Synopses & Reviews
Watchmaking skills that were commonplace in the trade about the turn of the centruy virtually became obsolete with the introduction of packaged precision spare parts by both the Swiss and the American makers, as well as Japanese in more recent times. Watchmakers seldom were required to use frazing tools, wheel stretching devices, lathes and hand tools to make a part or to alter a packaged or ebauche part to fit a particular movement. Eventually watchmaking schools eliminated much of the instruction relating to these skills, thus the term watch repairer more correctly described those who make their living servicing timepieces.
The number of craftsmen who could consistently produce speciality replacement parts for their customers and the trade dwindled to a virtual handful. Today they are in great demand and in short supply. Many serious craftsmen are attempting to recapture these skills so they can take advantage of the current need for handmade replacement parts for some of the finest mechanical watches ever produced. As the author of the book points out, "it's a sign of the times when handmade replacement parts are as valuable as diamonds".
The purpose of this book is to cover in detail the methods the author has develped during a lifetime at the bench, methods which are the quickest, easiest and least expensive way of making high grade parts for obsolete mechanical watches. Those who become involved in the process will find it to be fascinating, enjoyable and financially rewarding.