he received it Christmas day 1945. He passed in 1994 4 months after his 100 birthday. Ive had it since then. Its been basically my daily watch since. Looks nearly new except for some slight patina on the face. 10 k gold filled still sparkling. Original metallic band also. In the 28 years I've had it, no repairs, I have it serviced every 5 years. 77 years old, it gains about 3 minutes every 6 days. BULOVA can be very proud of this old work horse!!
You've always said that reinstalling a balance and having it immediately start ticking again is the most satisfying feeling in watchmaking. Having now experienced that feeling for myself, I absolutely agree. Best feeling ever. 10/10, would recommend.
After watching here I opened my pocket watch for the first time gave the top jewel of the balance wheel a light cleaning with a tooth pick and gave the wheel a tap, my heart leapt as the balance came to life. I thought it was broken. Its still filthy inside and in need of cleaning but that feeling when it came to life was priceless.
@@ComfortRoller May i ask what actually qualifies as dirty, im new around here and well, lets suppose the watch was sat inside a drawer for well over 20 years with no service, what sort of filthiness should i expect to find?
I just pulled my great-grandfathers pocket watch out of my safe and found out more about it. It's a Hamilton 912 made in 1933. It's Nickel with a gold chain and a knife fob. Still works. Had this watch for a few decades after my grandmother gave it to me but never thought much about it until I started watching your videos. It's not railroad quality nor is it very valuable, which isn't a big deal to me. Makes me want to start wearing waistcoats so I can wear it all the time. Thank you!
I ran into this channel. Never thought about watching someone refurbish watches! But, this is my 3rd in a row. It's so satisfying because it's a very slow, tedious process - yet it's calming to watch someone who has patience because I have absolutely n patience for tedious details. Wish I did. But, how satisfying. You narrarate and edit your videos perfectly. Thank you!
I really like that you’re using this hobby to better yourself and that the art of watch repair has helped you gain more insight into your own personal traits. Always enjoy these therapeutic sessions.
I am fascinated by how carefully he handles the parts and arranges them on the bench. Watching his videos at the end of my working day is somehow soothing and mesmerizing. I almost don't care about the watch he's repairing...
Oh my god. Stumbling upon your video completely randomly just made me took a trip to memory lane. A good childhood memory. My uncle owned a wristwatch shop and my dad would often take me and my mom when I get a brand new watch or have it repaired. While they talked, I was so curious and intent on watching my uncle work on it. I see his tools and him working on the watch. It truly fascinated me. When he noticed me watching, he told me some stuff but I was too young to understand it lol. My dad was an auto mechanic while his brother for wrist watches. I dearly miss them both. Imma go cry a bit. Q_Q
I have no reasonably idea of why this came up in my youtube feed but i absolutly love it! the precision on this craft is simply amazing, and the thought that they made this kind of complex mechanical engineering with the small tolerances needed in 1920 is beyond me;D truly amazing content! will without a doubt be following here for sure.
I grew up and live in Elgin Illinois very close to where the old watch factory used to be. Thanks for cleaning and showing off one of our watches! Morbid fun fact-Clyde of Bonnie and Clyde had an Elgin Pocket Watch on him when he was killed lol
Watching your show always reminds of spending hours when I was a kid watching my Granddad showing me how to take watches apart to repair/clean them. Unfortunately he could never put them back together again, so we ended up with a cigar box half full of various bits from different watches by the end. Happy memories.
I inherited a few of my grand father's watches. I remember him wearing them, some for work in the fields and one for Sunday church. He was born in 1886, and the watches were not much younger than him.
I've been watching your videos sporadically over the course of the last year and a half. I'm actually from Chicago, Illinois. But i grew up in Elgin, Illinois. Having the watch factory and the planetarium there for time keeping was kind of a throwaway. But knowing the history the city had in time keeping and manufacturing is completely insane. Crazy how a city with such heritage can fade away
Just bought a pretty vintage (80-90s) watch while thrifting and thanks to ur vids I felt confident enough to pop off the back and I’ve ordered a replacement battery, it’s in such great quality so I think it’ll be able to run after I replace the battery :D
The Goodwill and other thrift stores are chock full of discarded quartz watches. They have no dollar value, and can hardly even be given away in today's smartphone and smartwatch culture, but if the style and condition meets with the seeker's approval they can be worth their small price plus the cost of a battery. Just remember that most of them can be replaced with brand new similar models - including ten year battery - for $9.95 to $39.95 at discount big box stores. If changing batteries is desired, I suggest looking at the case back to find the battery number, then ordering six or ten of them from Amazon for less than the the price of one at a retail store. They also sell several batteries of six or seven different types all on one card, very cheap. Those old case backs are friction fit, and have one small slightly raised spot where they are supposed to be levered free by a semi-sharp tool. Cover the back with a couple of layers of painters tape to prevent scratches - I guarantee for beginners the tool will slip and scratch the back if not protected. Don't use a knife - the blade is too sharp and the metal too brittle.
@@ammoalamo6485 I bought a guess chrono from ebay for about $10. It needed a new battery. I had taken an Omega pocket watch, cased in the USA by Elgin, in rolled gold, to a Horologist. He replaced the spring and serviced the watch. I asked him if he could get the pressed back off the guess watch. No problem he said, I will use a guillotine. Well he tried but could not get it off. I had tried other street vendors who also could not open it. So I took the watch home, got a thin screwdriver, and a light hammer, and tapped away. Its was the hardest back I had ever removed. I put the new battery in and put the watch on the cover press. There was no way it would go back on. I put some small cuts in the rim, but retaining its seal edge, and press fitted it, but it would not fully seat. I got a cloth and the light hammer and gave it a sharp tap. It seated. If a Horologist could not get it open, this old motor mechanic managed it.
Hi Marshall! I've listened to hundreds of episodes of LR back when I was into competitive Magic, and probably watched just as many events where you were in the booth. I found these videos' of yours by happenstance a few days ago, and have really enjoyed them as someone who knows next to nothing about watches. It's been a real blast from the past hearing your commentary style over this content, and I've loved every minute of it. I hope you get to keep doing what you love like this going forward!
Just want to say thank you, I was like that voice is insanely familiar and I couldn’t put it together. But the endless amount of PT GP and CFB content I’ve listened to.
This is a beautiful watch. To the point where this video enraptured me start to finish. I’m jealous of your first patron but glad he has such a fine device for you to service. I’m happy this is my first introduction to your channel as a clueless unsuspecting layman.
I came here from limited resources. I’m a newbie watch guy but mostly checked out the channel due to me loving your mtg content. I say this not condescendingly but I’m so pleasantly surprised at how successful and popular your channel here has become. I’m LOVING this, just like your limited resources content this is supreme craftsmanship. You are a great role model.
