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Link Posted: 9/24/2014 10:13:51 AM EDT
[#1]

Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Originally Posted By Revelation68:
Now that is very cool!

Those Hamilton Electrics were cool enough, but an alpha case is icing on the cake.

Does it work?

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Originally Posted By Revelation68:



Originally Posted By 1387Delta:

I have to keep better track of what I have around here.  A $15.00 find at the local thrift shop.  I was really surprised to find this watch even though the dial isn't the original dial.  The original dial had the conference logo on it.  There is some guy on the internet trying to collect all 50 watches.



http://i62.tinypic.com/uldhz.jpg

http://i60.tinypic.com/jubdps.jpg

http://i62.tinypic.com/2d8m0c5.jpg



 




Now that is very cool!

Those Hamilton Electrics were cool enough, but an alpha case is icing on the cake.

Does it work?



Nope.  I have to send it in to Rene Rondeau for repair.  I think he said it would be around $200.00 to fix.  I haven't communicated with him for a couple of years so I hope he is still in business.



 
Link Posted: 9/24/2014 10:56:24 AM EDT
[#2]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Originally Posted By 1387Delta:

Nope.  I have to send it in to Rene Rondeau for repair.  I think he said it would be around $200.00 to fix.  I haven't communicated with him for a couple of years so I hope he is still in business.
 
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Originally Posted By 1387Delta:
Originally Posted By Revelation68:
Originally Posted By 1387Delta:
I have to keep better track of what I have around here.  A $15.00 find at the local thrift shop.  I was really surprised to find this watch even though the dial isn't the original dial.  The original dial had the conference logo on it.  There is some guy on the internet trying to collect all 50 watches.

http://i62.tinypic.com/uldhz.jpg
http://i60.tinypic.com/jubdps.jpg
http://i62.tinypic.com/2d8m0c5.jpg

 


Now that is very cool!
Those Hamilton Electrics were cool enough, but an alpha case is icing on the cake.
Does it work?

Nope.  I have to send it in to Rene Rondeau for repair.  I think he said it would be around $200.00 to fix.  I haven't communicated with him for a couple of years so I hope he is still in business.
 


If he is not, I think I have a contact that can repair it for the same or less, if you run into that; if so, just let me know!
Link Posted: 9/24/2014 11:18:36 AM EDT
[#3]

Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Originally Posted By Revelation68:
If he is not, I think I have a contact that can repair it for the same or less, if you run into that; if so, just let me know!
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Originally Posted By Revelation68:



Originally Posted By 1387Delta:


Originally Posted By Revelation68:


Originally Posted By 1387Delta:

I have to keep better track of what I have around here.  A $15.00 find at the local thrift shop.  I was really surprised to find this watch even though the dial isn't the original dial.  The original dial had the conference logo on it.  There is some guy on the internet trying to collect all 50 watches.



http://i62.tinypic.com/uldhz.jpg

http://i60.tinypic.com/jubdps.jpg

http://i62.tinypic.com/2d8m0c5.jpg



 




Now that is very cool!

Those Hamilton Electrics were cool enough, but an alpha case is icing on the cake.

Does it work?



Nope.  I have to send it in to Rene Rondeau for repair.  I think he said it would be around $200.00 to fix.  I haven't communicated with him for a couple of years so I hope he is still in business.

 




If he is not, I think I have a contact that can repair it for the same or less, if you run into that; if so, just let me know!


Will do. Thanks!



 
Link Posted: 9/24/2014 4:18:11 PM EDT
[#4]
My Grandfather's 1965 Omega Seamaster Deville



and an old RR watch

Link Posted: 9/24/2014 4:56:05 PM EDT
[#5]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Originally Posted By jsuevo:
My Grandfather's 1965 Omega Seamaster Deville

<a href="http://s1229.photobucket.com/user/09flhx12601/media/Omega_2.jpg.html" target="_blank">http://i1229.photobucket.com/albums/ee475/09flhx12601/Omega_2.jpg</a>

and an old RR watch

<a href="http://s1229.photobucket.com/user/09flhx12601/media/Ingraham_1.jpg.html" target="_blank">http://i1229.photobucket.com/albums/ee475/09flhx12601/Ingraham_1.jpg</a>
View Quote


Awesome! Both of those are definitely "keepers". Family watches are about as good as it gets in my mind.
Link Posted: 9/24/2014 8:18:00 PM EDT
[Last Edit: Chris94L] [#6]


Bulova AeroJet Automatic. From what I have found they made them from 1965-67. It was my Grandfather's watch and the only one I can ever remember him wearing. It had a stretchy metal bracelet on it, has a cheapy leather band now. Need to have it cleaned and possibly repaired then find a nicer band.
Link Posted: 9/24/2014 8:28:09 PM EDT
[#7]
Great model! Shouldn't be a problem for a good, old watchmaker to give it a service.
If you need help getting it done reasonably, just let me know.
Link Posted: 9/26/2014 11:12:32 AM EDT
[Last Edit: grumpy-old-man] [#8]
Here's today's offering .......

A Glycine, WW2 era Wehrmacht Uhr.

Made in the early 1940s and purchased for issue primarily to officers or senior NCOs.

The case back is marked, in German, indicating that the back is stainless steel and the watch is (was) waterproof.

The serial number has a D prefix Dienstuhr, meaning service watch and an H suffix, Heer, meaning army.
A description and serial number of the watch was recorded in the soldier's record, and the watch was expected to be returned when the soldier's term of service ended.

My dad acquired the watch during WW2, and as you can see, it's been worn under less than ideal conditions.
ETA: My dad was in the American army.

The watchmaker at my local Rolex AD cleaned, serviced and regulated the watch, and after 70 years, it's running like new again.

