Hi all,

There is at least one user over here that regularly works on his own watch, so I thought I'd turn to this forum for advice.

After taking one old clock apart and actually getting it to work and run reasonably accurately, I think I've gathered enough confidence to at least open up my Malvern and to be able to adjust it myself. Also, I'd like to be able to take out links from a bracelet, or change a strap without the use of a pocket knife

I'm not planning on making half links, or even change date wheels (yet).

What tools would you lot recommend?

cheers,
peter

This is what I consider a solid starter-kit:

Absolutely necessary:
- Two loupes, 4x and 10x (I use Bausch & Lomb, inexpensive and good enough)
- Dustblower, the orange Bergeon is perfect (No 4657) (can also be handy when you are into photography)
- A good screwdriver kit (this is the most important part of your set!!!) (I use Bergeon No 5970)
- At least two tweezers (Dumont is great, I have #2 and #5)

Very handy (and cheep):
- Pithwood (Bergeon No. 2133) for cleaning your tweezers and screwdrivers)
- Rodico cleaning putty
- Peg Wood, multifunctional, can be used for almost anything
- Spring bar tool (for removing straps)

Optional:
- Case holder (again, Bergeon makes very good ones)
- a box of watch paper
- some plastic compartment part trays

And if you are looking for a good place in NL where they can deliver fast:

http://www.friederichs.nl

Peter, for adding/removing links to a bracelet, I am increasingly convinced that a hammer/punch/block is the way to go. I resized my mother-in-laws bracelet last week and it was such a breeze with these tools compared to some of the more sophistocated screw type pin removers.

I provide a lot more detail in this thread:

http://www.christopherwardforum.com/vie ... ?f=1&t=487

Kip wrote:Joe, I too have been considering getting some basic watch tools. Have you or does anyone here have any experience with the Timezone watch school? Opinions? Or am I just as well off getting some basic tools ala Bergeron and an old watch and playing around.

Ha! Funny you should ask. I haven't taken the TZ watch school courses yet, but I plan to in the next few months. Just haven't had the time in the last 1.5 years. But, make sure you read the free sample lesson they have...I assume it is still available.

Also, I think it is probably worth reading one of my exploits concerning this, here:

http://www.christopherwardforum.com/vie ... loor#p1095

Kip wrote:Joe, I too have been considering getting some basic watch tools. Have you or does anyone here have any experience with the Timezone watch school? Opinions? Or am I just as well off getting some basic tools ala Bergeron and an old watch and playing around.

I followed both TZ Watchschool classes. They are o.k., not great, but o.k.

Hans wrote:

Kip wrote:Joe, I too have been considering getting some basic watch tools. Have you or does anyone here have any experience with the Timezone watch school? Opinions? Or am I just as well off getting some basic tools ala Bergeron and an old watch and playing around.

I followed both TZ Watchschool classes. They are o.k., not great, but o.k.

Are you aware of any better online courses available?