What lubricating oil is used to maintain automatic mechanical watches?

Friends who use watches know that automatic mechanical watches require regular maintenance to ensure their normal operation and service life. When lubricating the various components of these watches, professional watchmakers and technicians use specific watch oils and lubricants. The following are some commonly used lubricants for automatic mechanical watch maintenance:

 1. Watch oil: There are different types of watch oil, including synthetic oil and mineral oil, each with its own viscosity and characteristics. These oils are used to lubricate the pivots and jewels of watch movements. Synthetic oils are often preferred for their stability and durability.

 2. Molybdenum disulfide grease: This grease is rarely used in certain parts of the movement, such as the calendar mechanism and the sliding surfaces of the winding mechanism. It provides extra lubrication and reduces wear.

3. Moebius 9010: This is a popular brand of synthetic watch oil used in the main bearings of watch movements. It is known for its stability and long-lasting lubrication.

 4. Moebius 9415: This is another synthetic watch oil commonly used to lubricate the escapement fork and escapement components. This is essential to ensure accurate timing.

 5. D5 oil: This is a high-quality synthetic oil that is sometimes used to lubricate gear trains and other parts of watch movements.

 6. Silicone grease: Silicone grease is used to seal gaskets and O-rings in watch cases to maintain water resistance. It is also rarely used for some seals within the movement to prevent moisture and dust from entering.

 7. Lithium-based grease: In some cases, lithium-based grease can be used for specific applications, such as lubricating the mainspring barrel spindle or crown stem.

 The choice and amount of lubricant depends on the specific watch movement, its age, and the watch manufacturer's recommendations. Watchmakers and technicians are trained to select the right lubricant and apply it precisely to ensure the watch operates properly. Lubrication is an important aspect of watch maintenance as it helps reduce friction, wear, and the risk of damage to the movement’s precision components.