Any time the watch is nearly put back together and there is still more than half the video remaining you know something unexpected is just around the corner.😁 Great video, Marchall, and congratulations on your new micrometer and lathe!
Great job, You have sympathetically restored it and not over restored it, which in my mind is the correct way to restore any antique, the wear and tear is it’s history, Great Job Again 👍 Paul from 🏴 🇬🇧
I'm so pleased you kept the dents and worn appearance! Gosh something used to the state of that is just awesome and I'm certain there's a fascinating story behind each imperfection. Seeing the insides got me giddy with all the tiny moving parts each having a specific purpose for an end goal of such precision. It's amazing to see the majority still working after so many years
Just wow. Your narration is so captivating. I just thought about skipping through just to see how a watch is assembled but ended up watching the whole thing! Thanks!
@@MrKrieger56 True which may help wristwatches make a comeback because it's more convenient than taking your phone out. For a while it was pretty dead, you could find am Omega from the 60s for 200 bucks if it wasn't a popular model. Seems like they are coming back a little. And people seem attracted to complex mechanical devices in the age of the transistor. A bit like a steam engine you carry around.
Watching this makes me want to send you all of my grandpas old pocket watches, most of them wont even wind up anymore. My grandmother would love to see them working again.
Hi Marshall, I've been watching you and Mark's videos for a while now, and find it amazing . I even bought some tools to tinker around with. I bought a bag of watches from eBay and some were wind up and others quartz movements. A fellow on eBay had three watches pretty cheap, and I bid on the, not very much, and in the bunch was an old Waltham that wasn't working. I took the movement out of the case and put it into a jar of Naptha (lighter fluid), and swished it around a bit, and low and behold, the thing started running. I think this will be the first one I'll take apart, or maybe, an old stop watch may dad used for his time study job, back in the 30's and 40's. Surely enjoy your vids, and look forward to seeing them. I'll be turning 85 in July ! Bob U. from N.E.Ohio.
So, I'm in IT. And I watch these video's for the sheer relaxation it brings me. But this time I noticed something else happening in my mind: I tend to start treating my own work with much more patience and attention to detail and care that you show us with watchmaking. Like, for instance: it pays to keep the dial safe in it's own container. "Everything in it's place and a place for everything." So my job and I thank you ;-)
for case back dent removal; delrin rods in a variety of diameters, lightly round the edges a bit, lightly tap rod into the case back with a soft face jewelers hammer (either the nylon or the brass side, doesn't matter. you're touching the case with the delrin, not the hammer). you may wind up with a variety of rounded ends for various use cases, but thems the breaks. side note; delrin ain't crazy cheap. nylon works, but tends to mushroom faster. and for those who don't have the bits before hand, or want to stay on the low cost side, yeah rounded toothbrush handles can do the job too hah.
Marshall! Sir, you always surprise me with the way you restore valuable watches. This is amazing. Very proud of people like you saving the history. I really enjoy watching your videos.
This is really cool to see! I grew up in Elgin and I’ve always heard about the old watch factory, but it was torn down quite a long time ago. I was never too into watches but maybe this will be my gateway in!
Marshall, you have such a soothing voice. I don't even care for watches but once I found your channel, I'm hooked. Such entertaining, relaxing videos that I thoroughly enjoy. 😃
I really enjoy watching you display your skills. I realize that this is way beyond what I can do, but you have got me started on building my own clocks from 3D printed parts. I'm working on two designs now and having some success. Thanks for giving me a push
A fellow 3D printing enthusiast!, seriously considering starting to try and print one of those projects too, deffinitly need to fine tune my printer (an Anet A8) before trying though they look to be quite a challenge
@@woodwaker1 nice work, cool to see them in motion, especially speeding along in high speed mode just to demonstrate how the gears work together, thinking I might try finding a more purely mechanical design even if it means I have little chance to fully regulate it, it would just give me an excuse to interact with the clock more often
I like how you use the word "used" in such a loving manner, as you could actually use "love" as a substitute word; as in; "look how loved this watch was for so long". Good job. Makes me think the same when you see a well warn Bible, it didn't just sit in a book case or on a coffee table.
The video is awesome, I really enjoy both the satisfaction of the restoration and the technical information, part description and all. This channel really got me into the hobby and even though I'm still in the beggining phase of learning and studying about what's going on in watches, It really makes me wonder how people buy a watch that's actually worth the price you're paying for for repair. I went on ebay and it seems like most of the watches that are being sold are just ones that are really not worth to repair at all as it seems like they are being sold by experienced watchmakers who don't think it's worth it. If anyone's into the hobby and would like to give me some tips on how to not get scammed or make stupid purchases, feel free to share!
I just got home after a tiring trek through the forest and seeing such a gorgeous pocket watch on this channel is just what i needed to watch while having a god rest
Very impressive filming and editing, not to mention those surgically steady hands moving all those tiny pieces around. I can only hope to make my channel as professional as yours someday. Keep up the great work!
I’ve watched for some time now. And now I’m comfortable to ask. With everything being so precise and so delicate like the balance, is there a specification where the screws should be torqued as to not over tighten? Would over tightening screws or not enough tightening would cause the watch to run faster or slower?
From what i've learned watching this channel, I would guess not. The screws only serve to fix the bridges to the body of the movement. The metal faces would touch eachother, and while it's technically true that the clamping force would compress the metal itself a little bit, in this case (with the thickness of the metal and the low clamping force) the effect that loose/tight screws have would be neglible. The important thing is the location of the jewels, which have a through hole in them. With the bridges screwed down and the metal faces touching, the height of those jewels wouldn't change. And with a bit of wiggle room, that the pivot/axis is slightly smaller than the distance between the upper and lower jewel, it would be fine independent of the tightness of the screws. What would be more important I guess is the side to side location of those jewels. Screws in themselves don't act as a particularly effective locating feature. When almost screwed down, such machine screws (with a flat bottom) allow for some side to side motion, since the screw thread isn't the exact size of the hole it is in. Therefore there are locating pins on the underside of every bridge. These pins fit inside precision holes in the body of the movement with a tight tolerance, which makes sure that the jewels are in a precise location.
I'm just starting on this journey, and no, you won't affect the movement when you tighten the screws. The bridges have locating pins and stand-offs to position the bridge perfectly. For wheels that are directy held by screws (ratchet wheel and crown wheel) then the screws have a shoulder to prevent any pressure on the wheel. If a wheel doesn't turn freely after fixing the screw, then it means you used the wrong screw. Really cheap movements made of sheet metal (US Time, Timex etc.) might be a little more sensitive to how you put things together, but they are not normal movements and usually are much harder to work on. In fact, they were never really meant to be worked on or repaired but you can if you are good enough. See Marshal's Mickey Mouse Watch service video. As far as how tight, just finger tight so it is just firm is enough. Most of these threads are a small fraction of a millimetre thick. You don't go torquing anything this tiny. You very quickly get a feel for what is correct.
