Service and Repair of a Wakmann Triple Date Chronograph Powered by the Valjoux 730
Introduction
This case study documents the service and repair of a vintage Wakmann Triple Date Chronograph powered by the highly regarded Valjoux 730 manual-wind chronograph movement. This example required particular attention to the calendar mechanism, where the steel spring pins used to secure the date-advance wheels had broken. New replacement pins were fabricated and installed to restore reliable operation of the date mechanism.
Repair of the Date-Advance Mechanism
During inspection of this Wakmann, I found that the steel spring pins securing the date-advance wheels had broken. Without these pins, the date mechanism will not advance. The broken pin spring were removed and replaced with new brass pins, restoring the operation of the date-advance components.
Complete Service
In addition to repairing the calendar mechanism, the Valjoux 730 received a complete movement service. The movement was disassembled and inspected. Components were thoroughly cleaned, reassembled and lubricated. The chronograph functions, calendar mechanism, winding system, and escapement were then adjusted and tested to ensure smooth and reliable operation.
After Disassembly and Cleaning, Reassembly
Conclusion
The Wakmann Triple Date Chronograph is an excellent example of mid-century Swiss chronograph design, combining the functionality of a professional chronograph with the added convenience of a full calendar.
If you own a Wakmann chronograph, Valjoux 730, or other vintage mechanical chronograph requiring service or repair, I invite you to contact me to discuss your watch, or visit getting started. Each timepiece is individually evaluated, with an emphasis on careful mechanical restoration, preservation, and reliable long-term operation. Other case studies on the Valjoux 730 can be found here, and here.
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.
Brief History of the Wakmann Triple Date Chronograph
Wakmann became well known in the United States for its Swiss-made chronographs and complicated calendar watches, particularly during the 1950s through the 1970s. The company offered a variety of chronographs for aviation, racing, and other professional applications, using movements supplied by some of Switzerland's leading movement manufacturers.
The Valjoux 730 belongs to a family of high-grade manually wound chronograph movements derived from the Valjoux 72 architecture. The 730 added calendar functions to the chronograph platform, making it particularly useful for watches such as the Wakmann Triple Date. These movements combine a traditional column-wheel chronograph with a calendar mechanism displaying the date, day, and month.
Winding and Setting instructions for the Valjoux 730
This instructional guide explains how to properly set and operate a vintage Wakmann chronograph with the Valjoux 72C/730 calendar chronograph movement. Because these movements contain delicate calendar and chronograph mechanisms, it is important to follow the setting procedures carefully. In particular, avoid changing the day, date, or month during the restricted hours shown in the diagram, and never attempt to reset the chronograph while it is running. Following these precautions can help prevent unnecessary damage and keep this complicated vintage movement operating reliably.
