Water entry on a 6542

[phillip ridley]

Hey guys,

Happy New year. Here I had the pleasure of a 6542 GMT, that has gone many years without "love".

During that time, unfortunately, it took in some water. As you can see, several parts have rusted over. The case screw being the main issue. After carefully removing the dial and hands, I attempted to put a couple small drops of oil to hopefully free the screw. Then I started to disassemble the movement. After a couple days, I was unable to remove the screw. Now it is time to use a product called ALUM, this product in water will attack the steel and dissolve the metal. That's why it is very important to remove ALL metal parts. After 2 days, the screw was completely dissolved.

Now it's time for the "spa treatment". After cleaning, oiling, regulating and closing worn bushing, this watch is ready to be enjoyed once again.

Replaced all external components and gave it that clean look using a NOS tropic 38 crystal.

Phillip Ridley, CW21
Watchmakers International