Expert: Melvin Mills - 7/10/2009

Question
I'm having trouble assembling a full plate 1886 elgin 7 jewel after cleaning.  I can't get all the parts to stay aligned while putting the plate back on.  Ecpecially the escapement pallet.  Any tricks?

Answer
Larry,

ah the full plate watch.  I have a theory that all unsolved suicides are due to attempting to service full plate movements.  

Here are some tips:

Make sure your bench is high enough.  It should be shoulder high.  This allows you to keep the movement level while looking inside.

Next, use a piece of peg wood to guide the staffs into the pivots. (the bars into the holes).  You will need to go slow and start on one side.

as you have the top plate GENTLY on the top of the pivots, you should be able to get them to stay still while aligning the rest.

Kind regards,

Melvin