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How to Adjust a Micrometric Regulator

A micrometric regulator sets the cycle speed of the wheel in watches and helps the device accurately keep time. The regulator can be finely turned by adjusting a small screw that secures it in place. Micrometric regulators are most commonly used in high-end watches, but may be found in other types. Over time, the regulator in your watch may need to be adjusted if it is not accurately keeping time. Adjusting a micrometric regulator can be a simple process, but if it is done incorrectly, the watch could be damaged and may not precisely keep time. It is helpful to have knowledge of how watches operate prior to completing this task.

Things You'll Need

Watch with micrometric regulator
Watch screwdriver set
Flathead screwdriver

Instructions

- 1
  Inspect the watch to determine how it is assembled. Some watches are machine-pressed together and others are secured with screws.
- 2
  Loosen and remove the screws from the back casing with a watch screwdriver kit. Pry off the cover, if necessary, with the tip of a flathead screwdriver. Pull out the battery and set it aside. If the watch is machine-pressed together, fit the blade of a flathead screwdriver in the seam between the back and front of the watch. Lift up on the screwdriver to pull the back casing away. Take the battery out.
- 3
  Locate the micrometric regulator, which will have a wheel, a point, and the letters "F" and "S" located on it for fast and slow. There will also be hash marks, similar to what you find on a ruler, located between the "F" and "S."
- 4
  Insert the tip of the screwdriver into the grooves of the adjustment screw located on the regulator. Move the point on the regulator closer to the "F" or the "S" by either tightening or loosening the screw, depending on if you need to speed up or slow down the time-keeping aspect of your watch. If your watch is running slow, move the regulator point closer to the "F." If the watch is running fast, move the point closer to the "S." You may need to adjust the regulator a few times before you get it right if you have never done this before.

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