Top 10 Questions for Mainspring Winder and Oiler Interview

1. Define the mainspring, and explain its role in a watch?

A mainspring is a coiled ribbon of high carbon steel, the power source of mechanical watches. When wound, the mainspring stores mechanical energy that is released to power the watch’s movement. The mainspring is the heart of the watch, providing the constant force that drives the gear train and regulates timekeeping.

2. Describe the process of winding and oiling a mainspring?

Winding the Mainspring

• Securely hold the barrel cover and bridge.
• Insert the winding key into the arbor.
• Slowly and evenly wind the mainspring clockwise until it reaches the desired torque.

Oiling the Mainspring

• Apply a small drop of synthetic watch oil to the arbor.
• Use a pegwood to distribute the oil evenly over the arbor.
• Apply a small drop of oil to the mainspring barrel wall.
• Spread the oil evenly with a pegwood or lint-free cloth.

3. What are the common issues that can arise during mainspring winding and oiling?

• Overwinding: Can cause the mainspring to break or buckle.
• Underwinding: May result in insufficient power to drive the watch.
• Incorrect oiling: Can lead to friction and wear on the mainspring and other components.
• Contamination: Dirt or debris can cause the mainspring to bind or malfunction.

4. What types of tools and equipment are used for mainspring winding and oiling?

• Winding key
• Barrel cover holder
• Bridge holder
• Pegwood
• Lint-free cloth
• Synthetic watch oil

5. How can you ensure the accuracy of a newly wound and oiled mainspring?

• Chronograph testing: Measure the rate and amplitude of the watch.
• Timegrapher testing: Display the beat error and amplitude of the watch.
• Observation: Listen for any unusual noises or vibrations.
• Experience: With time and practice, you can develop a feel for a properly wound and oiled mainspring.

6. What is the importance of proper lubrication when winding and oiling a mainspring?

• Reduces friction: Oil creates a thin film between moving parts, minimizing friction.
• Prevents wear: Oil lubricates the mainspring and other components, reducing wear and tear.
• Protects against corrosion: Oil prevents moisture and oxygen from coming into contact with metal surfaces, inhibiting corrosion.
• Ensures smooth operation: Proper lubrication allows the mainspring to wind and unwind smoothly, providing consistent power to the watch.

7. What are the different types of oils used for mainspring winding and oiling?

• Synthetic watch oils: Modern, high-performance oils specifically designed for watch movements.
• Mineral oils: Traditional oils used for lubrication, but synthetic oils are preferred for their superior properties.
• Graphite powder: Sometimes used as a dry lubricant.

8. How do you determine the correct amount of oil to apply when oiling a mainspring?

• Manufacturer’s recommendations: Refer to the watch manufacturer’s specifications for the recommended amount of oil.
• Visual inspection: Apply a small drop of oil and distribute it evenly. Avoid excessive oil, which can attract dirt and cause problems.
• Experience: With practice, you will develop a feel for the correct amount of oil to apply.

9. What safety precautions should be taken when winding and oiling a mainspring?

• Wear eye protection: The mainspring can snap back if it breaks.
• Use proper tools: The correct tools help prevent damage to the mainspring or watch.
• Avoid overwinding: Listen for the mainspring slipping or binding to prevent breakage.
• Handle with care: The mainspring is a delicate component that can easily be damaged.

10. How do you troubleshoot a watch that is not holding power after mainspring winding and oiling?

• Check the mainspring: Ensure it is not broken or damaged.
• Inspect the barrel and arbor: Look for any signs of wear or damage.
• Examine the lubrication: Check if there is sufficient oil and if it has been applied correctly.
• Other potential issues: Check the gear train, escapement, and other components for any problems.

Mainspring winders and oilers are responsible for maintaining and repairing clocks and watches. Their key job responsibilities include:

1. Winding and Oiling the Mainspring

The mainspring is a coiled spring that provides the power to drive the clock or watch. Mainspring winders and oilers must carefully wind the mainspring to the correct tension and apply oil to the spring to reduce friction and wear.

• Wind the mainspring using a winding key or machine.
• Apply oil to the mainspring to reduce friction and wear.

2. Assembling and Disassembling Clocks and Watches

Mainspring winders and oilers must be able to assemble and disassemble clocks and watches in order to perform repairs and maintenance. They must have a good understanding of the different components of clocks and watches and how they work together.

• Disassemble the clock or watch to identify the problem.
• Replace or repair damaged parts.
• Reassemble the clock or watch and test it to ensure that it is working properly.

3. Cleaning and Polishing Clocks and Watches

Mainspring winders and oilers must also be able to clean and polish clocks and watches to keep them looking their best. They must use the correct cleaning and polishing techniques to avoid damaging the finish of the clock or watch.

• Clean the exterior of the clock or watch using a soft cloth and mild soap.
• Polish the exterior of the clock or watch using a soft cloth and a metal polish.

4. Troubleshooting and Repairing Clocks and Watches

Mainspring winders and oilers must be able to troubleshoot and repair clocks and watches. They must be able to identify the source of the problem and make the necessary repairs to get the clock or watch working properly again.

• Identify the source of the problem by examining the clock or watch.
• Make the necessary repairs to fix the problem.
• Test the clock or watch to ensure that it is working properly.

To prepare for an interview for a mainspring winder and oiler position, it is important to have a good understanding of the key job responsibilities. You should also be prepared to answer questions about your experience and skills in the following areas:

1. Winding and Oiling Mainsprings

Be prepared to describe your experience in winding and oiling mainsprings. You should also be able to explain the importance of winding the mainspring to the correct tension and applying oil to reduce friction and wear.

• Practice winding and oiling mainsprings on a practice clock or watch.
• Read articles and books about the proper techniques for winding and oiling mainsprings.

2. Assembling and Disassembling Clocks and Watches

Be prepared to describe your experience in assembling and disassembling clocks and watches. You should also be able to explain the different components of clocks and watches and how they work together.

• Practice assembling and disassembling clocks and watches on a practice clock or watch.
• Read articles and books about the different components of clocks and watches and how they work together.

3. Cleaning and Polishing Clocks and Watches

Be prepared to describe your experience in cleaning and polishing clocks and watches. You should also be able to explain the importance of using the correct cleaning and polishing techniques to avoid damaging the finish of the clock or watch.

• Practice cleaning and polishing clocks and watches on a practice clock or watch.
• Read articles and books about the proper techniques for cleaning and polishing clocks and watches.

4. Troubleshooting and Repairing Clocks and Watches

Be prepared to describe your experience in troubleshooting and repairing clocks and watches. You should also be able to explain the importance of being able to identify the source of the problem and make the necessary repairs to get the clock or watch working properly again.

• Practice troubleshooting and repairing clocks and watches on a practice clock or watch.
• Read articles and books about the different types of problems that can occur with clocks and watches and how to repair them.