In this video, I walk through installing a hairspring onto a balance wheel using a staking set. This is a fundamental but high risk operation in mechanical watch repair, and small mistakes here can destroy a balance assembly fast.
I cover proper orientation, seating the collet, aligning the impulse jewel with the pallet fork, and using the staking set correctly without bending the staff or distorting the spring. This is real bench work, not theory, using practical techniques that apply to vintage mechanical movements.
Time Stamps:
0:05 Opening
0:33 Verify power to pallet fork
0:52 Here’s the problem
1:22 Impulse jewel identification
2:25 Roller table identification
2:38 Good vs bad balance pivots
3:48 Hairspring installation plan
5:04 Placing the balance to align impulse jewel
5:55 Placing balance cock / aligning hairspring
7:27 Placing hairspring / getting staking set
7:52 Stake and anvil identification
8:19 Centering the stake / placing the anvil correctly
9:16 Center the stake
10:00 Placing the balance on the anvil
10:30 Verify center with stake
10:56 Stage the hairspring
11:30 Showing the loupe
12:14 Hairspring installation with brass hammer
12:52 Hammer, but softly
13:40 Verify installation
13:50 Outro
If you are getting into balance work, staff replacement, or hairspring corrections, this is a skill you must get right before moving forward.
No shortcuts. No magic tools. Just controlled pressure and patience.
TOOLS I USE ON THE BENCH
These are the exact tools I use on the bench for servicing, restoration, and troubleshooting.
Start with the Starter Kit and build from there.
Starter Kit (Beginner Setup)
Core Bench Tools
Hand and Dial Work
Lubrication and Oil
Recommended Books
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Movement holders and full project trays I design and use in my own work
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COMMUNITY AND LEARNING
NAWCC Chapter 59
NAWCC Chapter 59 Facebook
Journey of a Horophile
Watch Straps
DISCLAIMER
I’m a hobbyist watchmaker sharing what I’ve learned through hands on practice. This reflects one practical approach among many. Techniques evolve as I continue learning.
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