Custom Mechanical Watch Movement Servicing & Assembly Checklist

Precise mechanical watch servicing requires documented disassembly, correct oiling technique, and verified reassembly with timing and pressure testing.

Watchmaking hobbyists sometimes skip photographing before disassembly or misjudge oil amounts, making reassembly harder and potentially affecting the movement's long-term accuracy.

Why This Happens

Watch movements involve extremely small, precise components where a missed documentation step or slightly incorrect oil amount has an outsized effect on the final result.

What's Inside

This checklist is interactive, click to check off items in your browser, plus printable if you'd rather keep it at your workbench, and it covers movement cleaning, staking, oiling points, and pressure testing specific to precision horology, distinct from general craft checklists.

Quick Tips

Photograph the movement before disassembly for reference.

Apply correct oil amounts precisely to each point.

Pressure test after any case work, never assume water resistance.

Pairs well with: Custom Mechanical Keyboard Build Checklist, Hand Stitched Leathercraft Tool Setup Checklist

Frequently Asked Questions

Why photograph a movement before disassembly?

It provides an essential reference for correct reassembly, especially for less common calibers or complex complications.

How much oil should be applied to movement components?

Precise amounts specific to each point, following manufacturer or established watchmaking guidance, too much or too little both affect performance.

Should I always pressure test after service?

Yes, if water resistance is expected, testing confirms the case actually seals properly rather than assuming it based on the original spec.

What causes a balance wheel to not beat correctly after reassembly?

This can indicate a reassembly issue or component damage, checking beat rate and amplitude after service helps catch problems before the watch is returned to use.