Regulating a Watch

[norcaltransplant]

Since Timezone takes the hands-on approach to horology, I thought the SF might provide the simple, quick-and-dirty answer. I recently picked up 2 timepieces, that, interesting, both use the ETA 2892 as the base movement. The modified 2892 is running about 5s fast/day which is acceptable in my books--it was also purchased used. My "new" watch is a discontinued model, brand new, that has been sitting on the shelf for around three years. Its running b/w 15-18 sec fast/day depending if I wear it or leave it on the dresser face up. So here's my question--is the second watch worth taking to the jeweler's and getting it regulated? How much would this cost (a relatively easy procedure)? Has anyone had any experience with regulating a watch in the past? And is there really a "burn-in" period, or is that another wive's tale?

cheers,
NCT

Now, aren't you glad that you bought quartz?

 

[Ambulance Chaser]

Yes, your watch needs to be broken in, particularly because it has been sitting in a case for so long.  I would wear it for 3-4 months and check on its accuracy then.  I have never had a watch regulated (my Blancpain had apparently become magnetized and was gaining 1.5 seconds/hour; I sent it to customer service in NJ), but I can't imagine that it would be terribly difficult or expensive to regulate an ETA 2892 within COSC specifications (-4/+6 seconds/day).

 

[imageWIS]

There are er, two ways to regulate watches: the first is via minute positioning movements while the watch is at rest, but running, and experiment by leaving the watch in different positions and see if you can adjust or balance the accuracy (a very slow method, perhaps, but can be done at home without risk of damage to the watch).

The other more complex method is to open the watches case back and regulate the watch yourself via the movement. Unless you know how to regulate a Etachron adjustment device (as found in most ETA mechanical movements) I would steer clear of trying this at home and leave it to the professionals.

Jon.