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Bulova Accutron Watches
We offer service on Bulova Accutron watches. Accutron watches when introduced in the 1960's were revolutionary. Operating on a completely different principle than all previous watches, Accutron repairs require specialized tools equipment and knowledge. There is much confusion regarding Accutron batteries (cells). There were 2 major series of Accutron watch movements.
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1) If your watch is set from the back with a flip out setting device, you have a model 214. Model 214's originally used a 387 (mercury) cell. Because of recent environmental legislation regarding the use of mercury in cells, the 387 cells are no longer available. Its replacement is the 387S. Another option is to use the 394 cells, IF you have the small white plastic grommet that came with an old 387 or 387S cell. Simply place the 394 in the plastic grommet and the whole assembly in the watch POSITIVE SIDE DOWN and screw on the cell hatch. The larger side of the cell should be down and the larger side of the grommet should be up. Please do not try to cram an oversize cell in a 214-cell compartment because you will only succeed in breaking the coil assembly. The new non-mercury batteries are of a higher voltage than the old mercury batteries. This can cause problems with watches running extremely fast, or actually double timing running a full 12 hours in only 6.
Although some repairers suggest the use of a special expensive and short-lived battery, called an Accucell, the design principal of this device is flawed. Battery life can be as short as 6 months, and the battery cost can be as much as $20.
The Lititz Watch Co. has developed a proprietary microchip that is imbedded in the electronics of the watch. Unlike the Accucell, this system is based on sound electronic engineering principals, and completely eliminates the double timing problem. This system is typically implemented only in 214 models and is not outfitted with the early three-wire coils but only with the later two-wire coils.
2) If your watch sets from the side like a regular watch but the crown is in the 4 o'clock position, you have a 218 model Accutron. Model 218 originally used the 343 cell (with mercury). The replacement is the 344. Please use caution when installing cells in 218 movements! The coil wires are practically invisible to the naked eye and easily damaged. Do-it-yourself or send it to us, but please don't take it to your local mall store. Replacement coils are expensive. |
Reconditioning of Your Accutron Watch
The utmost care will be used in the restoration of your Accutron watch. The following steps will be taken in bringing it back to factory new running condition and are included in our basic restoration service.
Movement:
Complete disassembly and inspection of all components. Ultrasonic cleaning using the best and purest cleaning fluids. Careful hand cleaning of coils, tuning fork, index jewel, and ratchet jewel. Inspection and re-assembly of the movement. Hand oiling of each pivot with the proper grade of the best synthetic lubricants. Installation of a fresh, mercury-free battery and microchip as required. Adjustment of the critical index and ratchet jewels to obtain the best performance possible using the new mercury free batteries. Timing of the movement using the latest Swiss timing equipment.
Case:
The case of your Accutron will be restored to bring back its original luster using a variety of methods depending on case materials. Gold plate or gold-filled cases will be lightly polished by hand followed by a chemical polishing operation. Solid gold or solid stainless steel cases will be polished more heavily to remove scratches as required and then chemically polished.
Standard high dome or tension ring crystals will be replaced at no cost during restoration. Special "space-view" or astronaut crystals will be polished to remove light scratches at no cost or replaced at extra cost. The case back and battery hatch gaskets will be replaced as necessary.
Re-casing:
The watch will be re-cased and the case back firmly installed. The watch will be test run for approximately 2 weeks.
Case and Bracelet:
Accutron watches should be cleaned using a soft polishing cloth. Do not use excessive amounts of water because Accutron watches that are 30 to 40 years old should not be considered waterproof.
Crystal:
Plastic crystals in Accutron watches are susceptible to scratching from normal use. These minor scratches can be removed using a damp rag and a little whitening toothpaste.
Waterproofing:
Some Accutron watches when new were water-resistant. Reconditioned Accutrons always receive a new case back gasket and battery hatch gasket, however during the restoration process they are not tested for, and should not be considered, water-resistant.
Please feel free to call us to discuss the specifics of your watch repair/restoration problem. |
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