Now, I need to get a leather band for it, although I doubt that the watch will be worn much, if at all.

</a>" />
Link Posted: 9/26/2014 11:23:46 AM EDT
[#9]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Originally Posted By grumpy-old-man:
Here's today's offering .......

A Glycine, WW2 era Wehrmacht Uhr.

Made in the early 1940s and purchased for issue primarily to officers or senior NCOs.

The case back is marked, in German, indicating that the back is stainless steel and the watch is (was) waterproof.

The serial number has a D prefix Dienstuhr, meaning service watch and an H suffix, Heer, meaning army.
A description and serial number of the watch was recorded in the soldier's record, and the watch was expected to be returned when the soldier's term of service ended.

My dad acquired the watch during WW2, and as you can see, it's been worn under less than ideal conditions.

The watchmaker at my local Rolex AD cleaned, serviced and regulated the watch, and after 70 years, it's running like new again.

Now, I need to get a leather band for it, although I doubt that the watch will be worn much, if at all.

http://<a href=http://i181.photobucket.com/albums/x106/Yeti47/Glycinecrop.jpg</a>" />
View Quote


What a great model, and with a story behind it to boot!
I've got a WWII Hamilton and Waltham military watch that I'm getting back up to speed, myself. They should just need new crystals and bands; I'd really like to pickup an Elgin and Bulova model and have the American "service" group primarily covered. Great watches, though!

Post a picture when you get it on a band!
Link Posted: 9/28/2014 8:23:39 PM EDT
[#10]
Here are my ORD Waltham and Hamilton.
Debating on whether to change the old Waltham crystal...



Link Posted: 9/29/2014 8:57:16 AM EDT
[#11]
Another Seiko Auto find at a flea market on Saturday.



It was ugly, dirty, crystal scratched up badly, no strap just laying there with a bunch of junky Chinese watches. I picked it up and asked how much...50 cents.



Some major cleaning, polishing of the crystal and a new strap and it looks much better and runs great. I wore it yesterday.



Sort of a rare movement, a 6118, made Sept 1975. The picture doesn't show the face color well, it's sort of a gold sunburst.





If anyone else is interested in dating Seiko watches, here's a link. The other Seiko I posted here is just 6 months older than this one, made Feb 1974.

http://www.csce.uark.edu/~jgauch/photos/seiko/

Link Posted: 9/29/2014 10:19:31 AM EDT
[#12]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Originally Posted By Revelation68:
Here are my ORD Waltham and Hamilton.
Debating on whether to change the old Waltham crystal...

<a href="http://s1284.photobucket.com/user/buyingontime/media/Waltham/IMG_20140926_114051_zpsupbqjis1.jpg.html" target="_blank">http://i1284.photobucket.com/albums/a572/buyingontime/Waltham/IMG_20140926_114051_zpsupbqjis1.jpg</a>

<a href="http://s1284.photobucket.com/user/buyingontime/media/Hamilton/IMG_20140510_101423398_zpsyhggf5qy.jpg.html" target="_blank">http://i1284.photobucket.com/albums/a572/buyingontime/Hamilton/IMG_20140510_101423398_zpsyhggf5qy.jpg</a>
View Quote


Nice.  That Hamilton has been well worn.

Don't think that changing the Waltham's crystal would do it any harm.

Small second dials seem to have been very popular back in the day.
Link Posted: 9/29/2014 10:23:22 AM EDT
[#13]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Originally Posted By OlCrow:
Another Seiko Auto find at a flea market on Saturday.

It was ugly, dirty, crystal scratched up badly, no strap just laying there with a bunch of junky Chinese watches. I picked it up and asked how much...50 cents.

Some major cleaning, polishing of the crystal and a new strap and it looks much better and runs great. I wore it yesterday.

Sort of a rare movement, a 6118, made Sept 1975. The picture doesn't show the face color well, it's sort of a gold sunburst.
http://4-riders.com/pics/watches/Seiko6118Automatic001.jpg

If anyone else is interested in dating Seiko watches, here's a link. The other Seiko I posted here is just 6 months older than this one, made Feb 1974.
http://www.csce.uark.edu/~jgauch/photos/seiko/



View Quote


50 cents!  Now, that's a deal!

That SEIKO date site is good to go.  I used it to date the burgundy dial SEIKO that I posted a few days ago.
Link Posted: 9/29/2014 10:38:36 AM EDT
[#14]

Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Originally Posted By grumpy-old-man:
50 cents!  Now, that's a deal!



That SEIKO date site is good to go.  I used it to date the burgundy dial SEIKO that I posted a few days ago.

View Quote View All Quotes
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Originally Posted By grumpy-old-man:



Originally Posted By OlCrow:

Another Seiko Auto find at a flea market on Saturday.



It was ugly, dirty, crystal scratched up badly, no strap just laying there with a bunch of junky Chinese watches. I picked it up and asked how much...50 cents.



Some major cleaning, polishing of the crystal and a new strap and it looks much better and runs great. I wore it yesterday.



Sort of a rare movement, a 6118, made Sept 1975. The picture doesn't show the face color well, it's sort of a gold sunburst.

http://4-riders.com/pics/watches/Seiko6118Automatic001.jpg



If anyone else is interested in dating Seiko watches, here's a link. The other Seiko I posted here is just 6 months older than this one, made Feb 1974.

http://www.csce.uark.edu/~jgauch/photos/seiko/




50 cents!  Now, that's a deal!



That SEIKO date site is good to go.  I used it to date the burgundy dial SEIKO that I posted a few days ago.



Won't date mine...



