I Thought It Just Needed a Service… I Was Wrong. Landeron 48 Restoration

In this video, I take on the complete restoration of a rare 1950s Orator chronograph powered by the legendary Landeron 48 movement.

At first, I thought the watch only needed a routine service. Once I opened it, I realized I was completely wrong. Years of wear, dirt, corrosion, and previous repairs meant this project became a full restoration from the ground up.

Watch the entire process as I:

-Completely disassemble the Landeron 48 chronograph movement
-Remove rust and old contamination
-Clean, inspect, lubricate, and reassemble every component
-Restore the chronograph functions
-Polish the acrylic crystal
-Refinish and replate the case
-Relume the hands
-Carefully reassemble and test the finished watch

Vintage chronographs are among the most rewarding—and challenging—watches to restore. Every project tells its own story, and this Orator had plenty of surprises waiting inside.

If you enjoy vintage watch restoration, mechanical watchmaking, and seeing forgotten timepieces brought back to life, consider subscribing for more restorations.

Thank you for watching!