Lubrication: The Five Critical Points
Author: Funny Items
Release time: 2026-08-31 02:23:21
View number: 9
Lubrication Points in a Movement
Mechanical movements need oil at specific points — too much or too little both cause problems. Here is the simplified map.
The Key Lubrication Points
| Location | Lubricant Type | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Balance wheel pivots | Thin synthetic oil | Reduces friction in the timekeeping heart |
| Escape wheel pivots | Thin synthetic oil | Prevents pallet fork wear |
| Mainspring barrel | Grease | Reduces barrel friction during power transfer |
| Keyless works | Grease | Smooth crown operation and setting |
| Motion works | Thin oil | Smooth hand rotation |
What DIY Owners Should Know
- Do not lubricate yourself: wrong lubricant types and quantities cause more harm than dried oil
- Know the schedule: 3-5 year service intervals keep lubrication fresh — see our service guide
- What you CAN do: external crown lubrication (gasket only) — see our grease guide
Why Over-Lubrication Is Worse Than Under
Excess oil migrates from pivot points to dial surfaces and crystal interiors — creating smears that degrade aesthetics and can fog crystals. Under-lubrication causes wear; over-lubrication causes cosmetic damage and inaccurate timekeeping.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I tell if my watch needs oil?
Gritty crown feel and reduced amplitude on the timegrapher are early signs — see our advanced guide.