 
Link Posted: 9/29/2014 11:31:52 AM EDT
[Last Edit: grumpy-old-man] [#15]
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Originally Posted By 1387Delta:

Won't date mine...
 
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Originally Posted By 1387Delta:
Originally Posted By grumpy-old-man:
Originally Posted By OlCrow:
Another Seiko Auto find at a flea market on Saturday.

It was ugly, dirty, crystal scratched up badly, no strap just laying there with a bunch of junky Chinese watches. I picked it up and asked how much...50 cents.

Some major cleaning, polishing of the crystal and a new strap and it looks much better and runs great. I wore it yesterday.

Sort of a rare movement, a 6118, made Sept 1975. The picture doesn't show the face color well, it's sort of a gold sunburst.
http://4-riders.com/pics/watches/Seiko6118Automatic001.jpg

If anyone else is interested in dating Seiko watches, here's a link. The other Seiko I posted here is just 6 months older than this one, made Feb 1974.
http://www.csce.uark.edu/~jgauch/photos/seiko/






50 cents!  Now, that's a deal!

That SEIKO date site is good to go.  I used it to date the burgundy dial SEIKO that I posted a few days ago.

Won't date mine...
 


Just tried to run my wife's Seiko quartz - no joy.  Watch is probably 30 years old ~.
Ran my old automatic and the date popped right up.

Disclaimer on the site seem to indicate that they don't have the manufacture dates for all movements.
Link Posted: 9/29/2014 12:43:13 PM EDT
[Last Edit: OlCrow] [#16]
The problem a lot of the time dating Seiko's from the movement and serial number is because Seiko doesn't give a complete year in the serial number. You have to know or figure out what decade the watch was made if the dating website can't give you a date.





Serial number for mine above;





426932





4 is the year


2 is the month





4 - it could be any year ending in 4, but the movement number tells it was made in the 1970's so it's a 1974.





2 - February.





Why they don't use a full year code, I don't know.





How this works if a movement is used for more than 10 years, again I don't know.





Here's a list of Seiko movements and when they were introduced that helps.


http://www.csce.uark.edu/~jgauch/photos/seiko/table.txt




 
Link Posted: 9/29/2014 1:04:25 PM EDT
[Last Edit: grumpy-old-man] [#17]
The wife's SEIKO quartz has 3E23 for a movement number.  Serial number is 983692.

The watch was originally purchased for my mother, probably 35 years ago.  
That being the case, and based upon your serial number break down, August of 1979 sounds about right.

SEIKO still makes a model that looks pretty much exactly like the wife's watch.  Must have been popular.

A Google search of the movement number shows it used in all kinds of women's time pieces.
Link Posted: 9/29/2014 1:25:51 PM EDT
[#18]
I dated my Seiko.  I was confused because it said to enter the 4 digit movement number.  The movement number only had 2 digits and when I entered only the two digits, it worked.  October 1962.
Link Posted: 9/29/2014 2:17:28 PM EDT
[Last Edit: grumpy-old-man] [#19]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Originally Posted By 1387Delta:
I dated my Seiko.  I was confused because it said to enter the 4 digit movement number.  The movement number only had 2 digits and when I entered only the two digits, it worked.  October 1962.
View Quote


That makes it almost exactly 10 years older than the one I posted (Nov., 1972).
Link Posted: 10/1/2014 10:31:01 AM EDT
[#20]

Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Originally Posted By Revelation68:
If he is not, I think I have a contact that can repair it for the same or less, if you run into that; if so, just let me know!
View Quote View All Quotes
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Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Originally Posted By Revelation68:



Originally Posted By 1387Delta:


Originally Posted By Revelation68:


Originally Posted By 1387Delta:

I have to keep better track of what I have around here.  A $15.00 find at the local thrift shop.  I was really surprised to find this watch even though the dial isn't the original dial.  The original dial had the conference logo on it.  There is some guy on the internet trying to collect all 50 watches.



http://i62.tinypic.com/uldhz.jpg

http://i60.tinypic.com/jubdps.jpg

http://i62.tinypic.com/2d8m0c5.jpg



 




Now that is very cool!

Those Hamilton Electrics were cool enough, but an alpha case is icing on the cake.

Does it work?



Nope.  I have to send it in to Rene Rondeau for repair.  I think he said it would be around $200.00 to fix.  I haven't communicated with him for a couple of years so I hope he is still in business.

 




If he is not, I think I have a contact that can repair it for the same or less, if you run into that; if so, just let me know!


PM me the contact info please.  Thanks



 
Link Posted: 10/1/2014 12:42:13 PM EDT
[Last Edit: Revelation68] [#21]
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Originally Posted By 1387Delta:

PM me the contact info please.  Thanks
 
View Quote


Sending you one now...

Did you get it?
Link Posted: 10/1/2014 12:54:31 PM EDT
[#22]

Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Originally Posted By Revelation68:
Sending you one now...



Did you get it?
View Quote View All Quotes
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Originally Posted By Revelation68:



Originally Posted By 1387Delta:



PM me the contact info please.  Thanks

 




Sending you one now...



Did you get it?


Yes I did, thanks.  Here is his email, which is a little too pricey for me.




I received your watch
today. This has one very serious problem: the coil on the balance has an open
circuit. There is no way to repair a dead coil so the only option is to replace
the entire balance assembly. This is unfortunately a very rare and consequently
expensive part today. My estimate follows below.





