Extremely sensitive movement...is this normal?

[glimmer]

Hi everyone,

First off, Happy New Year to everyone on TRF...

I have a question with regards to a recently acquired 1601-4 Datejust. The serial number dates it to 1970 or 1971 and has just been recently serviced. It is different from my other watches in that in order to get the movement going again after it has stopped for a couple of days, all it takes it one shake and the second hand moves back to life. Is this normal? I'm not too familiar with movements but somehow I think that something might be very sensitive with this particular watch, is it just the age or the particular movement that makes it easy to start up again?

Any advice would be much appreciated...

[slcbbrown]

I'm used to one or two shakes starting mine. I'm ususally concerned if they don't start quickly.

[glimmer]

Originally Posted by slcbbrown

I'm used to one or two shakes starting mine. I'm ususally concerned if they don't start quickly.

Thanks for the reply...

[mike]

One of my 1675s and a 1680 does that. All I seem to have to do is pick them up and they start. I think it's just a small amout of power stored in the mainspring.

Both are rugged as h---.

[Subexplorer]

Clarence:
hello!
I own several Rolex watches, both modern make, and vintage.
I have observed, that some of them are more "sensitive" as you call it, and with very little movement of my hand they begin to work, while others do not.

Anyway, by not means it is advisable to shake an automatic watch in order to start it.
Best thing is to turn crown some 30 to 40 turns, then set the correct time, and screw back the crown, then put on your wrist.

This is better for the mechanism, and a a general advice by watchmakers I have requested advice from.

That´s what I do with mine, as I find some watches requiere a good shaking which I feel make no good to the movement inside.

Just my personal piece of advice and point of view.
Have a great New Year!
Kind regards, Abel.

[BarkMaster]

If winding 40-50 full turns doesn't do it, I seem to recall someone (I won't mention JJ's name) mentioning something about "swirling"... would seem to be a gentler way to jumpstart it.

Then again... if it can't take a little shaking, it shouldn't be on your wrist.

[G.J]

Hi Clarence..

My 14060 and my GMT do the same..

[glimmer]

Thanks for all the replies guys...I was just a bit concerned because I do normally wind up my watches before wearing them and it seemed that this particular DJ didn't need winding...anyhow I'm still going to wind it anyway.

[glimmer]

Originally Posted by G.J

Hi Clarence..

My 14060 and my GMT do the same..

Thanks GJ! Happy New Year...