Removing hands

[mosesgodfrey]

Hi all—looking for advice on removing the hands on an English watch circa 1850. I assume the screw will need to come out, but I’d like to be sure if it’s right or left thread. It appears others have been here before me, so I want to do it right the first time.

 

[roughbarked]

The hands simply lift off. Take care not to mark the dial. You are only imagining that a screw needs to be undone.

 

[mosesgodfrey]

Thanks. Yes, my imagination is a vivid one. Thought I’d check first, before trying—and crying!

 

[gmorse]

Hi Moses,

That isn't a screw, it's the remains of the hole for the cross pin that originally held the cannon pinion in place. Just do as roughbarked has suggested and lift them off. The top of the centre arbor has often been filed down to the cannon pinion, either because a lower crystal was fitted or just to avoid having to take a tiny pin out.

Regards,

Graham

 

[mosesgodfrey]

Aha, now I understand what I’m seeing. Thanks, Graham