Tamer contacted me, as he had bought a batch of NOS Double Rhomb watches. The interesting bit was that they came in their original packaging!
This watch probably dates from the early 80s, as the dial is already in Chinese and English, and the movement is the 17 jewel Tongji.
The watch is in immaculate condition, straight out of the box.
After over 30 years in the box, this is pretty good. The amplitude is a bit low, but performance is still good!
First look at the movement – very clean, just no lubrication left.
The dial is immaculate.
And so is the bottom plate.
The gear train. The central second construction is well made, with the fourth wheel jewelled on both sides.
I will re-use the mainspring.
All the components cleaned.
I put the balance jewels in and oil them.
The mainspring goes back into the barrel.
Now I put the gear train in.
The top plate is complete, and the movement is beating.
That looks nice – good amplitude, good, constant beat rate.
Now I can put the bottom plate back together.
Ready for the dial.
Movement cased.
And the watch is back together again.
The bracelet isn’t of great quality, but the watch is a solid, good piece of workmanship.
Back into the original case.
If you are interested in buying one of these off Tamer, you can email him at tamer.fernandes
old chinese watch better than now
Not that its any of my business but why would anyone get one of these serviced ? I say you be darn lucky to get £50 for one!
Chris,
This is my watch. And as a watch repairer, I have the luxury that I can service whatever I like 😉
Christian
Nice! Thanks for sharing this witu us!
What an interesting thing… and +3s seems to be quite good for one of these movements, though I wonder now if that is down to the design or just sloppy construction – maybe it was never lubed!
I am tempted to enquire as to the price 😉