A simple hand pinning tool
I always seem to have difficulty pushing down the minute hand and collet together against the minute pipe suspension spring washer whilst inserting the retaining pin through the small hole in the end of the minute shaft. I came up with a very simple tool which takes only about five minutes to make from scrap.
Take a small rod of brass about 50mm long and 7mm in diameter. Drill a small hole down one end about 15mm deep then countersink it slightly. Next, cut a slot 8mm deep across the centre line of the hole. Finish off by fixing the non-drilled end into a small wooden handle.
To use, simply place the tool on top of the collet and hand with the slot lined up with the hole in the minute shaft, push down and hold whilst the pin is pushed through. Very simple but effective.
Brian Clark, UK
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