Hey all,
I bought a watch with the tap 10 stem broken off right at the end of the crown post. While I could have simply acquired and fitted a new crown, the crown is signed and I wanted to keep it. So, I tried removing the stem.
There wasn't enough protruding to grab with pliers. I tried (unsuccessfully) filing a slot in the stem to back it out with a screw driver. I even took it to a local shop, but they said they couldn't remove it.
I read soaking the crown in vinegar would dissolve the softer steel of the stem, but not harm the stainless steel. I gave it a shot and after several weeks it worked, but now what?
The vinegar has evaporated and I've cleaned up the crown with rodico and pegwood. Do I need to do something to ensure the vinegar is neutralized? Do I need to replace the gasket (it's a waterproof crown)? What other questions should I be asking?
Taking a step back, is this a watchmaker accepted method for solving this problem?
I appreciate your help,
Doug
I bought a watch with the tap 10 stem broken off right at the end of the crown post. While I could have simply acquired and fitted a new crown, the crown is signed and I wanted to keep it. So, I tried removing the stem.
There wasn't enough protruding to grab with pliers. I tried (unsuccessfully) filing a slot in the stem to back it out with a screw driver. I even took it to a local shop, but they said they couldn't remove it.
I read soaking the crown in vinegar would dissolve the softer steel of the stem, but not harm the stainless steel. I gave it a shot and after several weeks it worked, but now what?
The vinegar has evaporated and I've cleaned up the crown with rodico and pegwood. Do I need to do something to ensure the vinegar is neutralized? Do I need to replace the gasket (it's a waterproof crown)? What other questions should I be asking?
Taking a step back, is this a watchmaker accepted method for solving this problem?
I appreciate your help,
Doug