Contrary to what others say, Yes. Over tightening or under tightening screws, for example yhe screw that holds the balance cock in place, the tighter you torch that screw, the tighter your sandwiching the wheel/ gear that that cock/bridge is holding. So it is possible to overtighten screws. Especially the bridge or cock screws. Over tightening the balance cock screw, could put to much pressure on the balance wheel, which in turn could lead to poor amplitude, or in some cases, even stop the watch from running
There aren't any specifications for torque on screws like this, but usually you screw them down until they resist, and then go just a bit more, like 1/8th of a turn, and you'll feel when it's set. And no you can't really affect the timekeeping of the watch with how much you screw down the screws. It's more that if you don't do it enough it could back out, and if you do it too much it could shear off.
I have my great grandfathers pocket watch he carried with him during WW1. Its in rough shape, glass is broken into pieces. Does not run or wind up. Total basket case. But to me its invaluable. Just knowing that my great grandfather carried it during the entire duration of the war (He signed up at the outbreak of the war and by the end of it he was over in Egypt) makes it really special.
the idea of restoring a item enough to preserve and bring back functionality without removing the story of the the items history and life is a place where there is a huge amount of joy and in the handling and use of the item afterwards ( i always try to do this with old tools )
First time watcher here: Your finger-gloves freaked the hell out of me at first. However I enjoyed your narration and explanation to everything youre doing. Also your clear voice and accent-free english makes it easy to understand for non-native speakers. Added to my list of craftmen-channels :).
I have this exact watch! It was given to me by my Grandfather and was given to him by his father. Its dated back to the late 1800's as Elgin first started producing watches in 1864 and my grandfather was born in 1912, and my Great grandfather purchased it long before his son was born. I am eager to see all the parts in this watch as I have only taken the crystal off and the back cover off just to take a peak, LOL. I have had the watch since I was 18, so over 40 years now, and it was serviced in the 70's before being given to me, then again in the 80's becuase it was not running after I wound it up. Its done the same thing again and wont run and I dont want to over wind it. I am not sure what causes it to stop running, its kept in a safe location and is not used and has never been bumped or dropped. I think I am suppose to wind it up every now and then but I always forget to do it, then a few years later I try to run it and its stuck again, lol. I will be passing this watch on to one of my two sons so will need to get it serviced. I may send it to you as you seem to have a great work ethic and have worked on at least two of these watches that I have seen here on your channel. God bless you for your dedicated hard work in restoring these family heirlooms and pieces of history!
What a beautiful little piece of fine-tuned machinery. It's rather refreshing and relaxing to watch the inner workings of something as simple as a pocket watch and admire the detail and precision we were capable of back in those days, back when things were manufactured with real craftsmanship and durability. Thanks for the awesome video!
Love ya on Magic (came here because Day9 mentioned this channel), but this was absolutely amazing. Seeing a watch restored piece by piece is fascinating.
I really enjoy watching your channel. I have this same watch, I think. It was my step fathers , fathers. He found it in his mom's house when she passed away, and he remembered his dad carrying it in his overalls when he worked on their farm. He passed it on to me after my mom passed a few years back. He said it hasn't worked since he has found it, but it still holds a special spot in his heart. How could I send this watch to you to repair so I could give it back, working as a Fathers Day gift to him
I want to thank you for all your videos. A 1926, 1923, and 1919 Elgin 345 movement are the first 3 watches I took apart and reassembled, 100% based on your advice on this channel, and it really got me off on the right foot. Cheers!
I am so impressed by how they were able to craft these precision elements/mechanics so far back. Those small gears, with such detail, with the tech available then.
Watchmaking/repair, is alot like engine building, there are NO shortcuts, everything needs to be hospital clean, properly lubricated,correct tolerance, obviously only on a MUCH smaller scale. I've been considering dabbling in watch repair, as an ex auto technician (specifically a heavy engine technician) it's right up my alley. Great video.
Oh darn, you shattered my illusion! I've been telling myself that watch makers back then were travelling into the now to get supplies and design ideas...oh well wonderful work, beautiful pieces and very informative narrative. Thank you.
One of the most satisfying parts of your watch revival videos is, when you put on a new crystal / or polish the crystal to have clear view of the dial again!
My dad owned a jewelry store until the 80's and now I know what alot of the hand tools are that I inherited after watching these videos. Now I might have to get an old Elgin to work on for practice. I remember as a kid talking to George the watch expert at my dads store and he talked about his time when he worked for Elgin watch works, when he was younger.
Excellent work! Thank you for this video. I have an 1850 pocket watch . Interestingly enough there are pieces of paper in outer case. They are in between pieces of material. Each paper was placed there when serviced by Greenwich watch company. Really nice to see repairmen so dedicated that they would leave info for next man working on watch. I would love for you to see it . Thanks again.
I have been watching your videos for a while Marshall and they are fantastic! The patience and skill you have is great, and the way you explain everything makes the videos so polished and interesting. I have watched a few other channels that do similar but they are nowhere near as engaging to watch....looking forward to the next one already! many thanks
Well done. When I was in my early teens, I used to wish I was a boy so that I could have a pocket watch like my Grandfather. He would let me hold it and I would enjoy listening to the ticking. My oldest brother got the watch when he passed away. Still love the beauty of these watches. Thanks for sharing
Hey Marshall, I only found your channel recently and I've fallen in love with your videos, they're so relaxing to watch and your way of narrating over the top as if you were actually doing it at the time is just superb. On a different note, having watched quite a lot of your older videos and now some of your new ones within a short period of time, I can confirm that you are many times better at regulating oil in your latest videos than you were in your older ones. Can't wait for your next vids!
I’m always so amazed how well they were made back then. So nicely and precise manufactured. Just discovered your channel and love it. And as a magic player I love to see the magic play mat in every video
I just this past Sunday received two pocket watches from my father. Both are Hamilton’s, by serial number they are both 17 jewel watches and one is from 1904 and the other is from 1919. I would love to see them working again. One was my great grandfathers and the other is from my aunt’s grandfather. These videos are great.
My usual process with youtube videos is to have them running in the background whilst doing something else, ostensibly to maximise my time (Heh) but these videos get my full attention. Something about the combination of the sheer enthusiasm in your voice and the subject matter just draws me right in. Wouldn't mind getting a job/education in something like this. Taking things apart and putting them back together just feels right.
