Restoring a Vietnam-Era Military Watch I Purchased on eBay as "For Parts or Repair"
Тәжірибелік нұсқаулар және стиль
Marshall restores another vintage watch, this time it's a 1960s military watch that was probably used in Vietnam. He picked it up off of eBay as a "for parts or repair" project, and sure enough it won't run at all. Plus the hands have degraded significantly, so it's quite a project!
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I remember when I first started training in the watch shop on board the USS Bryce Canyon AD36 early 1971 they sent us to the bridge to remove the radium from the pointer on the Lead Helm we removed the pointer scraped off the radium and painted the pointer with a white luminous paint.The inspecting officer asked us what we had done with radium when we told him he called in a decon team secured the bridge and sent us both to sick bay to test for radium poisoning.
@peterking1134
Ай бұрын
What did you do with the radium?
@richeyrich2203
Ай бұрын
Did you inhale the powder? What happened?
@doylecox7512
Ай бұрын
@@richeyrich2203 I guess not sick bay couldn’t find anything,
@doylecox7512
Ай бұрын
@@peterking1134 just scraped it off like always. Decon team didn’t find anything I think they wiped down the bridge and put the rags in a lead box not sure what they did with the box. Never heard anything else about it
@jackpaxton9391
Ай бұрын
There are watch shops on some military boats?? also awesome story :)
There's something about a new crystal and an aged dial that's just beautiful.
As you were talking about skills, knowledge, and technique, at about 17:10, I noticed you do something that was likely automatic for you and yet something many people don't know. As you were trying to install the screw and get the threads lined up, you gave it a partial turn in the opposite direction. You can see, and feel, the thread drop into place, then it is lined up when you turn it forward. I particularly like and recommend doing this if one is putting a screw into a soft material like plastic, wood, or even soft metals.
@OldSaltyBear
Ай бұрын
Thats so true. I do the same when I need to seat a bolt in tight quarters on one of my tractors... especially when I can't feel it drop in with my hands. A half turn in the opposite direction helps prevent cross threading... from tiny watch screws to valve cover bolts on tractors.
@davidcameron648
Ай бұрын
This is very important with the self-tapping screws in plastic. A cross threaded screw can crack the plastic screw posts, leading to a very annoying repair.
@robmanueb.
Ай бұрын
Taken a few lenses apart, some with multithreads. They can take a long minute being turned backward before things lineup and fall into place.
@crumbopulis
Ай бұрын
This is because the threads on the bolt and the threads in the hole have a definite start, once the end of the threads meets the start of the others the “point” of the od threads drop into the id threads. Keep tinkering boys! There’s something new to learn every day!
@MarkiusFox
Ай бұрын
I learned of that from a precision shooting channel, 8541 Tactical. Very important when you're installing the screws for scope mounts.
Tell the truth, you got this watch specifically so you'd have an excuse to buy that tool.
@volvo09
Ай бұрын
Haha! Can't say I've never done that!
@toshihitsu1989
Ай бұрын
if you are talking about the crystal setting tool then no that is not a new tool for him he has use that in many videos
@pudermcgavin4462
Ай бұрын
He's a mechanic just not on cars this is what we do!
@davidcameron648
Ай бұрын
@@pudermcgavin4462 Yep. I'm a tool collector who repairs electronics.
@user-km1cf1gs8x
Ай бұрын
Tool looks like some Dalek lost his hand ?
Great job. I actually like this watch better than most of the more expensive/fancy ones you've done.
@traviskitchens9790
Ай бұрын
Absolutely agree.
@ironwolfF1
Ай бұрын
Yup, this watch has _purpose_ behind it (and perhaps a bit of history); it's not just another 'shiny' to decorate one's wrist.
Marshall! I just put my first movement back together :) It took a lot of patience, but the moment that balance wheel kicked up and ran by itself felt like hitting a home run. I'm hooked. Thank you for building my confidence and interest in such a rewarding hobby!
