Subject
Clock and watch making Books
Best books
Claudius Saunier
The watchmakers' hand book : $b intended as a workshop companion for those engaged in watchmaking and allied mechanical arts
"The watchmakers'' hand book : intended as a workshop companion for those… by Claudius Saunier is a technical handbook written in the late 19th century. It is a comprehensive reference for watchmakers and allied mechanical trades, focusing on practical methods, materials, tools, measurement, repairs, and finishing techniques to support daily workshop work. The opening of the handbook presents a transcriber’s note on formatting, followed by period advertisements, the title page, and a preface explaining the American edition’s practical aims, expanded content, modernized tooling, integrated illustrations, and thorough indexing. An extensive index outlines the breadth of topics, after which Part I begins by arguing that arithmetic, geometry, and drawing are essential foundations for competent watch repair and construction despite interchangeable manufacturing. It then offers concise refreshers on calculation signs, powers and roots (including square-root extraction), proportions, and the elements of practical geometry (circles, angles, plane areas, and volumes). The text proceeds to basic drawing practice and conventions, tracing and transferring methods, and key instruments (rules, protractor, scales, sector, proportional compass, vernier, micrometer screw), before introducing core geometric constructions for perpendiculars, parallels, subdivisions, and angle replication—ending mid-topic on subdividing an angle.
W. T. (William T.) Lewis
Friction, Lubrication and the Lubricants in Horology
"Friction, Lubrication and the Lubricants in Horology" by W. T. Lewis is a scientific publication written in the late 19th century. The work focuses on the critical aspects of lubrication in horological mechanisms, exploring various types of lubricants, their sources, refining methods, and the physics underlying friction and lubrication relevant to timekeeping devices. The opening of the text introduces key issues in the horology field, emphasizing the often overlooked but vital importance of proper lubrication for the longevity and accuracy of timepieces. Lewis outlines common failures stemming from inadequate lubrication and highlights the need for horologists to understand the physical principles governing these processes. He begins by discussing different types of lubricants used in horology, including oils sourced from marine mammals, and delves into modern refining techniques that enhance their effectiveness, setting the groundwork for more detailed explorations to come.
Eugene Edward Hall
A Treatise on Staff Making and Pivoting Containing Complete Directions for Making and Fitting New Staffs from the Raw Material
"A Treatise on Staff Making and Pivoting" by Eugene Edward Hall is a detailed instructional manual written in the early 20th century. This book serves as a comprehensive guide for watchmakers focused on the intricate process of creating and fitting balance staffs and pivots. The work provides careful instructions that emphasize skill and precision in the craft of horology. The treatise explores the entire process of staff making, starting with the raw materials and tools needed, progressing through the shaping, hardening, tempering, and finishing of the balance staff and its pivots. Hall discusses various types of pivots, their geometric properties, and the importance of precise measurements and polishing techniques. The book combines practical advice with theoretical insights, aimed at both novice watchmakers seeking to improve their craft and experienced professionals interested in refining their techniques. Through illustrations and step-by-step directions, it demystifies the complexities of watch staff and pivot creation, fostering a deeper understanding of this delicate art.
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