Our fully equipped on-site watch workshop offers a full range of repairs – from smaller jobs like battery changes and glass replacements to full watch servicing of the vast majority of brands, including Omega, Tag Heuer, Longines, Breitling, and Rolex.
The Iconic Omega Speedmaster – The Moon Watch
For this job, we are working on an Omega Speedmaster, an Omega model we are experience in watch servicing. This is an iconic vintage watch model of Speedmaster, often referred to as the Moon Watch. It gained global recognition when it became the first watch worn on the moon during NASA’s Apollo 11 mission in 1969. The watch passed rigorous NASA testing, including resistance to extreme temperatures, shock, and vacuum conditions, proving its reliability in space. The original Moon Watch featured a manual-winding movement, the Calibre 321, which was later replaced by the Calibre 861, before, as found in this watch, the Calibre 1861 was used.
“The Omega Speedmaster Moon Watch is more than a timepiece—it’s a symbol of endurance, precision, and history. Rigorously tested by NASA and worn on the moon, its legacy continues through expert servicing and restoration, ensuring its reliability for generations to come.”
Diagnosing the Issue – A Broken Mainspring
The Calibre 1861 movement is a rhodium-plated version of the Calibre 861. It’s an 18-jewel mechanical chronograph movement of excellent quality. On arrival, our client’s watch can be wound indefinitely, giving a strong indication that the mainspring is broken.
To confirm our suspicions, we need to fully disassemble the movement, as the mainspring barrel is in the very depths of the mechanism. During disassembly, no major faults are found, just the usual signs of deterioration of old oils and greases. We first disassemble the chronograph mechanism, which then allows us access to the “base” movement. Once we reach the barrel and open the lid, we find the mainspring is indeed broken. This is no problem – we can fit a replacement mainspring after cleaning.
Cleaning and Reassembling the Movement
Once fully disassembled, the movement is cleaned – first going through a manual cleaning process before a cycle in our Elma Solvex RM automatic cleaning machine. When parts are completely clean and dried, we can commence reassembly. We follow the manufacturer’s technical guidelines for the correct usage and placement of oil and grease, as well as the use of other treatments such as epilame.
Case, Bracelet, and Final Testing
Alongside the movement servicing, we give the case and bracelet a thorough clean, give the bracelet a light refinish, and polish up the original Omega dome. We can now reunite all elements of the watch. With the movement refitted and everything checked on the timing machine, we close the case back before a final pressure test to confirm water resistance.
Returning the Restored Omega Speedmaster
With the works completed, we now test the watch to ensure it functions as expected before it is released for return to our client. After the testing period is complete, this fantastic Omega Speedmaster Moon Watch can be returned to our client.
We take great pride in restoring both vintage and modern timepieces from the world’s most esteemed brands, ensuring they receive the expert care and precision they deserve. Every watch holds a unique story, and we understand the significance of entrusting it to skilled hands. Our commitment to excellence means your cherished timepiece is maintained to the highest standards, preserving its legacy for years to come. If you own a vintage watch in need of repair or simply seek expert advice, we invite you to get in touch. Use our Ask the Watchmaker feature to connect with our knowledgeable team, who have extensive experience in restoring and servicing vintage timepieces. We would be delighted to assist you.
Summary:
At W.E. Clark Watch Repairs, our expert horologists deliver precision servicing for luxury timepieces. For this Omega Speedmaster Moon Watch, we diagnosed a broken mainspring, expertly disassembled and cleaned the movement, and performed a delicate reassembly following manufacturer guidelines. With advanced equipment and skilled techniques, we restored full functionality, refinished the case and bracelet, and conducted rigorous accuracy and water resistance tests before returning the watch to the client.
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