I was a lucky when I was young I had a grandfather who repaired pocket watches as a hobby I spent a many of hours in my youth watching him. When I got old started doing it myself never tried wrist watches but in the early days of ebay I spent a lot buying pocket watches to repair and resale and picked up a few keepers along the way too. I have a few key winds which I love. I'm sure they could use a good cleaning now. My eye sight now that I'm in my 60s has got so bad I can no longer do it myself. So if you ever feel like you like to tackle one let me know I send them your way love to watch you show off one of my watches.
Tearing down all the way, cleaning every part, and then putting back together with the right oils and seals is what I loved about rebuilding truck engines. Basically the same thing, just everything is bigger, haha.
I have loved watches since I was a kid. I'm in my 70's now. I have Parkinson's so learning how to fix something as small and delicate like a watch would not be a good idea for me, lol. I can see it flying across the room now as I shout out, "WATCH OUT" as it sails out the window, lmao. The world of timepieces would never be the same. My passion is Seiko watches. I bought my first one in Japan during a stopover on the way to war. Excellent watches, and I still have a few in storage. Anyways, I really enjoy watching you do these delicate repairs. Take care and I hope you keep making these videos.
I wish I could send you my mom's favorite watch. She passed away recently, and my dad is now in assisted living. While moving their stuff, I found her little watch. It doesn't work, but I keep it close. I have fond memories of her wearing it. Anyway, I love your videos and how detailed they are. If it wasn't for my hand tremors, I would pick up this hobby. It's fascinating. Keep up the great content. 👍
@Poperol
Ай бұрын
He does sometimes work on viewers watches , but please don't forget that some watch scalpers have contacted chanel viewers pretending to be him.
@WyvernDotRed
Ай бұрын
What @Poperol said. Ignore any comments here redirecting to a way to get in contact and shoot WWR an email, Instagram or Patreon message (whichever you can manage and confirm his account ownership of). You can always ask this way, if you expect to get no for an answer, acceptance of the job will be a pleasant surprise.
The mechanical empathy you demonstrate is a joy to view, often turning a screw 1/4 turn anti clockwise to get it seated, then screwing it firmly down clockwise, just wonderful...
20:39 I bet that was a heart in mouth moment when that tiny little gear went flying
@jayc2469
Ай бұрын
I'm glad someone else saw it flying out! 😱
@KD-KayakDanglerUK
Ай бұрын
Yep I saw it
@paulbarrows3244
Ай бұрын
Setting wheel takes flight.. I saw the same thing. :)
@DanielCoffey67
Ай бұрын
And then it magically reappears in place. Ah, the beauty of editing!
@FeArhsma21
Ай бұрын
Ha Ha i didn't see your comment till after i had already written mine. Nice, you caught it too!!! God Bless you!
Terrific soothing resto of a classic Benrus! I have 4 Vietnam issue, circa 1968 Benrus watches & a Hamilton. I’m in Australia & only yesterday I sent my Hamilton away for exactly this! Beyond my capabilities, I’ve sent it to a recommended watch restorer. The others are all still functioning ok, & I wear them occasionally. They still keep bloody good time too!👍🏼😎
Watch your videos whenever I wanna just relax clock out of life stress and enjoy some classic workbench craftsmanship Thanks again
Marshall. The most striking part of the watch has to be that face. It's so striking to look at, and behind ascratch free crystal it looks even better. That is certainly a watch I'd be happy to wear on a daily basis. Thank you for sharing your work. P.S. If your friend decides he doesn't want it......
@frankiethebear
Ай бұрын
The dial is gorgeous, I love these military types watches.
@tiagopires1419
Ай бұрын
Have faith man from Portugal here 🇵🇹🇵🇹🇵🇹🇵🇹🇵🇹✌️🥂
@chrisanderson2368
Ай бұрын
It is a very handsome watch.
Tidy looking military watch nicer than ELGIN ,now you've fixed and serviced. Amazing skillset you possess.