I am amazed at the patterning on the metal-work inside the watch. I doubt the owner would ever see it, just a watch repairer/restorer. My Uncle would have loved to have seen this. He had a watch repair shop and was always a busy boy!
Found your channel the other day. Before then I had no interest in watches. Now I can’t stop watching this and just bought a mechanical watch on eBay. My wife thanks you for giving me more stuff to buy. LOL. Really amazing stuff. I absolutely love that you explain so much. Makes it super fun to watch. Great work.
very well done. My local watchmaker has worked on quite a number of Elgin pocket watches and they are pretty nice. Great to see a family piece restored, which would cost more than its value to have a retail watchmaker work on it. Sentimental value is important.
We have an almost identical watch to this, except the back is very decorated, The movement looks the same, it's in amazing condition, and has not been used since 1940 when my Dad bought it in Hong Kong , it runs very erratically, and he always said it needed a new Balance Staff. Great video, wish it was ours that you'd been fixing! Well done, superb job there! beat wishes from the UK
Like wise I just ordered a tool set for my new hobby! And I just picked up a 1925 copy of this movement, can't wait to get started and service alongside you Marshall! Thank you for the inspiration and wonderful videos.
Wow, i don't know how i found this video, I don't know why i clicked on it, i don't really understand why i would watch an guy i have never seen before fix an old watch when i'm not interested in watches but still here I am after having watched the whole video and it was really fascinating and an great video! Good job with making the watch look great again! 😄
I just wanted to let you know I've just finished buying everything I need to get into this hobby because of you. The timing of a new release was just the perfect cherry on top. Thank you! :)
It's really fun. I was insanely lucky that my dad and grandfather were watch and clock makers so I didn't have to buy any tools. Fun times.
Great choice, I think I'll end up doing the same as soon as I've got some freetime; I've already have a "patient" it's a Waltham 8 days clock from the 40's but it's pretty much a big pocket watch with a quite strange setting crown, and it comes from an 1948 RCA transmission electron microscope which became mine after a lab couldn't keep it anymore and it was destined to landfill fortunately i saved it, it would've been a shame to lose that marvel of vacum tube electronics
That’s a lot of money!
One does not simply “have enough” watchmaking tools.
That is lucky for you. Me however my grandfather was a watchmaker but he died in 1960 when I was only five so all of his tools and supplies are gone. Where and to when I'll never know.
I love the little design details all over that you can't appreciate truly until you take it apart completely. This thing is art.
Beautiful curved lines, engraving, tool marks, grain and decorative polishing.
This was awesome to see and makes me think about when I had my Great-grandfather's pocket watch fully serviced a few years ago. It was in rough shape and not working and it ended up costing more than the value of the watch itself, but it was worth it to know it might keep running for another 70 years. My Grandmother gave it to him as a gift when she got her first paycheck after turning 18 and he kept it in his front pocket until the day he died. It had the same level of wear and tear as this watch and I would have never considered getting it replated and covering up that history, just like you were saying. Thanks again for sharing this!
Isn’t that grand father
Mine is a similar story, as two years ago I had my grandfather's pocket watch serviced for more than its monetary value; although of course it has lots of sentimental value to me.
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You did the right thing.
@@oscarosullivan4513 Daughter's gift to her dad after first paycheck, so Great-Grandpa
As an engineer, I must say that was very satisfying to watch. I don't think my hands are steady enough to attempt anything like this. Thank you.... Poetry in motion !!!
@tradde11 our dad's would have had A LOT to talk about!
@tradde11 Rest them on the table. My shaky hands are annoying for paintibg model ships so I rest them on the table, sometimes using the second hand to stabilize the first.
While sorting some stuff we found an old Pocket Watch. After asking my grandmother(s) about it we learned it actually belonged to their father and - as far as I remember - it was a gift to their wedding. It isn't a special watch and it actually does run, but stops after a few minutes.
I didn't want a full restoration (the dail is in a bad shape), but I'd love to get it running - just so it can be used as a watch.
My local Watchmaker checked it and said its to "broken" and turned down the job. Somehow I'm not convinced since the shop tried to sell me a new pocket watch - they didn't understand that I didn't want ANY Pocket Watch, I wanted this one.
Now its safetly stored and I want to find some Pocket Watch Maker to check it. Thanks Marshall for the video, this was amazing to watch.
You'll want to look for someone who specializes in restoring vintage watches. There's definitely some people in America doing it but I think there's a much larger market in Europe for this sort of thing (though I would be weary of shipping a watch like that overseas). Maybe try asking around on the /r/watches subreddit and see if they can recommend a good restorer.
@@KillerWhale806 Thanks, I'm from germany so I hope I can find someone here in the area that is specialized in old vintage watches. The subreddit is worth a try, if someone there can point me to the correct watchmaker that would be awesome.
@@Motti22
I knew you were German as soon as I saw you capitalizing nouns.
you're wrong. That's just because he have use copy/paste while making sure the translation was correct. Nothing to do with being German.
This is an exceptional video, I have my grandfathers watch and he was a Roadmaster on the Canadian Pacific Railroad for 35 yrs. It is an Elgin Railroad watch he got from a man during the depression.
The fact that they were able to manufacture precisely machined but irregularly shaped tiny things like the pallet fork with 19th century technology amazes me even more than tiny screws.
I was thinking the exact same thing. It's amazing how small some of these parts can be.
@@dygger I would also like to see how they machined the gears
@@woodwaker1 Watch gears were mostly manufactured by hand until late 18th century: th-cam.com/video/uxzWk7v9sUo/w-d-xo.html
@J Hemphill Thanks for the information. Still amazing
Yeah it's incredible what they could do
I have an 1882 Elgin in a Duebler (sp?) case. The front cover has an engraving of an elk. The back has two leaves. One opens to hold a photo, the second one opens to reveal the movement. It is a lever set watch and keeps beautiful time. I wear it whenever I am wearing bib overalls as they have a bib pocket and button hole for this reason.
This is amazing- I bought a couple of early 1900s elgin pocket watches movements that are in remarkable shape. I bought the pocket wat movements because of your advice on your videos, and then I learned about how there are different sized pocket watches, and the ones I bought were size 0 LOL. So they aren't alexactly larger and easier to work on, but they are unique and I love them and have enjoyed troubleshooting the issues like a broken pallet fork jewel! Thanks for making the amazing videos and for getting me into a new hobby and obsession!
SAME! The first pocket watch I tried wasn't much larger than my wristwatch but it's still a blast. Marshall's videos have gotten me through a lot of issues with this new-found hobby.
