Pocket Watch Balance Staff Replacement, a Complete Tutorial

In this episode, I want to take the time to show you how to replace a broken pocket watch balance staff. With the right tools and a bit of patience, it is not that difficult. I will say, the first time you do this repair, you will probably be a bit intimidated, but don't let the watch get the best of you.

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Thanks for watching, and happy Watch Repair!

[goldslinger]

Been doing this hobby for 2 Months. Just replaced a balance staff on a Hamilton 940 with double roller. It now runs perfectly with only .8 beat error. This video helped me along. Thanks!

[fabianosetti]

Very nice. I like the 3D animations a lot. Helps beginners like me. The more detailed the better. I should attempt this soon. Have to buy a staking set first.

[marekeos]

Fantastic video. Very informative and professionally done. Much appreciation for your hard work.

[gergemall]

Thank you, I recently developed an interest in pocket watches and Wrist watches, I have some inexpensive tools and started looking into estate sales today, great joB

[johnrogers]

Thanks for that peter. Excellent work. I have one to do tomorrow. My first in 25 years. I just have to do it. Right.

[Yellowjacket-nq]

Thank you for the excellent graphics/illustrations!
Does the rounded end of the stake actually peen the balance wheel onto the staff?

[itzhaccroitoru]

Very nice Tools, and explain that nicely

[JLMiller]

How do you find a new balance staff? Do you take measurements from the old one? Do you have a collection of various staffs that you find one similar to the broken one? IE Are they universal in design where an Elgin might fit a Waltham, etc?

[libindaniel]

Would you mind explaining a bit more on the placement of the hairspring? I am still a bit confused on the positioning. It seems like at the end of the video, the hairspring was positioned such that the impulse jewel is 180 deg apart? Is there another step to turn the collet? If so. how do you turn the collet to position?

[janm]

Zima mu je na ruky? Za 15 minút, nemám čo robiť 🙂

[Ed-lzjv]

nice work, I just got a K&D staking set, looks like same chrome anvil...real nightmare trying to figure what rod is what etc !

[TommyTightPants]

Hi peter ive just watched the video on how to change a balance staff and it was very informative and help full. please could you tell me how to find a correct staff for a pocket watch only on a wrist watch their is a makers name i.e. ETA /OMEGA follow by a model number so its easier to order a new one but on a pocket watch it only says swiss then a serial number or a jewelers name. or will does a swiss staff fit any watch has long its a size 16 17 18 Linge best regards ady

[Donnybrook]

how do you determine the proper replacement staff for your movement and where do you source new staffs? Thanks

[gwsjr]

I've seen lots of vids on the staff replacing and most of them poise the wheel before adding the hairspring. Is that a step not needed?

[GrahamLeach]

Peter, I am overseas. Can I source parts from you?

[bobklumpp]

All due respect but you should get one of those little rubber puffer things to spin a balance wheel. It seems like hitting it with your finger like that could break the pivot again.

[bismillakhanm]

Once upon a time 1000 watch I replacement balance staf

[ananthamurthymadhugiri]

Focussing the image is poor. Hence unable to understand properly. Thanks.

[tpjxqvi]

This is a breakdown of the watch, not a repair. Watchmaking enthusiasts - do not go this way !!!