Introduction
This manual provides detailed instructions for the proper handling, installation, operation, and maintenance of the Hattori / SII VK68A Analogue Quartz Chronograph Watch Movement. The VK68A is a high-quality Japanese quartz movement featuring chronograph functions and a date display. Please read this manual thoroughly before attempting any work on the movement to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
Specifications
The VK68A movement is manufactured by Seiko Instruments Inc. (SII) / Hattori.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Movement Type | Analogue Quartz |
| Manufacturer | Seiko Instruments Inc. (SII) / Hattori |
| Size (Ligne) | 13-1/2 Round |
| Outside Diameter | φ30.80 mm × 29.10 mm (3H - 9H) |
| Casing Diameter | φ29.00 mm |
| Total Height | 5.1mm |
| Hands Dimensions | 89/150/34 (Hour/Minute/Second) |
| Cannon Pinion Total Height | 7.43mm |
| Watch Battery | SR936SW (Silver oxide battery) |
| Battery Life | Approx. 3 years (with 60 minutes chronograph operation per day) |
| Jewels | 0 Jewel |
| Time Indication | Hour, Minute, Small Second (at 6H), Date Calendar |
| Chronograph Functions | Center 1/5 Second Chronograph Hand, 60 Minutes Counter (at 10H), 24 Hour Indicator (at 2H) |
| Date Position | 4:30 Angled to Center |
| Driving System | Two pole stepping motor, Step motor 2 pieces |
| Additional Mechanisms | Date display with quick correction, Electronic circuit reset switch, Time setting with stop-second |
| Accuracy | Less than ± 20 seconds per month (at normal temperature range) |
| Antimagnetic | ≥ 1600 A/m |
Movement Views:
Chronograph Dial Layout:
Setup
This section covers the initial setup and installation procedures for the VK68A movement.
1. Attaching Hands
When attaching hands, ensure they are correctly aligned and do not touch each other or the dial. The hand's top surface should be set parallel with the axis tip.
Hand Setting Procedure:
- Place the movement directly on a flat metal plate or similar surface to install the hands.
- Second / Minute / Hour Chronograph Hands Setting:
(1) Push button A (Chronograph start).
(2) Push button A (Chronograph stop).
(3) Push button B (Chronograph reset).
(4) After (1)-(3), install the chronograph hands as shown in the table below.
| Cal. | VK68 |
|---|---|
| Second chronograph | "12 o'clock" (center) |
| Minute chronograph | "60" minute (10H) |
| Hour chronograph |
Note: Do not reuse the chronograph hands once detached. Please change and use new hands.
2. Installing 24-Hour Hand
Before installing the 24-hour hand, pull out the crown to the second click position and rotate it clockwise until the next date is displayed. Then install the 24-hour hand.
Operation
The VK68A movement offers standard timekeeping, date display, and chronograph functions.
1. Time Setting
Pull the crown out to the second click position. Rotate the crown to set the hour and minute hands. Push the crown back to the normal position to start the movement.
2. Date Setting (Quick Correction)
Pull the crown out to the first click position. Rotate the crown to adjust the date. Push the crown back to the normal position when done.
3. Chronograph Function
- Start/Stop: Press button A to start the chronograph. Press button A again to stop it.
- Reset: While the chronograph is stopped, press button B to reset all chronograph hands (center 1/5 second, 60-minute counter) to their zero positions.
Maintenance
Proper maintenance ensures the longevity and accuracy of your VK68A movement.
1. Battery Replacement
The VK68A movement uses an SR936SW silver oxide battery with an approximate life of 3 years (assuming 60 minutes of chronograph operation per day).
Procedure:
- To remove the battery: Remove the hook of the switch spring's battery clamp.
- To install the battery: Insert the battery sideways, and then hook the switch spring's battery clamp catch to the main plate.
- Remarks on installing the battery: After the battery is replaced with a new one, or after the battery is re-installed following repairing procedures, be sure to touch the AC terminal of the circuit block and the switch spring with conductive tweezers to reset the circuit as illustrated.
2. Winding Stem Removal
Procedure:
- Set the winding stem to the normal position.
- Pull out the winding stem while pushing point "A" (refer to diagram).
3. Oiling Spots
For professional servicing, specific oiling spots are critical for the chronograph mechanism. Oiling should be done on the pointed spots of marked places and on the contact spot of the spring and the pin.
Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your VK68A movement, consider the following common solutions:
- Chronograph hands not resetting to zero: Perform an electronic circuit reset by touching the AC terminal and the switch spring with conductive tweezers after battery installation or re-installation.
- Watch not running after battery replacement: Ensure the battery is correctly installed and the circuit has been reset.
- Inaccurate timekeeping: While the movement has an accuracy of less than ±20 seconds per month, significant deviation may indicate a need for professional inspection or battery replacement.
User Tips
- Always handle the movement with appropriate tools and in a clean, dust-free environment to prevent damage.
- For complex procedures like hand installation or movement assembly, professional watchmaking tools and expertise are recommended.
- When replacing hands, it is advised to use new chronograph hands for optimal performance and fit.
Warranty and Support
For warranty information or technical support regarding your Hattori / SII VK68A movement, please contact the seller or an authorized service center. Keep your purchase records for any warranty claims.