Zodiac Talk => General Zodiac Discussion => Topic started by: stefaninla on August 05, 2022, 10:43:19 PM

Title: Stem 72 vs 72B
Post by: stefaninla on August 05, 2022, 10:43:19 PM
And... I'm back again. :).
I've cleaned and reassembled the 72B movement - that was definitely Franken-watched at one point and I'm working through that.

Problem
When the stem is pulled for setting time, the clutch gear doesn't really mesh snugly with the intermediate... it flops around at the end of the stem.
Side by side - the stem looks to be the same as stems in two different 72 movements I have.

Question: what is the difference between a 72 stem and a 72B stem and is this an indicator that the stem is incorrect?

Thanks Gurus!!!
Title: Re: Stem 72 vs 72B
Post by: YuriyV on August 05, 2022, 11:22:30 PM
Stems for these are different and not interchangeable. Post pictures of your stem and movement. It is easier to look and make conclusion than explain.
Title: Re: Stem 72 vs 72B
Post by: stefaninla on August 06, 2022, 10:19:47 PM
Hi Yuriy,
I've uploaded a video to youtube, which I think makes the issue viewable.
Based on another 72 mainplate that I have, it looks as though the area just below the intermediate gear where the stem end is seated is machined deeper on this mainplate.

https://youtu.be/IKTgfQQB82o (https://youtu.be/IKTgfQQB82o)

2022_0806_182243_001.JPG
Title: Re: Stem 72 vs 72B
Post by: YuriyV on August 07, 2022, 06:00:05 AM
Yes, the stem on the picture is for 70-72 and won't work on 72B.
Title: Re: Stem 72 vs 72B
Post by: Butch on August 07, 2022, 08:29:44 AM
Thank you Yuriy.
Title: Re: Stem 72 vs 72B
Post by: Ultra-Vintage on August 07, 2022, 12:33:57 PM
Agree with above  :agreei


There are 6 total stem variations within the lifespan of the Zodiac A Schild based calibers as they progressed from the 70 to the 88D.  Some of their differences can be very minor, but it can make a big impact on the setting/winding if the wrong one is used.  Additionally, they also made a 2-piece stem for both non-quickset and quick-set.
Title: Re: Stem 72 vs 72B
Post by: stefaninla on August 20, 2022, 11:19:06 PM
YAY!
I was able to source a 72B stem and - it works! The quickset date feature is also pretty neat and works perfectly. Now I just need to find a steel bezel for this one and it will be "de-frankensteined". LOL. If anyone wants to trade a blue 'bakelite' 946 for a steel bezel 916 bezel, let me know. :)   
Title: Re: Stem 72 vs 72B
Post by: Butch on August 21, 2022, 07:09:35 AM
FYI, it is acrylic not "bakelite". Congrats on the stem.
Title: Re: Stem 72 vs 72B
Post by: stefaninla on August 21, 2022, 02:47:44 PM
yes... I know, Hence the air quotes around Bakelite.
A friend of mine who collects both watches and (true) Bakelite radios goes crazy when Zodiac Bezels are called Bakelite.
I like to drive him crazy with it. :) :)
Title: Re: Stem 72 vs 72B
Post by: Butch on August 21, 2022, 03:54:06 PM
Good you know, then lay on McDuff! I know all about driving people crazy with things like that.
 :sm3