============


RESTORATION ESTIMATE





RE: Hamilton "Sea-Lectric II" Electric Model 505, serial #P586879





Replace balance/coil assembly: 125.00


Overhaul and adjustment:    $325.00


Refinish dial:  85.00


Replace crystal: 15.00


New genuine lizard strap: 32.00


Priority Mail and insurance:        
13.00


TOTAL:            $595.00





Overhaul includes complete disassembly, replacement of worn contacts with
new-old-stock gold factory parts, ultrasonic cleaning, adjustment to original
factory specifications, and installation of a new battery.  All work is
warranted in writing for six months. (See www.hamiltonwristwatch.com/restore.html
for details.)





      Estimated repair time: 12-14 weeks.
 










 
Link Posted: 10/1/2014 2:12:47 PM EDT
[#23]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Originally Posted By 1387Delta:

Yes I did, thanks.  Here is his email, which is a little too pricey for me.

I received your watchtoday. This has one very serious problem: the coil on the balance has an opencircuit. There is no way to repair a dead coil so the only option is to replacethe entire balance assembly. This is unfortunately a very rare and consequentlyexpensive part today. My estimate follows below.

============
RESTORATION ESTIMATE

RE: Hamilton "Sea-Lectric II" Electric Model 505, serial #P586879

Replace balance/coil assembly: 125.00
Overhaul and adjustment:    $325.00
Refinish dial:  85.00
Replace crystal: 15.00
New genuine lizard strap: 32.00
Priority Mail and insurance:         13.00
TOTAL:            $595.00

Overhaul includes complete disassembly, replacement of worn contacts withnew-old-stock gold factory parts, ultrasonic cleaning, adjustment to originalfactory specifications, and installation of a new battery.  All work iswarranted in writing for six months. (See www.hamiltonwristwatch.com/restore.htmlfor details.)

      Estimated repair time: 12-14 weeks.  


 
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Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Originally Posted By 1387Delta:
Originally Posted By Revelation68:
Originally Posted By 1387Delta:

PM me the contact info please.  Thanks
 


Sending you one now...

Did you get it?

Yes I did, thanks.  Here is his email, which is a little too pricey for me.

I received your watchtoday. This has one very serious problem: the coil on the balance has an opencircuit. There is no way to repair a dead coil so the only option is to replacethe entire balance assembly. This is unfortunately a very rare and consequentlyexpensive part today. My estimate follows below.

============
RESTORATION ESTIMATE

RE: Hamilton "Sea-Lectric II" Electric Model 505, serial #P586879

Replace balance/coil assembly: 125.00
Overhaul and adjustment:    $325.00
Refinish dial:  85.00
Replace crystal: 15.00
New genuine lizard strap: 32.00
Priority Mail and insurance:         13.00
TOTAL:            $595.00

Overhaul includes complete disassembly, replacement of worn contacts withnew-old-stock gold factory parts, ultrasonic cleaning, adjustment to originalfactory specifications, and installation of a new battery.  All work iswarranted in writing for six months. (See www.hamiltonwristwatch.com/restore.htmlfor details.)

      Estimated repair time: 12-14 weeks.  


 


Oh shoot...I had Accutron on the brain. I'm sorry, man.
He is one of the only ones I know about who does Hamilton electrics, too, though.

They are a classic and collectible watches. Unfortunately, even to my dismay, you're seeming why they can be a pain to own.
They weren't made near as well and built for longevity as the Accutrons. They are awesome watches...but that's what I've gathered/my watchmaker has shared with me.
Link Posted: 10/2/2014 10:39:08 PM EDT
[#24]
There was a request for me to post about my 60's alarm watches, so I'll try to show them and expand on alarm watches, slightly...

Here is the Gruen:



And here are the two Benrus', in stainless and gold:



(All pictures after this point are not mine.)

Many of the alarm watches use the Adolph Schild 1475 movement. This tends to be the most common motor for the pieces in the 60's time period.
The movements look like this:



At about "2 o'clock" you can see the darker piece that literally hammers against the case to make the alarm sound!
This Schild movement operates by the lower crown being used to set and wind the watch, like a normal crown at 3 o'clock; the upper crown winds the second mainspring when closed, and when pulled out is used to set the alarm time and "turns the alarm on", so to speak.
These watches were made from 1954-1960, and, along with being the most common, were the basis for other alarm watches like that of Citizen and Poljot (Russian).

Here is a video of it going off that I just took for you all:



http://vid1284.photobucket.com/albums/a572/buyingontime/Gruen/VID_20141002_221610314_zpsuzknutt8.mp4

There are other alarm watches/movements, though...

Jaegar LeCoultre Memovox is one of the most cherished:





The Vulcain Cricket is another well sought after model:





There were also some older variants, like this one some vintage Bulovas showcased, which is a German Junghans 89 caliber:





Anyway, hope this is slightly entertaining to folks. We can discuss it more if anyone is interested!
Link Posted: 10/3/2014 9:53:59 AM EDT
[#25]
Those are fantastic watches!  Thanks for the write-up.

I've seen only one alarm wristwatch in the wild, and that was years ago.

How long have you been collecting the vintage watches, and where do you find such nice examples?
No need to reveal your sources, just find it amazing that a couple guys here have amassed such nice collections.
Link Posted: 10/3/2014 10:24:55 AM EDT
[#26]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Originally Posted By grumpy-old-man:
Those are fantastic watches!  Thanks for the write-up.

I've seen only one alarm wristwatch in the wild, and that was years ago.

How long have you been collecting the vintage watches, and where do you find such nice examples?
No need to reveal your sources, just find it amazing that a couple guys here have amassed such nice collections.
View Quote


Thanks -- I'm just glad it's interesting to someone else!

Remember, just those first three watches (Gruen and two Benrus) are mine + the video I posted. So I definitely don't own all those...would be nice! Ha.

