Some solvents (One-Dip, for example), are useful only for removing residual lubricants which have migrated to places they shouldn’t be (hairsprings, for example). But they don’t work well for solidified ”gunk” such as you show in the mainspring barrel. There’s no substitute for good quality, all-purpose cleaner such as L & R mineral based watch cleaning solutions, and proper cleaning equipment. Not only that, these dip-type cleaners are not effective for removing less obvious solidified gunk on (for example) pivots and jewels. If you are going to venture into repairing of watches, it is vital that you learn proper procedures, and have access to the right materials and equipment. “Dip and swish” just doesn’t work.
Would you recommend a ultrasonic cleaner with L&R then?
As I said in my post, you will have little or no success in the repair of watches without the right materials, and the right equipment. You need to decide how far you hope to go in the repair of watches, and either do it, or back away from it. There is a LOT of learning and expense involved if you are going to do it right. Alcohol will NOT remove the contaminants found in watch movements, even with ultrasonics.
Well then, what would your advice be to this poster, and how would you try to put the point across?
As I said in my post, you will have little or no success in the repair of watches without the right materials, and the right equipment. You need to decide how far you hope to go in the repair of watches, and either do it, or back away from it. There is a LOT of learning and expense involved if you are going to do it right. Alcohol will NOT remove the contaminants found in watch movements, even with ultrasonics.
I'm not a watchmaker. If I were a watchmaker, and I thought XYZ Solvent would work, I'd say "You might try using some XYZ solvent." I would try to not be all negative and scolding: "You will have little or no success..." "You need to decide how far you hope to go..." "Alcohol will NOT remove..." "It is vital that you learn proper procedures..." etc. These are not helpful pieces of advice.
I have an old Omega pocket watch that i inherited from my grandfather. Now I'm about to service it. I've disassembled and then cleaned the parts in isopropanol. But there is still grime in the barrel. I soaked it for 48 hours and used a toothbrush to brush it. As shown in the picture the grime is still there. And i don't have a ultrasonic cleaner either.
Anyone got i solution for this?
Kerosine/WD40/IPA/denatured alcohol etc are cheap from the local hardware.
Brushes from Kmart/etc.
Jars/baskets, toothpicks/chopsticks from the kitchen.
So not a huge expense to get going.
Then an ultrasonic machine. About AUD$500 to $1000.
Then a cleaning machine. Mine was about AUD$4000, but you can get used ones, eBay etc.
Unless you are going to get into it big time and only do one or two watches a year, the simple setup is sufficient.
Forgot to mention, do not clean pallet forks or balance wheels in alcohol (denatured/IPA) as you risk softening the shellac that holds the pallet jewels and roller jewel. Many watches now do not use shellac, but unless you know what it is, assume shellac
