Here are some helpful References to assist you in providing detailed and accurate inquiries and requests:
Parts Identification
If you’re engaged in repair or restoration or even just tinkering I encourage you to look at the parts catalogs we sell for virtually all of the major American Watch manufacturers. We also have Crystal catalogs, Staff Catalogs, Mainspring catalogs and even the occasional repair guide – both used and reprinted. However, to assist you in the short term we’ve collected the following reference materials.
American Watch Parts – We have parts cataloged in a myriad of ways but the simplicity of the C & E Marshall system has made my work with American parts much easier than other – just click on the name to open up those references, but just be aware that these documents are provided as a courtesy and are not designed to be printed, duplicated or shared.;
- Major makers – Elgin, Waltham, Illinois & Hamilton
- Mainsprings – Mostly for American Watches
- Movement Information & Reference
Swiss Watch Parts – This is a bit more difficult to catalog succinctly, but again I’ve chosen to rely mostly on the C & E Marshall system to track the majority of Swiss parts. I am expanding my inventory of factory Swiss parts and have also acquired a Bestfit Master system which I plan to take the next 10 years to inventory.
- Factory Parts – Bulova
- C & E Marshall Handy Manual – Front, and Back (it’s big so I broke it up)
- Contact me if you want to know where to get a Bestfit 111 & 111A
Crystals – The most recent GS Crystal catalog can be found at their website along with a quick guide on how to properly identify crystal types; http://www.gssupplies.com/plastic_watch.html.
Watch Identification
The Pocket Watch Database – Resource for identifying American Pocket Watches. http://pocketwatchdatabase.com
As we’ve said, our primary purpose is to sell watch parts but if you are in the Oregon or Washington you can contact some of the folks we’re familiar with and very comfortable recommending:
- Seattle Watch Repair – Mark Smith is both a nice guy and a snappy dresser (see the photo) and he’s earned the trust of everyone he knows and he has even taught us a thing or two over the last couple of years (but don’t tell him that). But do tell him that we sent you.
- Renaissance Watch Repair – Not only do they specialize in watch repair but they have taken the time to provide a plethora of fantastic reference material for the watch collector in their How-To section. I encourage you to go there and check it out.
Links to related sites.
NAWCC – National Association of Watch & Clock Collectors. Resources for the collector, hobbyist & professional. http://www.nawcc.org
AWCI – American Watchmaker’s – Clock maker’s Institute. The premier organization dedicated to preserving and promoting the highest standards of workmanship in the horological crafts. http://www.awci.com
Antiquorum – The World’s Premier Auctioneers of Modern and Vintage Timepieces. Take a moment and get their Timepiece grading system. http://www.antiquorum.com
Norwest School of Horology – Not many schools left but this is the one I’ve chosen to highlight with since they’re in Seattle and I’m a former student in their programs. http://www.norwestschoolofhorology.com
Jewelers Liquidation – Sister site that specializes in liquidation services. Over 30 years of helping Watchmakers, Clockmakers, Jewelers and Supply Houses with inventorying, assessing and selling their inventory. http://www.jewelersliquidation.com
