Watch running waaayyyy too fast

[redwatch]

Hello all,

My first rep is this somewhat terrible speedmaster chrono, but with no chrono functions. Basically, they added day date functions in place of the chrono functions. Also, the watch runs really fast. If I set the time at 9am in the morning, it will be between 5 and 10 minutes ahead by 5pm (it doesn't seem consistent). So, since I am definitely going to keep at this hobby for a long time, I figured now is the time to start experimenting with watch repair. I am a mechanical engineer, and I am very good with my hands.

As a noob, my question is, where do I start? This particular rep is a perfect starting point for me. No worries here if I mess it up. But how do I adjust the timing when it is that off? Is this a common issue with the really cheap reps?

Any help and/or advise will be greatly appreciated!

Thanks!

[Toadtorrent]

Hello all,

My first rep is this somewhat terrible speedmaster chrono, but with no chrono functions. Basically, they added day date functions in place of the chrono functions. Also, the watch runs really fast. If I set the time at 9am in the morning, it will be between 5 and 10 minutes ahead by 5pm (it doesn't seem consistent). So, since I am definitely going to keep at this hobby for a long time, I figured now is the time to start experimenting with watch repair. I am a mechanical engineer, and I am very good with my hands.

As a noob, my question is, where do I start? This particular rep is a perfect starting point for me. No worries here if I mess it up. But how do I adjust the timing when it is that off? Is this a common issue with the really cheap reps?

If you're up for some fun...dive in. There's an article on regulating or adjusting the beat in the Noob Guide linked in my signature. That will get you started. Try that. BUT...bear in mind, the adjustments on the arm are VERY SMALL...AND, 5-10 minutes off in 0.5 days is likely more than can be adjusted by regulating. But, you can play around and see how it works.

[redwatch]

Thanks Toad. That is exactly what I was thinking. No loss if I damage it, and if anything else I can certainly learn a lot about it. I already dove in and purchased numerous watch repair tools and I have a huge collection of fine jewelers tools for my everyday job. Really getting excited about getting in the new tools so I can crack this baby open!

I did check out your noob guide (which is EXTREMELY informative!) but I think that this particular watch may be well beyond just a simple adjustment like that.

If you're up for some fun...dive in. There's an article on regulating or adjusting the beat in the Noob Guide linked in my signature. That will get you started. Try that. BUT...bear in mind, the adjustments on the arm are VERY SMALL...AND, 5-10 minutes off in 0.5 days is likely more than can be adjusted by regulating. But, you can play around and see how it works.

[fotoman]

so your speedmaster is having trouble mastering the speed of time?

[redwatch]

so your speedmaster is having trouble mastering the speed of time?

Yeah, I guess it's just a little too speedy! Oh well, I am happy to have a new "project" watch that I can dissect and figure out!

[andreww]

Hairspring is likely tangeled. Hold it with the crystal in your palm and give it a firm slap on the back. Usually works instantly.