Why can I set the hands on my pocket watch even though the stem and the crown turn freely and I can still wind the watch?
More than likely you have what is called a “lever set” style pocket watch. This was very popular early in the century, especially for gentlemen working on the railroad where a watch that was worn in one’s pants pocket or vest would not change time if bumped or handled was needed. Your pocket watch, if it is a lever set, must be opened on the dial side. The lever should be at approximately the 2:00 location around the rim. Pulling it out will engage the stem to allow you to set the correct time. Push in the lever after the task is completed and return the case cover to its original location. Note that some case covers are screw-off and not pry-open or lip-pin styles, so extreme care is advised in determining how to remove your dial cover. We invite you to stop in to Ralph Miller Jewelers and we will be happy to show you how to correctly set your antique watch at no charge . (Also note that some pocket watches also require keys to set and wind. Notches and key-pins are easily seen when c