I just picked up a Late 60's or early 70's Ball Trainmaster Automatic for $200USD on eBay that is running, but at about -30sec/day. A 25 jewel ETA 2620 or 2821 movement, still not quite sure, but I am leaning towards the former. I really don't feel like messing something up, so I am hoping to work through my pocket watches first to get comfortable. I have been practicing on a beat up 15 Jewel USSR chronograph. One balance reposition on my Grandfather's 1920 Elgin pocket watch and I was hooked after I saw the 30 year dormant movement start ticking. Thank you for the inspiration, knowledge, and courage to move from the obsolescence of smartphone repair to the investment of watch repair:)
There is something beautiful about the simplicity of that dial. Great work!
Hi Marshall watching your videos made me want a vintage watch but I didn't think there was anything in the family. Last week I found my late grandfathers watch it's nothing special an old Seiko of a type they actually still make but anyway now it's off at local jewelers for a service. Hopefully it all goes well and I can wear it for daily use.
I’m not really into watches but your commentary is what keeps me watching. Thanks
Marshall, listening to you work on a watch, enjoying a beverage after work, is sublimely relaxing. At one level I follow the technology of the repairs. But I'm not now, nor will I become a watch fixer. What works is the narrative, your enthusiasm, the ease of your explanation stemming from your incredible expertise. Thanks.... BTW, after watching closely the tools you use. I now own a great set of tiny screwdrivers.
You know, not only am i amazed at how Marshell is able to work with such incredible small peices that those watches have. But I would LOVE to see those that actually BUILD those amazingly small screws and springs! I love this channel and wtching Marshall work on these watches! Thank you!
@andrewallen9993
Ай бұрын
There is a couple of marvelous videos on KZread of how they make Vostok watches at the factory. Including the machines that make the tiny gears. Jeweled bearings etc.
The myriad of tools watch makers use is astounding. I was watching a video the other day where an antique rounding up tool was used. Add in the crystal press and you can understand why the hobby can be expensive. But all hobbies can be expensive. Especially if done correctly 😊. Excellent video, thank you.
Absolutely stunning watch. Such a simple design and a great strap added! Well done.
I must say, I haven't worn a watch in decades, but this finished watch is definitely one I would wear! Nothing too flashy about it, just nice and functional... I particularly like the lack of a brand, for some reason 😉
I have watched you and others for a couple, three years and really enjoy the "craft". After watching this and other great success, I think "I'm gonna do this!". Then I think: with recent eye problems and being 82 years old with some short term memory problems, (no more than most old farts) AND the cost of tools AND limited experience using the internet to do research and finding and buying things (that are what they say they are), I think I am better off watching you guys that make it look so easy and enjoyable on UTUBE. Thanks to all of you who make these wonderful videos.🤓
Cool watch. The font for the numbers is interesting, especially the '4'.
Love these old watches. Great face. They were great daily drivers
Great video. Like that closing shot. I look forward in each of your videos to seeing whether or not "born to fly" will spread its wings and take off.
Another excellent service/restoration, Marshall! Well done. I really enjoy watching your videos. They’re very therapeutic for some reason. Thanks!
Its a really lovely utilitarian watch. Reminds me of one my dad had for decades. The brown band really compliments it.
Here I was, perusing for something to watch and you post at this very minute. Excellent 👍
thanks for posting. always enjoy your videos. i appreciate that you don't hide any mistakes. We all make them.
I have no idea why but watching you is really coming for me and seeing you work on this beautiful watch is the berries
Cleaning is indeed cathartic, but it’s not only in watchmaking/restoration. My hobby is collecting, making, repairing and modifying folding knives. Completely cleaning and restoring a well used knife is a wonderful experience. A tool to cut things or a tool to tell time, we are both performing a valuable service for sure. Love your channel ❤
I would have gone back and re-loomed the hour markers... That would drive me insane not being able to see them glow with the hands.
I just want to thank you personally for taking the time to make up watch repair kits for the average person, looking for your latest video is my happy place, cheers.
Fantastic job on that old watch. Collecting up old watches and taking watch class.
Well done, Marshall. That Lume looks like it needed a little coffee but it still looks great!
