Horological Meandering

I received a phone call the other day. The man said his watch was hard to wind, we talked for a while about what it could be. He said, he would ship it to me to take a look. So, here is the look. Omega chronograph cal. 861 This is starting bad, I see rust...  

and humour. I like both :-) Thanks! Oliver

I had no idea that the main spring was so long. That was a fascinating post - thanks for taking the time to share. -- Sancerre

This is a long mainspring Inserting oiled arbor into the barrel. Closing barrel lid. Closed. Thank you for posting back. ...  

I'm wondering where has the watch been. it looks like its been on the wrist of James Bond or something. except this james bond had to fight an army.

How did you get the screw out, given that half the head was missing? Was it floating around in there? I'm curious to learn more. Thanks Conor

This particular screw was fairly easy to remove, given half the head was still there. The screw was also of the type that was not flush with its seat. Which allowed me to file another slot on the remaining part of the head. screw with slot filed. file I u...  

...but still working despite the condition. A testament to Omega. Thanks for documenting the disassembly. Just as impressed by how quickly you take care of your customers!

and thank you for the compliment.

At least i know what my watches go through when i send them to my watchmaker. G

Thanks for the details. There's an article in the latest Watch Time that features "a day at the spa," where it describes, in detail, what a watch goes through for service. This illustrates it better, since there are pictures. Thanks, again. -Dean

And I'm sure the news are not that bad, since he will get it back in perfect condition. :)

I reallly enjoy looking under the "hood"! :) Best Blomman

That you can't remember where all the bits go?

I met a guy at my hotel watch gift store when visiting Hawaii and his wife bought him an omega speedmaster the previous day (same as the one your fixing) he was showing the clerk the watch damage so of course I had to take a peek. Seems the watch was fill... 

... particularly to see surgery on an old favourite like tha Cal. 861. Another patient saved! Regards, Andrew

Content + entertainment = much appreciated. Please do continue, perhaps with interesting case studies or educational ones. All the best.