"A waterfall of Wheels," you Sir are a watchmaker and a poet! Love it, 👍❤️
I loooooove the textured finish they used on the ratchet & crown wheels. So lovely, and something only the watchmaker will ever see.
If I could make one mod it would be a exabition caseback, especially since the original looks kinda rough anyway.
Really is a well loved watch either way though with so much history worn into it
Yeah that's called snailing and it's gorgeous
I think the recent acquisition ClickSpring has made is capable of doing Snailing (of which there's a special breed of machine just for that). Worth checking out his video on it and what it can do.
love the attitude of the makers
no-one but a watch smith will ever see it and then only every 10 years so lets make it beautiful because....why not
I love how similar the disassembly is to dissection, it's like the watch is a living thing!
Another job well done!! I Wanted to tell you about my 1945 Bulova, was my great uncle's watch. He told me he received it Christmas day 1945. He passed in 1994 4 months after his 100 birthday. Ive had it since then. Its been basically my daily watch since. Looks nearly new except for some slight patina on the face. 10 k gold filled still sparkling. Original metallic band also. In the 28 years I've had it, no repairs, I have it serviced every 5 years. 77 years old, it gains about 3 minutes every 6 days. BULOVA can be very proud of this old work horse!!
You've always said that reinstalling a balance and having it immediately start ticking again is the most satisfying feeling in watchmaking. Having now experienced that feeling for myself, I absolutely agree. Best feeling ever. 10/10, would recommend.
After watching here I opened my pocket watch for the first time gave the top jewel of the balance wheel a light cleaning with a tooth pick and gave the wheel a tap, my heart leapt as the balance came to life. I thought it was broken. Its still filthy inside and in need of cleaning but that feeling when it came to life was priceless.
@@ComfortRoller May i ask what actually qualifies as dirty, im new around here and well, lets suppose the watch was sat inside a drawer for well over 20 years with no service, what sort of filthiness should i expect to find?
I just pulled my great-grandfathers pocket watch out of my safe and found out more about it. It's a Hamilton 912 made in 1933. It's Nickel with a gold chain and a knife fob. Still works. Had this watch for a few decades after my grandmother gave it to me but never thought much about it until I started watching your videos. It's not railroad quality nor is it very valuable, which isn't a big deal to me. Makes me want to start wearing waistcoats so I can wear it all the time. Thank you!
I ran into this channel. Never thought about watching someone refurbish watches! But, this is my 3rd in a row. It's so satisfying because it's a very slow, tedious process - yet it's calming to watch someone who has patience because I have absolutely n patience for tedious details. Wish I did. But, how satisfying. You narrarate and edit your videos perfectly. Thank you!
Amazing what a modern mainspring and a cleaning can do for these things. Seeing the graph read +1/-1 must have been great
I really like that you’re using this hobby to better yourself and that the art of watch repair has helped you gain more insight into your own personal traits. Always enjoy these therapeutic sessions.
This is one of my favorites so far. Watching you give a family heirloom the care and respect it deserves is a real treat. Thanks for sharing!
I am fascinated by how carefully he handles the parts and arranges them on the bench. Watching his videos at the end of my working day is somehow soothing and mesmerizing. I almost don't care about the watch he's repairing...
What a nice story and cleanup. I so agree with you - Don’t over restore!
Oh my god. Stumbling upon your video completely randomly just made me took a trip to memory lane. A good childhood memory. My uncle owned a wristwatch shop and my dad would often take me and my mom when I get a brand new watch or have it repaired.
While they talked, I was so curious and intent on watching my uncle work on it. I see his tools and him working on the watch. It truly fascinated me. When he noticed me watching, he told me some stuff but I was too young to understand it lol.
My dad was an auto mechanic while his brother for wrist watches. I dearly miss them both. Imma go cry a bit. Q_Q
I have no reasonably idea of why this came up in my youtube feed but i absolutly love it! the precision on this craft is simply amazing, and the thought that they made this kind of complex mechanical engineering with the small tolerances needed in 1920 is beyond me;D truly amazing content! will without a doubt be following here for sure.
I grew up and live in Elgin Illinois very close to where the old watch factory used to be. Thanks for cleaning and showing off one of our watches! Morbid fun
fact-Clyde of Bonnie and Clyde had an Elgin Pocket Watch on him when he was killed lol
Watching your show always reminds of spending hours when I was a kid watching my Granddad showing me how to take watches apart to repair/clean them. Unfortunately he could never put them back together again, so we ended up with a cigar box half full of various bits from different watches by the end. Happy memories.
I inherited a few of my grand father's watches. I remember him wearing them, some for work in the fields and one for Sunday church. He was born in 1886, and the watches were not much younger than him.
Interesting story
@@oscarosullivan4513 He told me stories of the civil war from veterans he knew. How history is so interesting
Find that cigar box! Hahaha!
I've been watching your videos sporadically over the course of the last year and a half. I'm actually from Chicago, Illinois. But i grew up in Elgin, Illinois. Having the watch factory and the planetarium there for time keeping was kind of a throwaway. But knowing the history the city had in time keeping and manufacturing is completely insane. Crazy how a city with such heritage can fade away
Just bought a pretty vintage (80-90s) watch while thrifting and thanks to ur vids I felt confident enough to pop off the back and I’ve ordered a replacement battery, it’s in such great quality so I think it’ll be able to run after I replace the battery :D
The Goodwill and other thrift stores are chock full of discarded quartz watches. They have no dollar value, and can hardly even be given away in today's smartphone and smartwatch culture, but if the style and condition meets with the seeker's approval they can be worth their small price plus the cost of a battery. Just remember that most of them can be replaced with brand new similar models - including ten year battery - for $9.95 to $39.95 at discount big box stores.
If changing batteries is desired, I suggest looking at the case back to find the battery number, then ordering six or ten of them from Amazon for less than the the price of one at a retail store. They also sell several batteries of six or seven different types all on one card, very cheap.
Those old case backs are friction fit, and have one small slightly raised spot where they are supposed to be levered free by a semi-sharp tool. Cover the back with a couple of layers of painters tape to prevent scratches - I guarantee for beginners the tool will slip and scratch the back if not protected. Don't use a knife - the blade is too sharp and the metal too brittle.
@@ammoalamo6485 I bought a guess chrono from ebay for about $10. It needed a new battery. I had taken an Omega pocket watch, cased in the USA by Elgin, in rolled gold, to a Horologist. He replaced the spring and serviced the watch. I asked him if he could get the pressed back off the guess watch. No problem he said, I will use a guillotine. Well he tried but could not get it off. I had tried other street vendors who also could not open it. So I took the watch home, got a thin screwdriver, and a light hammer, and tapped away. Its was the hardest back I had ever removed. I put the new battery in and put the watch on the cover press. There was no way it would go back on. I put some small cuts in the rim, but retaining its seal edge, and press fitted it, but it would not fully seat. I got a cloth and the light hammer and gave it a sharp tap. It seated. If a Horologist could not get it open, this old motor mechanic managed it.
