Antique pocket watches are best understood from the inside out. Dial signatures can be retailer names, cases may have been changed, and identical-looking watches can contain movements of very different quality.
1. Routine service
Routine service should be evaluated alongside the movement maker, exact grade, serial number, size, case material, originality and service status. Record what is visible, separate confirmed facts from seller claims, and avoid winding or opening a watch when the mechanism or case access is uncertain.
2. Mainspring replacement
Mainspring replacement should be evaluated alongside the movement maker, exact grade, serial number, size, case material, originality and service status. Record what is visible, separate confirmed facts from seller claims, and avoid winding or opening a watch when the mechanism or case access is uncertain.
3. Balance staff work
Balance staff work should be evaluated alongside the movement maker, exact grade, serial number, size, case material, originality and service status. Record what is visible, separate confirmed facts from seller claims, and avoid winding or opening a watch when the mechanism or case access is uncertain.
4. Jewel repair
Jewel repair should be evaluated alongside the movement maker, exact grade, serial number, size, case material, originality and service status. Record what is visible, separate confirmed facts from seller claims, and avoid winding or opening a watch when the mechanism or case access is uncertain.
5. Dial and hand work
Dial and hand work should be evaluated alongside the movement maker, exact grade, serial number, size, case material, originality and service status. Record what is visible, separate confirmed facts from seller claims, and avoid winding or opening a watch when the mechanism or case access is uncertain.
6. Case and crystal work
Case and crystal work should be evaluated alongside the movement maker, exact grade, serial number, size, case material, originality and service status. Record what is visible, separate confirmed facts from seller claims, and avoid winding or opening a watch when the mechanism or case access is uncertain.
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