Restoring a Vintage CWC Chronograph
Our fully equipped on-site watch workshop offers a full range of repairs – from smaller jobs like battery changes and glass replacements to full servicing of the vast majority of brands including Omega, Tag Heuer, Longines, Breitling, and Rolex, as well as vintage watch repairs. In this instance, we are working on what at first appears to be a military-issued CWC watch. CWC has a very interesting history supplying watches to MOD specifications for military personnel. However, this model was never actually issued – we can tell by the presence of the date display at 3 o’clock, demonstrating the version and authenticity of the vintage watch. Otherwise, it is almost identical to the non-date watches issued to RAF personnel.
“A watch’s history tells a story, but expert restoration ensures it continues ticking for generations to come.”
It’s a good quality mechanical watch, with the aforementioned date display and a 30-minute chronograph. The movement powering this vintage watch is the Valjoux 7765. These movements were manufactured between 1983-1998 and are very similar to the ubiquitous 7750 chronograph.
Repairing Water Damage and Replacing Components
On arrival with us, it was in very poor condition. There was significant water ingress, a missing pusher, and the chronograph seconds hands were completely bent and distorted. It needed a significant amount of work to get it back to excellent working order. Most old watches can be restored by expert watchmakers; learn more about our vintage watch repair service.
The water ingress had mostly affected parts involved in setting the hands and winding the watch – these include the ratchet wheel, crown wheel, clutch wheel, and winding pinion. These all needed to be replaced, along with various other components. It only takes a small amount of water damage to render a watch component unfit for purpose, so it is very important to avoid using a watch around water if it is not water-resistant. If you have a water-resistant model, you must avoid pressing pushers/adjusting the time when in water and ensure it is checked regularly to confirm it is still appropriately sealed.
“Even a small amount of water damage can render a watch component unfit for purpose—regular servicing is essential.”
Cleaning, Reassembly, and Final Testing
Once we have the movement fully disassembled and checked, the movement is cleaned – going through a manual cleaning process before a cycle in our Elma Solvex RM automatic cleaning machine. Once parts are completely clean and dried, we can commence reassembly of the movement. During reassembly, we followed our typical servicing procedure using the manufacturer’s technical guidelines in terms of oil and grease usage, as well as the use of other treatments such as epilame.
Alongside the work to the movement, we need to replace the missing pusher. We are able to source an original CWC pusher for this model, and this is fitted using a Horia 2015 tool – a very adaptable piece of kit, perfect for jobs like fitting pushers and tubes. The case is given a thorough ultrasonic clean before we can reunite all elements of the watch.
“Every serviced watch undergoes rigorous testing to guarantee accuracy, power reserve, and flawless chronograph functionality.”
With all works completed, we now test this excellent CWC chronograph to ensure good timekeeping within tolerance, appropriate power reserve, and the correct functioning of the chronograph. Once testing is complete, it is released ready for collection by our client. If you’re interested in the process of restoring vintage watches, or you have any questions about servicing your watch, contact us using our Ask the Watchmaker form.
Expert Vintage Watch Restoration at W.E. Clark & Son
At W.E. Clark & Son, our specialist watchmakers provide expert servicing, precision restoration and refurbishment for vintage watches and luxury timepieces. Recently, we fully restored a vintage CWC chronograph suffering from water damage, missing components, and mechanical wear. Using original parts and industry-leading techniques, we carefully repaired the movement, replaced worn elements, and conducted thorough testing to ensure accuracy and longevity.
If your timepiece needs servicing or restoration, contact us today or visit us in store to discuss how our expert team can bring your watch back to its best.
Need Your Vintage Watch Serviced or Repaired?
Take advantage of our Royal Mail Special Delivery FREEPOST service for a secure and hassle-free experience. Your watch is fully insured for up to £20,000 throughout its entire journey, from the moment it leaves your hands until it’s safely returned to you. Trust our expert watchmakers to restore your timepiece with precision and care.