kellosovittamisen

Kellosovittamisen, often translated as "watch fitting" or "watch adjustment," is a process in horology focused on ensuring a mechanical watch operates with optimal accuracy and reliability. It involves a series of meticulous adjustments to the watch's movement, primarily the balance wheel and hairspring assembly.

The primary goal of kellosovittamisen is to minimize the timekeeping errors caused by various external factors such as position, temperature, and isochronism (the tendency for the amplitude of oscillation to vary with the force driving it). Watchmakers use specialized tools, including tweezers, screwdrivers, and timing machines, to perform these adjustments.

Key aspects of kellosovittamisen include regulating the watch's rate, which is its average daily deviation in time. This is achieved by subtly altering the effective length of the hairspring, typically by adjusting small screws or studs on the balance wheel. Fine-tuning for different positions (dial up, dial down, crown up, etc.) is also crucial, as gravity can affect the balance wheel's oscillation.

Furthermore, the process may involve checking and adjusting the lubrication of the movement's various parts, ensuring smooth operation and reducing friction. A well-executed kellosovittamisen can significantly improve a mechanical watch's performance, bringing it closer to chronometer standards or even achieving them. It is a testament to the precision engineering and skilled craftsmanship involved in creating and maintaining fine timepieces.