Pocket Watches Problem

[albaqwerty]

friend has a couple of pocket watches, but the main springs are 'jammed'
Anyone have any idea if they can be unjammed and what with or is it not worth it?

Many thanks.

[woofgang]

Depends on what the watches are made of and how old. They can be repaired but its not cheap. If he wants to risk it, a little light oil could be tried.

[albaqwerty]

Thanks Woofy.
Not made of valuable metal and possibly 70's vintage.
Not the most expensive of watches so not much point in spending too much on them.
I can't stop thinking of suspending them over a cup of paraffin and letting the fumes do their thing, but am probably barking up the wrong tree.

[woofgang]

alba, the fumes aren't lubricant.

[albaqwerty]

I know, I'm baffled as to why that even popped into my head.
Vague memories of childhood, maybe I had an odd childhood lol

[woofgang]

must have been the parafin fumes lol

[sanmac]

70's vintage? Possibly, but not necessarily, of no intrinsic value. However, to your friend, they might have some sentimental value. Have him/her take the watches to a certified watch-maker, NOT a "High St" jeweler, and get a quote on repairing.