Vintage Watchmaker’s Balance Wheel Holding and Adjustment Jig, Brass and Steel
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A specialised watchmaker’s holding and adjustment jig of brass and steel, intended to steady balance wheels and support balance cocks while the balance screws were manipulated. Its compact bench-standing form incorporates a slotted upright, small steel fittings and an adjustable support platform secured by a knurled thumbscrew. Maker and country of manufacture are unidentified.
The brass components display machined surfaces, shaped edges and evidence of finishing and assembly. Surface scratches and localised discolouration remain visible following cleaning and polishing. Acquired with a group of watchmaking tools in approximately the late 1980s, the jig represents the specialised workshop equipment associated with servicing mechanical watch balances.
SKU: TG HW 10
Reference:
A comparable jig and its function are documented in The Naked Watchmaker’s Antique Watchmaking Tools collection:
https://www.thenakedwatchmaker.com/decons-tools
Circa:
20th century; precise manufacturing date unconfirmed.
Provenance:
Thomas Guenther Collection, Netherlands; acquired with a group of watchmaking tools in approximately the late 1980s.
Measurements:
4.1 × 3.8 × 3.8 cm.
Weight:
93 g.