Been back a few times to this project...it's like comfort food watching this. Love the positive attitude and attention to detail.
Hi Marshall! I've listened to hundreds of episodes of LR back when I was into competitive Magic, and probably watched just as many events where you were in the booth. I found these videos' of yours by happenstance a few days ago, and have really enjoyed them as someone who knows next to nothing about watches. It's been a real blast from the past hearing your commentary style over this content, and I've loved every minute of it. I hope you get to keep doing what you love like this going forward!
Just want to say thank you, I was like that voice is insanely familiar and I couldn’t put it together. But the endless amount of PT GP and CFB content I’ve listened to.
@@jhynes4899 sorry what do those stand for?
@@samgould9930 PT = pro tour GP = grand prix cfb = channel fireball, all references to the man’s mtg (magic the gatherer casting and pro career
I started the hobby of watch repair recently and I got a Waltham pocket watch from 1905 in and I got it running. It was great.
This is a beautiful watch. To the point where this video enraptured me start to finish. I’m jealous of your first patron but glad he has such a fine device for you to service. I’m happy this is my first introduction to your channel as a clueless unsuspecting layman.
I came here from limited resources. I’m a newbie watch guy but mostly checked out the channel due to me loving your mtg content.
I say this not condescendingly but I’m so pleasantly surprised at how successful and popular your channel here has become.
I’m LOVING this, just like your limited resources content this is supreme craftsmanship.
You are a great role model.
Any time the watch is nearly put back together and there is still more than half the video remaining you know something unexpected is just around the corner.😁 Great video, Marchall, and congratulations on your new micrometer and lathe!
Great job, You have sympathetically restored it and not over restored it, which in my mind is the correct way to restore any antique, the wear and tear is it’s history, Great Job Again 👍 Paul from 🏴 🇬🇧
I'm so pleased you kept the dents and worn appearance! Gosh something used to the state of that is just awesome and I'm certain there's a fascinating story behind each imperfection.
Seeing the insides got me giddy with all the tiny moving parts each having a specific purpose for an end goal of such precision.
It's amazing to see the majority still working after so many years
Yeah this was a special watch for sure
Just wow. Your narration is so captivating. I just thought about skipping through just to see how a watch is assembled but ended up watching the whole thing! Thanks!
It would be great to see pocket watches making a comeback -- they have a quality all of their own.
Bad bot
In many ways people's phones are the new pocket watches. I know a lot of folks who don't wear a watch and just use their phone to check the time.
@@MrKrieger56 True which may help wristwatches make a comeback because it's more convenient than taking your phone out. For a while it was pretty dead, you could find am Omega from the 60s for 200 bucks if it wasn't a popular model. Seems like they are coming back a little. And people seem attracted to complex mechanical devices in the age of the transistor. A bit like a steam engine you carry around.
Watching this makes me want to send you all of my grandpas old pocket watches, most of them wont even wind up anymore. My grandmother would love to see them working again.
Hi Marshall, I've been watching you and Mark's videos for a while now, and find it amazing . I even bought some tools to tinker around with. I bought a bag of watches from eBay and some were wind up and others quartz movements. A fellow on eBay had three watches pretty cheap, and I bid on the, not very much, and in the bunch was an old Waltham that wasn't working. I took the movement out of the case and put it into a jar of Naptha (lighter fluid), and swished it around a bit, and low and behold, the thing started running. I think this will be the first one I'll take apart, or maybe, an old stop watch may dad used for his time study job, back in the 30's and 40's. Surely enjoy your vids, and look forward to seeing them. I'll be turning 85 in July ! Bob U. from N.E.Ohio.
So, I'm in IT. And I watch these video's for the sheer relaxation it brings me. But this time I noticed something else happening in my mind: I tend to start treating my own work with much more patience and attention to detail and care that you show us with watchmaking.
Like, for instance: it pays to keep the dial safe in it's own container. "Everything in it's place and a place for everything."
So my job and I thank you ;-)
for case back dent removal; delrin rods in a variety of diameters, lightly round the edges a bit, lightly tap rod into the case back with a soft face jewelers hammer (either the nylon or the brass side, doesn't matter. you're touching the case with the delrin, not the hammer). you may wind up with a variety of rounded ends for various use cases, but thems the breaks.
side note; delrin ain't crazy cheap. nylon works, but tends to mushroom faster.
and for those who don't have the bits before hand, or want to stay on the low cost side, yeah rounded toothbrush handles can do the job too hah.
hard wood has worked well for a few centuries also. :)
I was wondering if the crystal press could do the job also.
Thanks, I'll look for that
Marshall! Sir, you always surprise me with the way you restore valuable watches. This is amazing. Very proud of people like you saving the history. I really enjoy watching your videos.
This is really cool to see! I grew up in Elgin and I’ve always heard about the old watch factory, but it was torn down quite a long time ago. I was never too into watches but maybe this will be my gateway in!
Marshall, you have such a soothing voice. I don't even care for watches but once I found your channel, I'm hooked. Such entertaining, relaxing videos that I thoroughly enjoy. 😃
The Bob Ross of watches. Same reason I keep watching pluss watches are awesome machines.
@@dmatula811 I agree. You hit the nail on the head. Thought I was the only one obsessed with his voice and diction. lol
Aw, thank you, I appreciate it :)
I really enjoy watching you display your skills. I realize that this is way beyond what I can do, but you have got me started on building my own clocks from 3D printed parts. I'm working on two designs now and having some success. Thanks for giving me a push
A fellow 3D printing enthusiast!, seriously considering starting to try and print one of those projects too, deffinitly need to fine tune my printer (an Anet A8) before trying though they look to be quite a challenge
@@UNSCPILOT Take a look at the ones I did. Woodwaker1 on you-tube
@@woodwaker1 nice work, cool to see them in motion, especially speeding along in high speed mode just to demonstrate how the gears work together, thinking I might try finding a more purely mechanical design even if it means I have little chance to fully regulate it, it would just give me an excuse to interact with the clock more often
I like how you use the word "used" in such a loving manner, as you could actually use "love" as a substitute word; as in; "look how loved this watch was for so long". Good job. Makes me think the same when you see a well warn Bible, it didn't just sit in a book case or on a coffee table.
