Westclox W4

Description

This ruby-free disposable movement, Westclox W4 was made in Scotland, probably in the 1950s. With its size of 10 1/2 x 9 1/4 lignes (23.5 x 21.0mm) it was pretty large and crude and completely lacks filigree and finishing.

The simple, stamped base plate of this pillar movement shows its simplicity: All bearings are nothing but simple drillings into the plate without any bearing rubies.

The Westclox W4 uses the classical gear train: The mainspring barrel (uncovered at its top) drives the center minute wheel, followed by third wheel (which drives the indirect center second wheel), seconds wheel and a pretty tiny escape wheel.

Escape wheel and lever are both beared on the movement side below an own tiny bridge, which is mounted onto the top plate.

Since not only all gears, but also the non shock protected (but due to a thick V-conic axle very rugged) balance are all beared below one single bridge (or better, plate), this movement is very difficult to service.

Its height makes it almost impossible, to put four gears with their long axles, the lever which also has got a long axle, and the balance wheel, whose hairspring is monted on the upper plate, at the same time into their bearings. Normally, such disposeable movement were not ment to be serviced at all.

The balance probably beats slowly with 18000 A/h and regulates a pin lever escapement.

On the dial side, you can spot the rocking bar keyless works and the very simple ratchet, which consists only of one single riveted spring. You also see the heigth-adjustable bearing of the balance staff.

Technical data

Usage gallery