The Watchmakers’ Lathe – Its Use and Abuse
Author: Ward L. Goodrich
ISBN: 978‑3‑9505639‑4‑8 / 9783950563948
Format: Softcover, thread bound • 125 × 190 mm
Pages: 296, richly illustrated
Language: English
Original Edition: Chicago, 1903 • 2025 Reprint: Berlin, published by Verlag Historische Uhrenbücher
Reading Sample
🔧 A Timeless Masterpiece of Watchmaking Engineering
The Watchmakers’ Lathe – Its Use and Abuse is a classic manual by American engineer Ward L. Goodrich, first issued in 1903 and now revived in this exquisite 2025 edition. This work remains an essential technical resource for anyone involved in watchmaking, precision mechanics, restoration, or the history of tools. Carefully thread‑bound and produced with high‑quality paper, this edition preserves all original illustrations and instructional content.
📖 What You’ll Find Inside
1. The Evolution of the Lathe
Trace the lathe’s journey—from its earliest forms in ancient Egypt and India, through medieval European foot and bow lathes, to the refined Swiss universal lathe and the innovations of Charles S. Moseley in America.
2. Anatomy of the American Watchmaker’s Lathe
Understand why the American lathe—with its live spindle, round bed, split chucks, and slide rests—offers unmatched precision and durability, especially compared to Geneva and Swiss-style machines.
3. Precision in Design & Engineering
In-depth technical chapters cover:
Spindle–tailstock alignment & bed geometry
Hardened materials and grinding techniques
Concentricity, taper fits, and bearing construction
4. The Split Chuck Revolution
Learn how split chucks enable versatile work‑holding:
Mechanical principles of compression and draw‑in
Proper sizing, jaw integrity, and usage guidance
5. Accessories, Attachments & Workshop Tools
A detailed overview of essential attachments including faceplates, cement chucks, wheel-cutting rigs, polishing tools, and specialized slide-rest implements.
6. Craftsmanship: Philosophy & Best Practices
Beyond mechanical know-how, the author emphasizes:
Patience, discipline, and tool maintenance
Understanding material behavior and learning through practice
The mindset required for excellence in micromechanics
🎯 Who Should Read This Book?
Apprentice & Professional Watchmakers – foundational training and advanced technical insight
Precision Mechanics & Tool Engineers – learn the time‑tested principles of micromachinery
Restorers & Museum Specialists – historical accuracy meets practical knowledge
Collectors & Horology Enthusiasts – explore the development and mastery of fine-watch tools
🛠️ Key Technical & Structural Details
Format: 125 × 190 mm softcover with durable thread-binding
Illustrations: Over 100 original diagrams and engravings, meticulously reproduced
Page Count: 296 pages of detailed text and visual instruction
Publishers: Verlag Historische Uhrenbücher, Berlin/Innsbruck, specialists in horological literature
✅ Why This 2025 Edition Is a Must-Have
Complete reprint of the seminal 1903 work—no abridgments or omissions
High-grade production suitable for workshops or home libraries
Combines historical scholarship with workshop precision
Ideal gift for watchmakers, educators, refurbishment professionals, and collectors
