Seiko 2118A - Parts List

Seiko 2118A – Technical Guide (High Quality)

The Seiko 2118A is a manual-winding mechanical movement introduced in the late 1960s, crafted primarily for ladies’ wristwatches. This compact caliber features a precise two-hand configuration (hour and minute) and is designed to fit slim, elegant watch cases while providing reliable performance and durability. The 2118A highlights Seiko’s expertise in producing small, efficient movements tailored to women’s timepieces.


1. Technical Specifications

Feature Details
Caliber Number Seiko 2118A
Movement Type Mechanical – Manual winding
Functions Hour, Minute
Jewels 17
Beat Rate 18,000 vibrations/hour (5 beats per second)
Power Reserve Approximately 40 hours
Winding Method Manual only
Hacking Seconds No
Calendar None
Diameter Approximately 19 mm
Movement Height Approximately 3.5 mm
Shock Protection Diashock (balance staff)

2. Key Features

  • Two-hand display focusing on hour and minute functions

  • Slim and compact design ideal for delicate ladies’ watches

  • 17-jewel construction ensuring reduced friction and enhanced durability

  • Diashock balance protection for impact resistance

  • Reliable manual winding with smooth operation

  • Service-friendly construction facilitating maintenance


3. Operating Instructions

Manual Winding:

  • Wind the crown clockwise daily until resistance is felt; avoid overwinding

  • Power reserve lasts approximately 40 hours

Time Setting:

  • Pull the crown out to the setting position

  • Rotate to adjust hour and minute hands

  • Push crown back in to resume normal operation


4. Movement Architecture

Dial Side:

  • Hour and minute wheels with cannon pinion

  • Keyless works with sliding pinion and clutch wheel for time setting

Train Side:

  • Mainspring barrel with ratchet and click springs

  • Gear train including center, third, and escape wheels

  • Pallet fork and balance wheel assembly with flat hairspring

  • Regulator lever for precise timing adjustment

  • Diashock system protecting balance pivots


5. Service Recommendations

Service Interval Every 4–6 years
Cleaning Complete disassembly and ultrasonic cleaning
Lubrication Train pivots, escapement, balance jewels
Regulation Adjust via regulator lever aiming for ±30 seconds/day

6. Common Issues & Troubleshooting

Issue Likely Cause Solution
Watch stops prematurely Dried or dirty mainspring Clean and lubricate; replace mainspring if necessary
Inaccurate timekeeping Magnetized or dirty balance pivots Demagnetize and clean pivots
Loose or slipping hands Worn cannon pinion Refit or replace cannon pinion
Low amplitude Dirty jewels or weak mainspring Service movement and replace parts if necessary

7. Applications

The Seiko 2118A was installed in:

  • Ladies’ wristwatches with slim, elegant cases (typically 18–22 mm diameter)

  • Polished steel or gold-plated cases

  • Watches featuring minimalist dials without seconds or date complications


8. Historical Context

The 2118A represents Seiko’s continued dedication in the late 1960s to:

  • Manufacturing compact, reliable mechanical calibers for ladies’ watches

  • Combining slim form factors with robust mechanical design

  • Building a foundation for future advancements in watch movement technology


9. Conclusion

The Seiko 2118A is a reliable and elegant manual-winding movement designed for vintage ladies’ wristwatches. Its simple two-hand layout, slim profile, and durable construction make it a favored caliber among collectors and restorers. With proper servicing, the 2118A offers dependable and graceful timekeeping that showcases Seiko’s craftsmanship during its era.

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