History and Origin of the Watch

The Jaquet Droz 338 watch is an authentic piece of Swiss watchmaking history. Jaquet Droz is a revered name in the world of horology for its mastery in the art of watchmaking. Founded in the 18th century by Swiss watchmaker Pierre Jaquet-Droz, the company is known for producing high-quality watches, often adorned with artistic complications. The watch in question, produced in the 1960s, represents an important phase in Swiss watchmaking history.

I found this rare specimen on eBay, where vintage watches are often sought after by collectors and horology enthusiasts. The watch was not in optimal condition, with evident signs of wear and neglected maintenance, but its intrinsic charm was still apparent.

The Restoration

Restoring a vintage watch requires craftsmanship and patience. After acquiring the watch, the owner consulted several watchmaking experts to assess its condition and plan the restoration. Here are the key steps involved:

1. Complete Disassembly: The first step was to completely disassemble the watch to assess each component and determine which parts needed to be replaced or repaired.

2. Cleaning: All watch parts were meticulously cleaned to remove dust, dirt, grease, and years of accumulated grime. This stage is crucial to ensure the proper functioning of the watch.

3. Repairs: Some parts of the watch were damaged or worn due to use, so they were repaired or replaced. This included overhauling the mechanical movement and replacing key components.

4. Aesthetic Restoration: The watch case was cleaned and polished to remove surface scratches. The dial and hands were restored with great care to preserve their original appearance.

5. Reassembly: Once all parts were repaired, cleaned, and restored, the watch was carefully reassembled. Particular attention was paid to ensure that the movement operated flawlessly.

6. Regulation: The watch was precisely adjusted to ensure it kept time with Swiss accuracy, for which Jaquet Droz is renowned.

The Final Result

After weeks of hard work and attention to detail, the Jaquet Droz 338 watch was returned to its former glory. Its mechanical movement beats with Swiss precision, while the dial and case shine like new. This restoration has breathed new life into a piece of watchmaking history, allowing its new owner to enjoy an authentic Swiss masterpiece from the 1960s.

This restoration serves as an example of the value of vintage watchmaking and the dedication required to revive these precious relics from the past. The Jaquet Droz 338 watch is now a living testament to the art of Swiss watchmaking and will continue to bring joy and elegance to its owner for many years to come.