I have been collecting watches for about a year and a half, maybe a little more. I get most of my watches from eBay, but it just takes the experience of getting some good and some bad pieces to find your way through; after a while, you kind of know more what to look for and for how much. I'd say a good bit of my collection is $80/piece and under. Quite a bit were probably under $50, truth be told.

I'm just wearing a Benrus I picked up today, and I think I paid about $35 for it. Keeps great time, but has the incorrect crown and re-lumed hands. Things that can be changed, no big deal. Key for me is the dial, foremost usually.
Link Posted: 10/11/2014 3:44:22 PM EDT
[#27]
My Grandfather's Hamilton Railway Special



My Grandmother's Elgin




I have a few more my Mom sent me but haven't got any pictures yet.
Link Posted: 10/12/2014 12:19:54 AM EDT
[#28]
Great looking pocket watches you have!
Always great to see those crafted pieces.
Link Posted: 10/13/2014 1:28:13 AM EDT
[#29]
Here are the other two of my Grandfather's watches.  Both are simple movements and are generally limited service.  Disposable for their time I guess.  The one with the fob still runs and is dated on the movement 1936.





Link Posted: 10/14/2014 11:27:10 PM EDT
[Last Edit: OlCrow] [#30]
I found a Timex Dynabeat last weekend at a flea market to complete the three types of Timex "electric" watches I own. I'm sure I'll buy more since they are inexpensive and boring to all but a few. I find the movements in these watches interesting.
More info if interested;



http://electric-watches.co.uk/makers/timex/
The first was the "Electric" in 1963 after Timex acquired LACO in Germany and their know how to build it.
Next came the "Electronic", mine below was made in 1973, was about as accurate as the Electric but used micro circuitry and was more reliable.
Then the "Dynabeat" made in the later 1970's, a little more refined and they upped the beats per hour from 21,600 to 28,800 making it more accurate and a smoother sweep of the seconds hand.
Here's all three, the Electric (left rear), the Dynabeat (right rear) and the Electronic (front).



I've owned the Electronic since 1973, the other two were in bad condition, crystals badly scratched but they run great after a fresh battery was installed. I cleaned and polished them up, cleaned the bands in my ultrasonic cleaner and polished all the scratches and gouges out of the acrylic crystals with a high speed buffer and polishing compound this evening. The crystals look like new again, that is the one good thing about acrylic crystals, you can make then look new again.







 
Link Posted: 10/15/2014 10:13:48 PM EDT
[#31]
Nice pocket watches, MyFakeName!

Do you know what years those are?
If not, I'm sure we can help determine that for you -- if you're interested.
Link Posted: 10/15/2014 10:20:21 PM EDT
[Last Edit: Revelation68] [#32]
Awesome, OlCrow! I have a handful of Timex's, although mainly older 1950's models. However I do have an Electric Skin Diver and a Dynabeat, myself.
I'll post up a video I took for some folks of the 8bps Dynabeat shortly...

EDIT:
Link Posted: 10/15/2014 11:42:59 PM EDT
[#33]
Recently got a new crown and crystal on my 1942 Hamilton ORD watch. Here you can see the difference beside my modern Pilot Pioneer:

Link Posted: 10/16/2014 10:17:22 AM EDT
[Last Edit: grumpy-old-man] [#34]
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Link to info about your grand dad's pocket watch: http://kenrockwell.com/watches/hamilton/992b.htm

A VERY nice watch, by the way.
Link Posted: 10/16/2014 10:18:16 AM EDT
[#35]
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Originally Posted By Revelation68:
Recently got a new crown and crystal on my 1942 Hamilton ORD watch. Here you can see the difference beside my modern Pilot Pioneer:

<a href="http://s1284.photobucket.com/user/buyingontime/media/Hamilton/IMG_20141015_185318_zpsbiwmd6hv.jpg.html" target="_blank">http://i1284.photobucket.com/albums/a572/buyingontime/Hamilton/IMG_20141015_185318_zpsbiwmd6hv.jpg</a>
View Quote


Nice! Interesting to see the two watches side-by-side.
Link Posted: 10/16/2014 10:54:23 AM EDT
[#36]
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Originally Posted By grumpy-old-man:


Nice! Interesting to see the two watches side-by-side.
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Originally Posted By grumpy-old-man:
Originally Posted By Revelation68:
Recently got a new crown and crystal on my 1942 Hamilton ORD watch. Here you can see the difference beside my modern Pilot Pioneer:

<a href="http://s1284.photobucket.com/user/buyingontime/media/Hamilton/IMG_20141015_185318_zpsbiwmd6hv.jpg.html" target="_blank">http://i1284.photobucket.com/albums/a572/buyingontime/Hamilton/IMG_20141015_185318_zpsbiwmd6hv.jpg</a>


Nice! Interesting to see the two watches side-by-side.


I figured at least 1 other person would appreciate it.
Link Posted: 10/16/2014 2:52:41 PM EDT
[#37]

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Originally Posted By Revelation68:
I figured at least 1 other person would appreciate it.
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Originally Posted By Revelation68:



Originally Posted By grumpy-old-man:


Originally Posted By Revelation68:

Recently got a new crown and crystal on my 1942 Hamilton ORD watch. Here you can see the difference beside my modern Pilot Pioneer:



<a href="http://s1284.photobucket.com/user/buyingontime/media/Hamilton/IMG_20141015_185318_zpsbiwmd6hv.jpg.html" target="_blank">http://i1284.photobucket.com/albums/a572/buyingontime/Hamilton/IMG_20141015_185318_zpsbiwmd6hv.jpg</a>




Nice! Interesting to see the two watches side-by-side.





I figured at least 1 other person would appreciate it.


Sorry, I should have taken the time to say how much I like them both, would have a hard time picking one or the other. Been busy, I just jump in and out quickly when I have a few minutes.