The video is awesome, I really enjoy both the satisfaction of the restoration and the technical information, part description and all. This channel really got me into the hobby and even though I'm still in the beggining phase of learning and studying about what's going on in watches, It really makes me wonder how people buy a watch that's actually worth the price you're paying for for repair. I went on ebay and it seems like most of the watches that are being sold are just ones that are really not worth to repair at all as it seems like they are being sold by experienced watchmakers who don't think it's worth it. If anyone's into the hobby and would like to give me some tips on how to not get scammed or make stupid purchases, feel free to share!
Your inclination is correct, you have to be very selective about which ones you go for
I just got home after a tiring trek through the forest and seeing such a gorgeous pocket watch on this channel is just what i needed to watch while having a god rest
Agreed, some of the most relaxed yet entrancing channels I've ever watched, an entire hour can fly by and I don't even notice!
Very impressive filming and editing, not to mention those surgically steady hands moving all those tiny pieces around. I can only hope to make my channel as professional as yours someday. Keep up the great work!
my family is in possession of my great grandfathers elgin pocket watch which dates to 1890. It's in fantastic shape and still runs!
I’ve watched for some time now. And now I’m comfortable to ask. With everything being so precise and so delicate like the balance, is there a specification where the screws should be torqued as to not over tighten? Would over tightening screws or not enough tightening would cause the watch to run faster or slower?
From what i've learned watching this channel, I would guess not. The screws only serve to fix the bridges to the body of the movement. The metal faces would touch eachother, and while it's technically true that the clamping force would compress the metal itself a little bit, in this case (with the thickness of the metal and the low clamping force) the effect that loose/tight screws have would be neglible. The important thing is the location of the jewels, which have a through hole in them. With the bridges screwed down and the metal faces touching, the height of those jewels wouldn't change. And with a bit of wiggle room, that the pivot/axis is slightly smaller than the distance between the upper and lower jewel, it would be fine independent of the tightness of the screws.
What would be more important I guess is the side to side location of those jewels. Screws in themselves don't act as a particularly effective locating feature. When almost screwed down, such machine screws (with a flat bottom) allow for some side to side motion, since the screw thread isn't the exact size of the hole it is in. Therefore there are locating pins on the underside of every bridge. These pins fit inside precision holes in the body of the movement with a tight tolerance, which makes sure that the jewels are in a precise location.
I'm just starting on this journey, and no, you won't affect the movement when you tighten the screws. The bridges have locating pins and stand-offs to position the bridge perfectly. For wheels that are directy held by screws (ratchet wheel and crown wheel) then the screws have a shoulder to prevent any pressure on the wheel. If a wheel doesn't turn freely after fixing the screw, then it means you used the wrong screw. Really cheap movements made of sheet metal (US Time, Timex etc.) might be a little more sensitive to how you put things together, but they are not normal movements and usually are much harder to work on. In fact, they were never really meant to be worked on or repaired but you can if you are good enough. See Marshal's Mickey Mouse Watch service video.
As far as how tight, just finger tight so it is just firm is enough. Most of these threads are a small fraction of a millimetre thick. You don't go torquing anything this tiny. You very quickly get a feel for what is correct.
Contrary to what others say, Yes. Over tightening or under tightening screws, for example yhe screw that holds the balance cock in place, the tighter you torch that screw, the tighter your sandwiching the wheel/ gear that that cock/bridge is holding. So it is possible to overtighten screws. Especially the bridge or cock screws. Over tightening the balance cock screw, could put to much pressure on the balance wheel, which in turn could lead to poor amplitude, or in some cases, even stop the watch from running
The saying I've heard is tight is right, too tight is two pieces.
There aren't any specifications for torque on screws like this, but usually you screw them down until they resist, and then go just a bit more, like 1/8th of a turn, and you'll feel when it's set. And no you can't really affect the timekeeping of the watch with how much you screw down the screws. It's more that if you don't do it enough it could back out, and if you do it too much it could shear off.
I have my great grandfathers pocket watch he carried with him during WW1. Its in rough shape, glass is broken into pieces. Does not run or wind up. Total basket case. But to me its invaluable. Just knowing that my great grandfather carried it during the entire duration of the war (He signed up at the outbreak of the war and by the end of it he was over in Egypt) makes it really special.
It's hypnotizing to see you work. 🙂👍🏼
Thanks for letting us in this process.
back at it to watch more of this. took a couple months off, now i got a bunch of satisfying videos to just binge when bored. esketit
Who would have ever thought that watch cleaning would be so satisfying. Thank you.
the idea of restoring a item enough to preserve and bring back functionality without removing the story of the the items history and life is a place where there is a huge amount of joy and in the handling and use of the item afterwards ( i always try to do this with old tools )
First time watcher here: Your finger-gloves freaked the hell out of me at first. However I enjoyed your narration and explanation to everything youre doing. Also your clear voice and accent-free english makes it easy to understand for non-native speakers. Added to my list of craftmen-channels :).
I have this exact watch! It was given to me by my Grandfather and was given to him by his father. Its dated back to the late 1800's as Elgin first started producing watches in 1864 and my grandfather was born in 1912, and my Great grandfather purchased it long before his son was born. I am eager to see all the parts in this watch as I have only taken the crystal off and the back cover off just to take a peak, LOL.
I have had the watch since I was 18, so over 40 years now, and it was serviced in the 70's before being given to me, then again in the 80's becuase it was not running after I wound it up. Its done the same thing again and wont run and I dont want to over wind it. I am not sure what causes it to stop running, its kept in a safe location and is not used and has never been bumped or dropped. I think I am suppose to wind it up every now and then but I always forget to do it, then a few years later I try to run it and its stuck again, lol.
I will be passing this watch on to one of my two sons so will need to get it serviced. I may send it to you as you seem to have a great work ethic and have worked on at least two of these watches that I have seen here on your channel.
God bless you for your dedicated hard work in restoring these family heirlooms and pieces of history!
What a beautiful little piece of fine-tuned machinery. It's rather refreshing and relaxing to watch the inner workings of something as simple as a pocket watch and admire the detail and precision we were capable of back in those days, back when things were manufactured with real craftsmanship and durability.
Thanks for the awesome video!
Love ya on Magic (came here because Day9 mentioned this channel), but this was absolutely amazing. Seeing a watch restored piece by piece is fascinating.
I really enjoy how you keep it moving with no lag time.
I really enjoy watching your channel. I have this same watch, I think. It was my step fathers , fathers. He found it in his mom's house when she passed away, and he remembered his dad carrying it in his overalls when he worked on their farm. He passed it on to me after my mom passed a few years back. He said it hasn't worked since he has found it, but it still holds a special spot in his heart. How could I send this watch to you to repair so I could give it back, working as a Fathers Day gift to him
I want to thank you for all your videos. A 1926, 1923, and 1919 Elgin 345 movement are the first 3 watches I took apart and reassembled, 100% based on your advice on this channel, and it really got me off on the right foot. Cheers!
