Platform for Watch Hand Setting Tool

This is a useful platform that mounts onto the base of a hand-setting press.  It creates a wide, stable surface with clearance for a variety of movement holders.  The surface aides in the process of installing watch hands by allowing flexible positioning and orientation of the movement.  It is particularly useful for pushing on subdial hands that are offset or off-center from the hand setting runner/pusher.  Examples of use cases include chronographs and sub-seconds watches. 

Compatible hand presses include the Bergeon 8935 family of tools:

• Bergeon 8935 “Setting Tool with 4 Runners for Hands"
• Bergeon 8935-5 “Setting Tool with 5 Runners for Hands”
• Bergeon 8935-3 “Setting Tool with 3 Runners for Hands”
• Bergeon 8935-1 “Setting Tool with 1 Runner for Hands”

This will also work on BG8935-style presses like those found under labels such as RUIPAI and JIATIMES.  These have very similar mounting surfaces to the Bergeon tool.

During design, care was spent on platform stability, with a focus on reducing excess play and flex.  It features a recess that fits over the exterior of the movement support in the base.  It also has a raised portion that fills in the gap that a movement holder would normally sit in.  The curved surfaces allow for gripping and easy installation/removal of the platform.  

Due to the tight tolerances, several versions with different recess diameters are provided.  I have found the best results by selecting models with a diameter that is 0.20mm greater than the actual measured diameter.  On the Bergeon 8935 that was tested, I measured 36.15mm diameter (choose the 36.35mm version of the model).  On the non-Bergeon tools tested, I measured between 34.45mm to 35.9mm diameters (choose 34.65mm and 36.1mm versions respectively).  Here's a photo of a base measuring 35.85mm using my calipers.  The model with 36.05mm diameter fit very well on this one, with easy on/off feel and no sideshake.  

To avoid overhangs, it is recommended to print this model with the flat (top) surface flipped down towards the print bed.  

This model is easy to print and has been tested on the Prusa i3 MK3S+ and Mini+ with 0.4mm nozzle at 0.15mm and 0.20mm layer heights.  Test prints were done on smooth and satin sheets (I prefer the finish of the satin).  For this model, I like printing with the setting “External perimeters first” turned ON to ensure dimensions.  The corners of the print should have little to no lifting from the printbed; if you observe this, I recommend using a gluestick or lowering Z-level for better adhesion.

The models seen in the photos above were printed using Overture Matte Blue PLA and Overture Matte Light Gray PLA.

Happy hand-setting!