pocket watch time

Types of time adjustment methods

There are several ways to set the time for a pocket watch, depending on the era and type of watch.

We will introduce each including a video.

①Pendant set (pull the crown)

It is a method of pulling and turning the general crown even in a wristwatch.
This method is common for pocket watches after 1900.

The one with the crown that can be pulled upward is the pendant set.
If you apply too much force suddenly, the crown may be damaged.
So please try to pull it slowly while applying force.
It's easy once you know the strength and tricks.

② Lever set (sword pull)

It is a method that pulls out a small lever on the side of the dial and turns the crown.
It is often seen in pocket watches and railway clocks around 1900.

Hook the lever on the side of the dial with your fingernail and pull it out.
You can set the time by turning the crown while it is pulled out.
When pulling out the lever, be sure to pull it all the way out.
In rare cases, there is also a method of sliding instead of pulling out.

③ Nail set (push dowels)

It is a method of turning the crown while pressing a small button near the crown.
It can be seen on watches from around 1890-1910, during the transition to pendant sets.

Turn the crown while pressing the small button on the side with your fingernail.
The time cannot be set unless the button is pressed firmly.

④ Key alignment (keyhole)

This is the method of setting the time for old key-winding pocket watches before crowns became popular.
There is a keyhole for setting the time on the back of the clock, separate from the mainspring keyhole.

In addition to the keyhole for turning the mainspring, there is also a keyhole for setting the time.
The keyhole near the center is the time setting keyhole.

⑤ Key alignment (needle direct)

It is a method to set the time by inserting the key in the center of the needle and turning it directly.
You can see it in old British clocks.

Open the windshield, insert the key in the center of the keyhole and turn it directly.
Needles of this type are often thick and welded and strong.
Again, turn carefully so as not to damage the dial and hands.

FAQ

・Which direction to turn the crown?

There are many things that rotate in the direction that the time advances by turning the crown counterclockwise when viewed from above.
However, some pocket watches are reversed.

・Isn't it good to go back in time?

Basically, it is said that it is better to match the direction in which time advances.
Reverse rotation is also possible, but it seems that parts may be damaged depending on the machine.
However, I think that fine adjustment of about 10 minutes is not a problem in my experience.
However, it is better to set the time only in the forward direction for watches that have functions other than time setting in the crown, such as chronographs and calendars.

・When the crown pull is hard?

On rare occasions, old watches may have a hard pull on the crown.
If you pull it while rotating it a little, you may be able to pull it straight.
If it still does not work, ask a watch shop to repair it.

・What if the crown comes off?

The crown is a part that is subject to force, so it is fragile and considered a consumable item.
Also, even if it is not broken, it is only fixed with screws or adhesive, so it may come off if you use it.
If the crown comes off, bring the watch and the crown that came off and ask a watch shop to repair it.

There are different types of pocket watch time adjustment methods than wristwatches.
Beginners may find it difficult, but once you get used to it, it will be smooth
You will be able to do it, so you don't have to be too careful.

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