 
Link Posted: 10/16/2014 3:01:04 PM EDT
[#38]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Originally Posted By Revelation68:
Recently got a new crown and crystal on my 1942 Hamilton ORD watch. Here you can see the difference beside my modern Pilot Pioneer:

<a href="http://s1284.photobucket.com/user/buyingontime/media/Hamilton/IMG_20141015_185318_zpsbiwmd6hv.jpg.html" target="_blank">http://i1284.photobucket.com/albums/a572/buyingontime/Hamilton/IMG_20141015_185318_zpsbiwmd6hv.jpg</a>
View Quote


Cool

What are the sizes?
Link Posted: 10/16/2014 5:29:54 PM EDT
[Last Edit: Revelation68] [#39]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Originally Posted By OlCrow:

Sorry, I should have taken the time to say how much I like them both, would have a hard time picking one or the other. Been busy, I just jump in and out quickly when I have a few minutes.
 
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Originally Posted By OlCrow:
Originally Posted By Revelation68:
Originally Posted By grumpy-old-man:
Originally Posted By Revelation68:
Recently got a new crown and crystal on my 1942 Hamilton ORD watch. Here you can see the difference beside my modern Pilot Pioneer:

<a href="http://s1284.photobucket.com/user/buyingontime/media/Hamilton/IMG_20141015_185318_zpsbiwmd6hv.jpg.html" target="_blank">http://i1284.photobucket.com/albums/a572/buyingontime/Hamilton/IMG_20141015_185318_zpsbiwmd6hv.jpg</a>


Nice! Interesting to see the two watches side-by-side.


I figured at least 1 other person would appreciate it.

Sorry, I should have taken the time to say how much I like them both, would have a hard time picking one or the other. Been busy, I just jump in and out quickly when I have a few minutes.
 


Oh, no worries, buddy!
I wasn't literally saying no one else appreciates it. I should have rephrased that.
I just meant there are a lot of folks who would think the little WWII watch (if they didn't know what it was) looked like a small woman's watch. Haha

PS - I hope you saw my response to your Timex watches. I really like those - and you did a dang good job on cleaning those up. Sometimes I don't know how I'd get along without my crystal polish and my ultrasonic cleaner...


Jk. But really...they are great.
Link Posted: 10/16/2014 5:31:13 PM EDT
[#40]
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Originally Posted By basselope22:


Cool

What are the sizes?
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Originally Posted By basselope22:
Originally Posted By Revelation68:
Recently got a new crown and crystal on my 1942 Hamilton ORD watch. Here you can see the difference beside my modern Pilot Pioneer:

<a href="http://s1284.photobucket.com/user/buyingontime/media/Hamilton/IMG_20141015_185318_zpsbiwmd6hv.jpg.html" target="_blank">http://i1284.photobucket.com/albums/a572/buyingontime/Hamilton/IMG_20141015_185318_zpsbiwmd6hv.jpg</a>


Cool

What are the sizes?


Thanks, man!
The Pilot Pioneer is about 43mm sans crown, with 22mm lugs.
The ORD is about 30mm sans crown with 16mm lugs.

My how the times have changed.
Link Posted: 10/16/2014 9:32:32 PM EDT
[#41]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Originally Posted By Revelation68:


Thanks, man!
The Pilot Pioneer is about 43mm sans crown, with 22mm lugs.
The ORD is about 30mm sans crown with 16mm lugs.

My how the times have changed.
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Originally Posted By Revelation68:
Originally Posted By basselope22:
Originally Posted By Revelation68:
Recently got a new crown and crystal on my 1942 Hamilton ORD watch. Here you can see the difference beside my modern Pilot Pioneer:

<a href="http://s1284.photobucket.com/user/buyingontime/media/Hamilton/IMG_20141015_185318_zpsbiwmd6hv.jpg.html" target="_blank">http://i1284.photobucket.com/albums/a572/buyingontime/Hamilton/IMG_20141015_185318_zpsbiwmd6hv.jpg</a>


Cool

What are the sizes?


Thanks, man!
The Pilot Pioneer is about 43mm sans crown, with 22mm lugs.
The ORD is about 30mm sans crown with 16mm lugs.

My how the times have changed.


Yeah it's funny how that happens.  I'm sure some day people will be looking at our watches wondering how we wore something "so huge."
Link Posted: 10/16/2014 11:55:28 PM EDT
[#42]
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Originally Posted By basselope22:


Yeah it's funny how that happens.  I'm sure some day people will be looking at our watches wondering how we wore something "so huge."
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Originally Posted By basselope22:
Originally Posted By Revelation68:

Thanks, man!
The Pilot Pioneer is about 43mm sans crown, with 22mm lugs.
The ORD is about 30mm sans crown with 16mm lugs.

My how the times have changed.


Yeah it's funny how that happens.  I'm sure some day people will be looking at our watches wondering how we wore something "so huge."


I think you're right!
All the old stuff will come back in style again, or something like it. That Hamilton I have is about as big as I can manage.
If I didn't really like it and it didn't feel so good to wear...I certainly wouldn't have one quite as big. But 41-43 is around the bottom to middle of most of the popular style new watches out there these days.
What can ya do?
Link Posted: 10/20/2014 3:49:40 PM EDT
[Last Edit: grumpy-old-man] [#43]
Well, I finally found my old, ZODIAC Seawolf!!!

I purchased the watch NIB in 1964.  A dive shop that I frequented had three or four in the case, all marked down to $65.00 - I dug deep, and in a few days, wore the watch home.
It came with the proper box and paperwork (long gone) and originally had the Oyster style bracelet with expansion links.

