Thiel Start
Description
According to todays measurements, the Thiel “Start” caliber is a very raw and large movement, which reminds more of an alarm clock but of a wristwatch. This 12 1/2 ligne movement was producted in the version shown here between 1938 and 1950; in modificated versions it was made until the mid sixties.
The brass colored, jewel-less pin lever movement builds very high (approx. 6mm) and consists only of one main plate, which makes any workings on it to a true nightmare, especially when you work on the balance (which shall look a bit a screw balance), which tumbles around in its bearings.
This movement is very large and crude
On the dial side, there’s just a rocking bar winding mechanism - a common feature of cheap watches.
The whole construction of this movement reminds me very much of a simple alarm clock, but evertheless, this movement was made and used for many years.
Thiel Start dial side
Technical data
| Manufacturer: | Thiel |
| Caliber: | Start |
| Size: | 12 1/2''' |
| A/h: | 18000 |
| Escapement: | Pin lever |
| Balance types: | Nickel anular balance |
| Shock protection(s): | none |
| Balance bearing / direction hairspring: | Clockwise |
| Moveable stud: | no |
| Adjust mechanism: | Long regulator arm |
| Construction: |
|
| Winding mechanism: | rocking bar winding system |
| Setting lever spring: | 1 hole |
| Features: |
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| Production period: | 1938 - 1950 |
| References: | Flume: 1947 90 |
Usage gallery
Thiel gents watch