Mimocean “Mimo” Vintage Wrist Watch — Professional Repair & Service
Service & Repair Summary
When this vintage Mimocean arrived at the workshop, several issues were needed attention. The stem needed replacement, and the balance staff pivots were worn. In addition to a service, these parts were fabricated.
Balance Staff Replacement
The original balance staff pivots were worn, a common problem in older movements that leads to poor amplitude and inconsistent timekeeping. Because replacement parts were unavailable, a new balance staff was custom-made, finished, and installed to restore proper balance action
Stem Replacement
The watch’s winding stem was severely worn — likely from decades of use or a poorly executed past repair. A new stem was turned on the lathe and filed square to match the original profile, then fitted to ensure crisp winding and setting function.
Movement Cleaning & Restoration
Although the movement plates had weathered relatively well, the crown wheel and winding wheel showed significant corrosion from age and exposure. A full movement disassembly and ultrasonic cleaning removed old oils and corrosion, followed by careful inspection, lubrication, and reassembly. Once serviced, the movement now runs well with strong power transfer.
Dial & Hands Preservation
The dial and hands retain a fine vintage patina, adding to the watch’s historical appeal. These cosmetic elements were preserved without over-polishing to maintain authenticity and collector value.
Restore your vintage timepiece
If you own a rare or obscure vintage watch — Swiss or otherwise — that doesn’t run, runs poorly, or needs expert care, I can help. I specialize in professional vintage mechanical watch repair, restoration of historic calibers, and custom watch parts fabrication when original components are unavailable. If you would like to initiate the repair of your vintage timepiece contact me directly, or visit getting started.
Vintage Mimo Watch History
Never heard of Mimo? You’re not alone. Mimo was one of many Swiss Watch companies that operated from the late 1800s to the mid-1900s. They produced many innovative watches, including (apparently) the first 8-day wristwatch, and the First Ladies digital “jump” hour wristwatch (reference “Finding Mimo” by Bruce Shawkey, NAWCC Bulletin April 2011). They manufactured wristwatches for the German army during WWI and then disappeared after the war. The owner went on to produce watches under the purchased company name of Girard-Perregaux (who, of course, went on to become the well known high-end luxury watch company).
For additional information on watches we work on please visit these pages: Vintage Rolex repair— Vintage Breitling repair —Vintage Omega repair — Vintage Heuer repair —Bulova Repair, and Pocket Watch Repair. See my FAQ for additional information, and visit Watch Repair Case Studies.
