The Right Oil in Watchmaking – Small Drops, Big Impact
25.06.2026
A mechanical watch consists of numerous moving parts that must work together perfectly. To keep friction and wear to a minimum, watch movements are lubricated with special oils and greases.
Not every oil is suitable for every application
Different lubricants are used depending on the component. Bearings, pivots and other high-stress areas each require oils with suitable properties. That is why watchmakers use various specialised oils – tailored to the specific application.
Less is more
When it comes to oiling, the rule is: as much as necessary, as little as possible. Even the smallest quantities are sufficient to provide optimal lubrication to the relevant area. Too much oil can spread throughout the movement and impair its function. That is why it is applied with extreme precision using specialised oil dispensers.
Regular maintenance pays off
Even high-quality oils age over time. That is why cleaning and re-oiling a movement are part of every professional service. This ensures the watch remains accurate and reliable in the long term.
Conclusion: Correct lubrication is a small detail with a big impact – and an important reason why professional maintenance can significantly extend the lifespan of a movement.
Skip product gallery
Grease Etsyntha B 52 Dr. Tillwich
€16.99*
Very soft, semi-synthetic, dropping point approx. 170°, for winding wheels, shift springs, levers, pins.
For metal/metal precision bearings in watch movements, for lubricating winding mechanisms, shift levers and springs, spring cores, anchor pins, pitch wheel teeth, tension springs and rotor bearings.
Operating temperatures -10 °C to +60 °C
Flow behavior somewhat structurally viscous
Viscosity-temperature behavior good
Fluid consistency
Appearance Yellow to light brown, transparent
Drop point 170°C
Base: mineral oil
Clock oil Moebius 8040
€17.99*
Classic, -27 °/80 °, viscosity 145 cst. For wheelwork with metal or jewelled bearings, clock escapement.
Oilers No. 5 Bergeon
€124.99*
Automatic precision oiler. Application: Wherever a precise amount of oil must be accurately placed, such as watchmaking, device construction, precision mechanics, electronics. This oiler ensures easy and precise control of the amount of oil by means of a lateral eccentric bolt. All components are replaceable. br
Drop injection oiler. Use everywhere the oiler must first be positioned before the amount of oil is discharged, e.g., wheel pins on watches. With plastic stand.
Clock grease
€31.99*
Watch-fat with very good friction behavior.
Especially for metal plain bearings in movements, precision instruments, plotters, printers, etc.
High pressure absorption, excellent aging and adhesion. Content 7 g.