We have leveled up to the crystal lift tool, how exciting! ha
It's always a pleasure to watch a passionate masterful craftsman at work - thank you!
Oh Lord I'm so freaking ready for this!!! What a fun project. Appreciate these videos, I'm not into watch repair and watch making myself, but damn if it's not interesting. People sharing their passion for something is always so infectious. Cheers!
20:39 / 20:40
@BackwardsFish86
Ай бұрын
Its back in there after the time stamp, looks like he caught it but edited that out for some reason.
@originalboondi
Ай бұрын
Called intermediate setting wheel. Defo back in as no way to turn hands if it is missing. Ask me how I know....🤔 😎 😁
For luming clocks I've always used strontium powder and paper glue, I have used nail polish lacquer but it blocks the UV a little so it's never as bright, but the clear paper glue and strontium powder works great and glows for 5-7 hours.
I like the 24-hr simple design of military watch faces. You did a nice repair there! Thanks for sharing. ❤😊
Hey marshall have to say i love your channel, i decided to do a course in horology and retrain as a clock/watchmaker and your channel is a great learning tool and you are very informative. I feel the knowledge ive gained from your videos is definitely going to be advantageous when i start the course. 👍
By far my favorite watch thus far. I liked the Elgin resto you did a couple years back. It turned out beautifully but this one has surpassed it by a mile. Beautiful watch. I'm hoping to be able to afford one of these types one day, properly restored. I'd give watch restoration a try, it looks like a ton of fun, but alas the tremors from my MS mean I can only watch, but I enjoy the heck out of watching!!
A super film demonstrating your watch skills, sorting out the hacking to engage correctly was really good. I actually own one of the fully military version of this watch which was issued to troops in Vietnam. My own has an issue date of March 1968. The military model is DTU-2A/P and a military specification MIL-W-3818B A civilian version was also produced which was made famous by Steve McQueen. He wore one in Bullit and can best be seen on his wrist during the famous car chase.
Excellent video Marshall. Thanks for sharing that with us all.
Gotta love military watches. Coolest designs ever.
Been watching your videos for a while and also listening to Limited Resources and just last episode realized that you do both!! How cool!
Absolutely gorgeous. I love the dial on this watch! And Arnold Palmers are legit!
Nice work, well done. Thanks for the video.
Holy cow! I've been working on the follow-on to this, the plastic Timex Camper UK2991211688 watch that became famous because MacGyver wore it. That new replacement one had a truly disposable Timex M116 movement where the click spring would "eat itself up". The movement on your watch is so much more substantial than the Timex Camper follow-on. Great video here!
- Marshall, ...........you have done another GREAT project. Your watch looks great after work. That was a little unusual , but you cracked it.......... many thanks for sharing Ben
Yes knowing the rest of the story is a big plus. More please.
Wow that bought back memories. I had that watch or something very similar when I was a child. All the way through I was thinking it was similar, but probably not the same because I remembered green lume. Then when you lit up the lume at the end BOOM, there it was, just as I remembered it in the darkness under the blankets after charging it up with a torch. Thanks for the memory.
Perfect timing😅, no pun intented. End of a hard week and laying down, alarm switched off until Monday, and watching this. Thanks again Marshall😊
Beautiful restoration. Thank you.
Hello,i write from Spain and just to say enjoy a lot with your work a pasion ,thank for share this videos with us.
Absolutely stunning restoration. Well done!
Your videos inspired me to get a watch so I got a Seiko 5 sport and I love it.
Very Cool! I restored 2 of these so far and they turned out great. The only thing I did different was using a nylon military strap instead of a leather strap. It just gives it a little more of that military look. Thank you Marshall for another great video.
The dial on that time piece is georgeous !
Shellac was (and still is) used to finish furniture, floors, and other woodwork. They come as flakes and are dissolved in pure alcohol, so anything with alcohol will dissolve the shellac.
