Restoration of American Pocket Watches
American pocket watches represent an important chapter in the history of precision timekeeping. Each movement reflects a time when craftsmanship, engineering, and reliability were held to the highest standard. My work focuses on the careful restoration and preservation of these historic timepieces. Every watch is disassembled, cleaned, inspected, and serviced with the goal of returning it to reliable operation while respecting the originality of the movement. Restoring these watches is more than repair-it is a preservation of mechanical history.
A Philosophy That Stays With Me
A teacher and friend of mine, who is a retired master watchmaker, once made a simple statement that has stayed with me ever since: "In watchmaking, everything matters."
That idea reflects the nature of the craft. Every component, every adjustment, and every small detail plays a role in how a watch performs. Precision work requires patience, care, and respect for the movement as a whole.
It is a principle I keep in mind with every watch I service. In watchmaking, the smallest details often make the greatest difference.
What Makes a Proper Watch Service
Proper service of a mechanical watch requires far more than simply making adjustments or applying new oil. A watch that has been running for many years accumulates worn lubricants, debris, and contamination that cannot be addressed without a complete disassembly of the movement.
During proper service, the movement is fully disassembled so that each component can be individually cleaned and carefully inspected. Old lubricants are removed, parts are examined for wear or damage, and the movement is then reassembled using the correct lubricants and techniques intended for watchmaking.
Attention must also be given to correct parts and proper adjustment. Using incorrect components or shortcuts during service can cause unnecessary wear or permanent damage to the movement.
A careful and methodical approach helps preserve the integrity of the watch while allowing it to perform as it was originally intended.