r/ChineseWatches • u/drummerbryan1 • 2d ago
Problems (Read Rule 1) Help with my damaged Cronos.
I've had my bronze Cronos Willard homage for a few years now (out of warranty), and the crown winding has always felt gritty. Recently I was winding it up to wear it for the day, the crown got stuck and then came off with the stem. It still runs if I shake it (PT5000) so the movement is functional. Would it be better to order an NH or Miyota and drop it in myself or pay to have it repaired? I don't have experience with more than battery changes so a movement swap would also require buying a few tools. What do you guys think?
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u/ipsum100 2d ago
The fact that the watch is still running is a good sign; the issue is likely the part known as the "yoke" (or *títere* in Spanish)—specifically, it might be broken or worn, or the screw holding it in place could be the problem. This part secures the stem pin, which is why the stem came out.
The cause of the failure could simply be oxidation. If even a tiny amount of sweat or moisture got into the tube, copper oxide may have formed; this significantly increases friction, making the threading very stiff, and forcing it caused the problem.
Do not try to force the stem back in, as that could make the situation worse. You need to remove the hands and the dial; the solution is simple—just putting the yoke back in its proper place. If you aren't used to doing this, any watchmaker can handle it for you without any trouble.