[ArchieGoodwin]

I've noticed that each model 218 (2182, etc) watch I have is missing the casing spring (part # 319a). I've also noticed that many of these watches for sale on Ebay are missing it also. What purpose does this part have, how important is it, and what's the reason for them to be missing? The only thing I can assume is that it presses against the caseback (why I have no idea) and may also provide some protection to the index and pawl collet because it appears to cover it somewhat.
Would purchasing, and outfitting my 218's with this missing part be something I should do?

Eric

 

[Samantha]

Eric,
The casing spring was originally installed only on the early models, such as the 218D, but its use was later discontinued. There in no need to purchase ones for your watches.
Samantha

 

[ArchieGoodwin]

Ahh, I see. Thank you for the information, Samantha.

 

[oliverb]

Interesting. I noticed the presence of that spring on some 218s also but never investigated. Thanks for raising the question and for the answer!

 

[ArchieGoodwin]

It was a question that was bugging me so I thought I'd ask. Interesting, I think the "what'cha'ma'call'it" train appears to have holes that exist in it for that part on other 218's, such as the 2180, 2181 and 2182? I'll have to thoroughly check mine again, I may have mispoken on that. Samantha, what purpose did that part have, that was later determined to not be neccessary?

 

[Samantha]

It prevented movement of the movement in the case. A redesigned back gasket eliminated the need for the spring, as the new design of the gasket prevented any movement.
Samantha

 

[ArchieGoodwin]

Thank you Samantha, that clears it up. Appreciate the info.

 

[ArchieGoodwin]

Just an update. While searching online for something Accutron related I downloaded some information that included some Bulova Technical letters. One dated July, 1971, letter #1 with the heading Accutron 218 Series - Casing Springs #319A, had the following text -

"Due to a new development, most 218 Accutrons no longer need a casing spring to hold the movement in place. If the models in your stock, or those in for repair, do not contain one, it was not because of an oversight but rather because it is not required."



fyi,
Eric

 

[oliverb]

Just an update. While searching online for something Accutron related I downloaded some information that included some Bulova Technical letters. One dated July, 1971, letter #1 with the heading Accutron 218 Series - Casing Springs #319A, had the following text -

"Due to a new development, most 218 Accutrons no longer need a casing spring to hold the movement in place. If the models in your stock, or those in for repair, do not contain one, it was not because of an oversight but rather because it is not required."



fyi,
Eric

Eric,
Nice work!

 

[blue92]

I've got a material can with about 300 of them in it.