Awesome! That's really cool
@@WristwatchRevival next time you're in NJ, there's a beer or two here with your name on it.
Beautifully restored. You did all right stuff to this one and nothing more.
I am so impressed by how they were able to craft these precision elements/mechanics so far back. Those small gears, with such detail, with the tech available then.
Thank you been collecting pocket watches for years, nice to see someone take one apart.
Watchmaking/repair, is alot like engine building, there are NO shortcuts, everything needs to be hospital clean, properly lubricated,correct tolerance, obviously only on a MUCH smaller scale. I've been considering dabbling in watch repair, as an ex auto technician (specifically a heavy engine technician) it's right up my alley. Great video.
Oh darn, you shattered my illusion! I've been telling myself that watch makers back then were travelling into the now to get supplies and design ideas...oh well wonderful work, beautiful pieces and very informative narrative. Thank you.
taking a hobby to the next level! i know nothing about watches or watch repair, but your videos are fantastic!
Hi Dave I see you won a prize, I too got this answer to my comment is it true or has Marshall's page been hacked.
@@jembo1959 no idea about prizes so somebody got hacked 😩
Another awesome video! It`s nice to see someone who is preserving history and appreciate the work that went into these time pieces!
One of the most satisfying parts of your watch revival videos is, when you put on a new crystal / or polish the crystal to have clear view of the dial again!
I think it's my favorite part maybe :)
your speed and knowledge can be seen in progression of these videos just giving you a compliment for you progression
My dad owned a jewelry store until the 80's and now I know what alot of the hand tools are that I inherited after watching these videos. Now I might have to get an old Elgin to work on for practice. I remember as a kid talking to George the watch expert at my dads store and he talked about his time when he worked for Elgin watch works, when he was younger.
Excellent work! Thank you for this video. I have an 1850 pocket watch . Interestingly enough there are pieces of paper in outer case. They are in between pieces of material. Each paper was placed there when serviced by Greenwich watch company. Really nice to see repairmen so dedicated that they would leave info for next man working on watch. I would love for you to see it . Thanks again.
I have been watching your videos for a while Marshall and they are fantastic! The patience and skill you have is great, and the way you explain everything makes the videos so polished and interesting. I have watched a few other channels that do similar but they are nowhere near as engaging to watch....looking forward to the next one already! many thanks
Thank you :) I appreciate that!
So peaceful watching these videos. Something I would have loved to take up as a hobby. Beautiful to see an old piece like this being given some tlc.
I had one of those. Gave to my brother. Great watch. I was told it was given to the railroad workers cause it kept great time
I just picked up an elgin with a nickel case from 1925 and started working on it. So far it's been great experience
Well done. When I was in my early teens, I used to wish I was a boy so that I could have a pocket watch like my Grandfather. He would let me hold it and I would enjoy listening to the ticking. My oldest brother got the watch when he passed away. Still love the beauty of these watches. Thanks for sharing
Hey Marshall, I only found your channel recently and I've fallen in love with your videos, they're so relaxing to watch and your way of narrating over the top as if you were actually doing it at the time is just superb. On a different note, having watched quite a lot of your older videos and now some of your new ones within a short period of time, I can confirm that you are many times better at regulating oil in your latest videos than you were in your older ones. Can't wait for your next vids!
I’m always so amazed how well they were made back then. So nicely and precise manufactured. Just discovered your channel and love it. And as a magic player I love to see the magic play mat in every video
Being from Elgin, IL, I truly enjoy watch you work on Elgin Watches.
Now if I could just get people to stop "correcting" me on the pronunciation! lol
I just this past Sunday received two pocket watches from my father. Both are Hamilton’s, by serial number they are both 17 jewel watches and one is from 1904 and the other is from 1919. I would love to see them working again. One was my great grandfathers and the other is from my aunt’s grandfather. These videos are great.
I don't know anything about watches, but I can really appreciate your skill and passion. Nice work!
I look forward to each of these. Thanks so much!
man, id almost want a clear back on a watch like that to see all the movements. I love old distressed antiques like this. Amazing, Thanks!!
Beautiful. Lubricating old moving parts is the most satisfying thing.
My usual process with youtube videos is to have them running in the background whilst doing something else, ostensibly to maximise my time (Heh) but these videos get my full attention. Something about the combination of the sheer enthusiasm in your voice and the subject matter just draws me right in.
Wouldn't mind getting a job/education in something like this. Taking things apart and putting them back together just feels right.
I am amazed at the patterning on the metal-work inside the watch. I doubt the owner would ever see it, just a watch repairer/restorer. My Uncle would have loved to have seen this. He had a watch repair shop and was always a busy boy!
I'm really fond of these old watches. Thank you for this!
I love the way you describe the way a watch works; it was absolutely beautiful.
Found your channel the other day. Before then I had no interest in watches. Now I can’t stop watching this and just bought a mechanical watch on eBay. My wife thanks you for giving me more stuff to buy. LOL. Really amazing stuff. I absolutely love that you explain so much. Makes it super fun to watch. Great work.
Haaha thanks for watching :) And tell your wife sorry!
very well done. My local watchmaker has worked on quite a number of Elgin pocket watches and they are pretty nice. Great to see a family piece restored, which would cost more than its value to have a retail watchmaker work on it. Sentimental value is important.
We have an almost identical watch to this, except the back is very decorated, The movement looks the same, it's in amazing condition, and has not been used since 1940 when my Dad bought it in Hong Kong , it runs very erratically, and he always said it needed a new Balance Staff. Great video, wish it was ours that you'd been fixing! Well done, superb job there! beat wishes from the UK
Like wise I just ordered a tool set for my new hobby! And I just picked up a 1925 copy of this movement, can't wait to get started and service alongside you Marshall! Thank you for the inspiration and wonderful videos.
Which mainspring winder do I need for this movement?
So cool. I think this is the first video I've seen with you taking apart the balance. Thanks
Wow, i don't know how i found this video, I don't know why i clicked on it, i don't really understand why i would watch an guy i have never seen before fix an old watch when i'm not interested in watches but still here I am after having watched the whole video and it was really fascinating and an great video! Good job with making the watch look great again! 😄
TH-cam algorithm brought me here and I'm not even mad. Fascinating stuff.
You make it look so easy. I very much enjoy watching and listening to your work.
WOW!!! Just simply amazing to “watch”, especially the two jewels with mini-screws with one having a divot in the center. Outstanding work!