I dove with the watch for a number of years, wore it the entire time I was in the army and finally, for a number of years as an LEO.
The watch is pretty beat up, looks like it's been through a war (it has), but continued to run and keep decent time up until the day I retired it.  It's been sitting idle for around 40 years.

The crown is "frozen" and will not move.  I don't want to force it.  I'm assuming that dried crud or degraded gaskets/o-rings are the cause.
Even with the cracked crystal, it always maintained water resistance, however, I stopped using it as a dive watch long before it was retired.
If I shake the watch for a bit, the rotor will wind the main spring enough for the watch to run for a little while.  The ol' girl still has heart!

The Seawolf was a very popular dive watch.  Surprisingly, even with a snap on case back and the lack of a screw down crown, it was rated for a depth of 20 ATM (660').
I never heard of one springing a leak.

Link to an informative article: http://wornandwound.com/2014/02/14/affordable-vintage-zodiac-sea-wolf/

</a>" />
Link Posted: 10/20/2014 5:54:17 PM EDT
[#44]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Originally Posted By grumpy-old-man:
Well, I finally found my old, ZODIAC Seawolf!!!

I purchased the watch NIB in 1964.  A dive shop that I frequented had three or four in the case, all marked down to $65.00 - I dug deep, and in a few days, wore the watch home.
It came with the proper box and paperwork (long gone) and originally had the Oyster style bracelet with expansion links.

I dove with the watch for a number of years, wore it the entire time I was in the army and finally, for a number of years as an LEO.
The watch is pretty beat up, looks like it's been through a war (it has), but continued to run and keep decent time up until the day I retired it.  It's been sitting idle for around 40 years.

The crown is "frozen" and will not move.  I don't want to force it.  I'm assuming that dried crud or degraded gaskets/o-rings are the cause.
Even with the cracked crystal, it always maintained water resistance, however, I stopped using it as a dive watch long before it was retired.
If I shake the watch for a bit, the rotor will wind the main spring enough for the watch to run for a little while.  The ol' girl still has heart!

The Seawolf was a very popular dive watch.  Surprisingly, even with a snap on case back and the lack of a screw down crown, it was rated for a depth of 20 ATM (660').
I never heard of one springing a leak.

Link to an informative article: http://wornandwound.com/2014/02/14/affordable-vintage-zodiac-sea-wolf/

http://<a href=http://i181.photobucket.com/albums/x106/Yeti47/Zodiaccrop1.jpg</a>" />
View Quote


Very very cool.  Great history.  I would love to find one of those.
Link Posted: 10/20/2014 9:03:09 PM EDT
[#45]
Wow, how cool!
I've seen a handful of them around, but they are pretty few and far between.
Any interest in getting that thing going again eventually?
Link Posted: 10/21/2014 10:30:15 AM EDT
[Last Edit: grumpy-old-man] [#46]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Originally Posted By Revelation68:
Wow, how cool!
I've seen a handful of them around, but they are pretty few and far between.
Any interest in getting that thing going again eventually?
View Quote


I've given it some thought, but repairs are pricey, very few people work on the old Zodiacs and some parts are impossible to obtain.
One site I visited advised that there is a guy who specializes in these old watches.  
Cost to repair/restore would run $600.00 plus, and it would no longer be rated as water resistant.

I think I'll put that $600.00 toward the reissue of the Seawolf which should be available in Spring/Summer of 2015.

I'll install new spring bars, reinstall the beat up bracelet and return my ol' companion to a quiet retirement.
Link Posted: 10/21/2014 10:31:22 AM EDT
[#47]

Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Originally Posted By grumpy-old-man:


Well, I finally found my old, ZODIAC Seawolf!!!



I purchased the watch NIB in 1964.  A dive shop that I frequented had three or four in the case, all marked down to $65.00 - I dug deep, and in a few days, wore the watch home.

It came with the proper box and paperwork (long gone) and originally had the Oyster style bracelet with expansion links.



I dove with the watch for a number of years, wore it the entire time I was in the army and finally, for a number of years as an LEO.

The watch is pretty beat up, looks like it's been through a war (it has), but continued to run and keep decent time up until the day I retired it.  It's been sitting idle for around 40 years.



The crown is "frozen" and will not move.  I don't want to force it.  I'm assuming that dried crud or degraded gaskets/o-rings are the cause.

Even with the cracked crystal, it always maintained water resistance, however, I stopped using it as a dive watch long before it was retired.

If I shake the watch for a bit, the rotor will wind the main spring enough for the watch to run for a little while.  The ol' girl still has heart!



The Seawolf was a very popular dive watch.  Surprisingly, even with a snap on case back and the lack of a screw down crown, it was rated for a depth of 20 ATM (660').

I never heard of one springing a leak.



Link to an informative article: http://wornandwound.com/2014/02/14/affordable-vintage-zodiac-sea-wolf/



http://<a href=http://i181.photobucket.com/albums/x106/Yeti47/Zodiaccrop1.jpg</a>" />

View Quote


I love the "patina" on that one!



I wish I owned a watch that I had worn for that many years doing all the things you did while wearing it. I think that is a thing of beauty. You have to enjoy looking at it and knowing that you put every mark on it. Very cool.



I hope you have someone to pass that one down to someday. I have a few of my grandfathers and my fathers watches that are very worn and I would never even think of polishing away one single mark on them, I love them just they way they are.



 
Link Posted: 10/21/2014 10:42:03 AM EDT
[#48]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Originally Posted By OlCrow:

I love the "patina" on that one!

I wish I owned a watch that I had worn for that many years doing all the things you did while wearing it. I think that is a thing of beauty. You have to enjoy looking at it and knowing that you put every mark on it. Very cool.