I was explaining to the monitor that reluming the hands only will result in a very weird in-the-night experience by having only hands being able to charge and light up. You could've probably covered the other lumed stuff with thinner/lighter cover for night time consistency :) Great work, Marshall, I'll soon buy some more stuff from your online shop, I kinda got tired of disassembling and reassembling the training watch set :)
Marshall, I always love your videos! My hands tremble too much for me to ever take on the hobby for myself, but I enjoy it vicariously through your work! I do wonder though, on these kinds of restorations, that is, more practical vs historical, how difficult it would end up being to redo the lume on the face itself? The hand lume was a great success and I can only wonder how much work it would be to get all of that back into working order. Keep up the good work!
Thank you very much for sharing this one! It is certainly one of the better looking Military watches I have seen, including the old Kienzle Markant that I wore in the 1960's.
love this channel, so relaxing and informative
I enjoy your videos! I’m thinking about getting into watch repair. Went and checked out your website, that will be the way I go. Thanks for sharing with us, and taking us on the journey!!
I really enjoyed this episode. I like the basic military watch. TY
4:47 I always enjoy the moment with left-hand screw. In my life I only met it in heavy machinery and trucks.
Great job sir . Ive never watched a watch repair video in my life. You make it very interesting. Thank you .
I was looking at this exact model watch the other day. Yes because of you and your channel, I am tempted to get a watch to repair or mess with. I’ve looked more at the Elgin models mainly so if I could get it working I might be able to gift it.
Thanks!Awesome video.... was amazing watching the "hack issue"
I had that exact watch. It lasted less than a month. There was no screw down crown, and water got into the case. I replaced it with a Zodiac Sea Wolf that I bought at the Da Nang PX. It survived.
Another excellent video Marshall. Thanks for your content. I got into this hobby because of you.
Love the watch...and another great restoration Marshall.. Great find and super job on getting that one up and running. Looks awesome..and love the strap too...!!
The wonderful art of Problem Solving 💖 what a lovely watch
Great looking watch. Love the look of these older field watches.
Really cool watch and great, simple design aswell. Would love to own one.
Another great restoration. Always a pleasure to watch you work.
Great videos and excellent explanation of what you are doing!
Looks great Marshall. A useful tip when putting the setting lever back in. I use a bit of Rodico to hold it in place, then it can be turned upside down and screwed in without it falling off.
Great patina and I like the choice of band. That watch gives off a great classic vibe.
Great Video! Took a look at the website with the kits and its perfect. Great idea for people to easily get involved in watch making.
Good morning. I just inherited a pocket watch. Just some basic research and I’ve learned it is an 11 jewel, hunter model Illinois Watch Company watch from 1902. I told my Mom (it was her great grandfathers) I watch your videos and that you work on subscribers watches sometimes. I wasn’t sure if this was the best way to reach out. I’m very excited about the watch. Have a great day.
I've got a Hamilton watch with a dial that looks almost exactly like that but with a day and date complication and Hamilton branding. It's such a clean and functional design
@wingracer1614
Ай бұрын
Sounds like a Hamilton Khaki. Really nice watches for not a whole lot of money.
Nice job. Somewhere in my collection I have this watch. Mine is marked Benrus on the dial.
That watch is SO cool! Great find, great work!
another great video! that white spot on the minute hand though….that really attracts the eye! good job again Marshall!
Fantastic restoration ...Thanks !!!
You can just about see some markings on the case back, so it's possible it is an issue watch that has had the original bead-blasted finish polished off. My guess is that it is the MIL-W-3818, or GG-W-113. Split stems are a pain, I have the Hamilton GG-W-113 that has the female connector on the crown which broke. It's almost impossible (in the UK anyway) to obtain spares. Good vid, I enjoy watching you work!
I recently got a neat Benrus watch from my grandfather, it doesn’t run very well though it loses a couple seconds every minute
*A good looking watch and good work putting it back into action.*
I really love the idea of selling starter kits! That's brilliant.
4:05 Wow! That dial is pristine!
One of my fave types. Great look and very cool tool!
wonderfully simple looking watch... very, very nice
I think you did an awesome job.....Thank you for sharing