I received response from TC, (who had it reviewed by Experia78) saying that a loose screw was the problem. I have since received the watch and it is working perfectly. There was some conversation that went back and forth with TC about what caused this. We were unable to conclude who's fault it was that the movement had issues. I had it modded the moment I got it, but from a reputable person who I really don't think caused the movement issues as that person didn't touch the movement. It's weird there was a screw loose probably jamming the movement in some way.
Either way, I had to replace the stem and crown with a new one cus shortening it did not work and made it difficult to get "bite" into the winding position. It was almost impossible to hand wind it as it would catch the thread and start screwing in.
TC asked for $60 (for new crown and stem) and said he would cover the labor. Overall great experience, great guy who stands behind his product.
Waiting was not fun, but all worth it.
Mods: gen crystal with AR and gen black insert.