I hope you have someone to pass that one down to someday. I have a few of my grandfathers and my fathers watches that are very worn and I would never even think of polishing away one single mark on them, I love them just they way they are.
 
View Quote View All Quotes
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Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Originally Posted By OlCrow:
Originally Posted By grumpy-old-man:
Well, I finally found my old, ZODIAC Seawolf!!!

I purchased the watch NIB in 1964.  A dive shop that I frequented had three or four in the case, all marked down to $65.00 - I dug deep, and in a few days, wore the watch home.
It came with the proper box and paperwork (long gone) and originally had the Oyster style bracelet with expansion links.

I dove with the watch for a number of years, wore it the entire time I was in the army and finally, for a number of years as an LEO.
The watch is pretty beat up, looks like it's been through a war (it has), but continued to run and keep decent time up until the day I retired it.  It's been sitting idle for around 40 years.

The crown is "frozen" and will not move.  I don't want to force it.  I'm assuming that dried crud or degraded gaskets/o-rings are the cause.
Even with the cracked crystal, it always maintained water resistance, however, I stopped using it as a dive watch long before it was retired.
If I shake the watch for a bit, the rotor will wind the main spring enough for the watch to run for a little while.  The ol' girl still has heart!

The Seawolf was a very popular dive watch.  Surprisingly, even with a snap on case back and the lack of a screw down crown, it was rated for a depth of 20 ATM (660').
I never heard of one springing a leak.

Link to an informative article: http://wornandwound.com/2014/02/14/affordable-vintage-zodiac-sea-wolf/

http://<a href=http://i181.photobucket.com/albums/x106/Yeti47/Zodiaccrop1.jpg</a>" />

I love the "patina" on that one!

I wish I owned a watch that I had worn for that many years doing all the things you did while wearing it. I think that is a thing of beauty. You have to enjoy looking at it and knowing that you put every mark on it. Very cool.

I hope you have someone to pass that one down to someday. I have a few of my grandfathers and my fathers watches that are very worn and I would never even think of polishing away one single mark on them, I love them just they way they are.
 


Thanks!  The Ol' Zodiac and I both acquired some permanent "marks" during the years I wore it.

My grandson is interested in watches.  He's only six, but wears a watch every day.  I'm doing my best to encourage his horological pursuits.  
I located a plastic clock kit online, and I'll get it for him for Christmas.  Once assembled, you wind it up, and it keeps time.
If he develops a serious interest in watches, he'll inherit some nice ones.
Link Posted: 10/21/2014 1:14:36 PM EDT
[#49]
Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Originally Posted By grumpy-old-man:


Thanks!  The Ol' Zodiac and I both acquired some permanent "marks" during the years I wore it.

My grandson is interested in watches.  He's only six, but wears a watch every day.  I'm doing my best to encourage his horological pursuits.  
I located a plastic clock kit online, and I'll get it for him for Christmas.  Once assembled, you wind it up, and it keeps time.
If he develops a serious interest in watches, he'll inherit some nice ones.
View Quote View All Quotes
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Discussion ForumsJump to Quoted PostQuote History
Originally Posted By grumpy-old-man:
Originally Posted By OlCrow:
Originally Posted By grumpy-old-man:
Well, I finally found my old, ZODIAC Seawolf!!!

I purchased the watch NIB in 1964.  A dive shop that I frequented had three or four in the case, all marked down to $65.00 - I dug deep, and in a few days, wore the watch home.
It came with the proper box and paperwork (long gone) and originally had the Oyster style bracelet with expansion links.

I dove with the watch for a number of years, wore it the entire time I was in the army and finally, for a number of years as an LEO.
The watch is pretty beat up, looks like it's been through a war (it has), but continued to run and keep decent time up until the day I retired it.  It's been sitting idle for around 40 years.

The crown is "frozen" and will not move.  I don't want to force it.  I'm assuming that dried crud or degraded gaskets/o-rings are the cause.
Even with the cracked crystal, it always maintained water resistance, however, I stopped using it as a dive watch long before it was retired.
If I shake the watch for a bit, the rotor will wind the main spring enough for the watch to run for a little while.  The ol' girl still has heart!

The Seawolf was a very popular dive watch.  Surprisingly, even with a snap on case back and the lack of a screw down crown, it was rated for a depth of 20 ATM (660').
I never heard of one springing a leak.

Link to an informative article: http://wornandwound.com/2014/02/14/affordable-vintage-zodiac-sea-wolf/

http://<a href=http://i181.photobucket.com/albums/x106/Yeti47/Zodiaccrop1.jpg</a>" />

I love the "patina" on that one!

I wish I owned a watch that I had worn for that many years doing all the things you did while wearing it. I think that is a thing of beauty. You have to enjoy looking at it and knowing that you put every mark on it. Very cool.

I hope you have someone to pass that one down to someday. I have a few of my grandfathers and my fathers watches that are very worn and I would never even think of polishing away one single mark on them, I love them just they way they are.
 


Thanks!  The Ol' Zodiac and I both acquired some permanent "marks" during the years I wore it.

My grandson is interested in watches.  He's only six, but wears a watch every day.  I'm doing my best to encourage his horological pursuits.  
I located a plastic clock kit online, and I'll get it for him for Christmas.  Once assembled, you wind it up, and it keeps time.
If he develops a serious interest in watches, he'll inherit some nice ones.


What a super idea!
He will thank you for something like that one day!
Link Posted: 10/21/2014 1:30:09 PM EDT
[#50]
Just for fun, here is the watch I posted in the WRUW thread on Sunday + a picture of an original ad (not mine, unfortunately):





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