Most every consumer would agree that watches make an excellent jewelry purchase. Not only are they fashionable, timeless, and elegant, but they are a necessary, pragmatic item as well. For a watch to maintain its practicality, you must ensure that the time is being kept correctly. In order to accomplish this, you may need to calibrate the watch hands on occasion. Here are a few tips to help you calibrate your watch hands with the needed precision.
Tips for Calibrating Your Watch Hands
It is important to first ensure that you have all of the tools needed to calibrate your watch hands. These tools will allow you to align the hands with the appropriate hour markers on the dial as needed to ensure a correct time. Some of the tools include, but are not limited to, a loupe, or magnifying glass to closely examine the watch, a hand setting tool to move the hands delicately, a dial gauge to measure the hands’ alignment, a micrometer to measure the hands’ with precision to make appropriate adjustments, and a timing machine to measure the rate of the watch movements.
Once you have the necessary tools for calibrating your watch hands, you can begin by adjusting the gears and levers to ensure that the movement of the hands is keeping time correctly. Additionally, you can use lubrication when calibrating the watch hands. This will ensure that the watch hands can move smoothly and will prevent unnecessary friction within the watch which could in turn cause the time to be malaligned. SImply put, if the pieces of the watch can move seamlessly, you will aid your watch in aesthetics, longevity, and accuracy. Additionally, one may need to regulate the balance wheel to assist with the timekeeping function of the watch. To regulate the balance wheel, you may need to adjust the weight on the wheel or alter the spring’s length. A final tip to keep in mind if you opt to calibrate your watch’s hands is to give it a visual inspection. Check to be certain that the hands align properly with the timers. This will ensure functionality as well as maintain the appearance of the watch.
It is important to note that calibrating watch hands takes great precision and expertise. If you lack the proper tools, knowledge, and experience, it is best to leave this type of task up to a professional. Experienced watchmakers will understand and know the steps needed to ensure optimal timing performance for your watch. Simply put, when in doubt, defer to a professional to complete this meticulous and critical process of calibrating your watch hands with precision.
If you find yourself unwilling or unable to calibrate your watch hands, there are some enhancements to keep in mind when purchasing a new watch. Specifically, there are certain attributes within watches which will help avoid issues with the watch hands. One notable enhancement that modern watches offer is to have one that has been built using anti-magnetic materials. Additionally, before purchasing a watch ensure that proper testing and inspection has been completed in regards to the watch hands to ensure an acceptable level of quality control.
