Pulsar Big Time?

[Clive]

Hi,

I've recently purchased one of these little fellas and was wondering if anyone could give me any info on it, how old it's likely to be where it comes in the Pulsar scheme of things, it looks mint from the photos I have but unfortunately I can't work out how to post them

Cheers Clive.

[bruce wegmann]

This model was introduced in early 1975, about mid-way through Time Computer's existance. All originally came with the 401 [magnet-set] module. Later in 1975 the 402 [auto-set] and 403 [DOW] versions became available. All DOW modules were auto-set. The Big Time [referring to the oversize crystal] was, visually, something of an "oddball" design. It is difficult to find with a pristine crystal, as the thin metal rims surrounding it leave it overly vulnerable to chipping and scratches. Rare Tiffany and Neiman-Marcus marked versions exist. As far as is known, none were made in goldfill or solid gold; all are stainless steel. All P4 modules are interchangeable; the 406 [24HR display] module properly goes only in the Executive.

[Clive]

Thanks for that Bruce, I'll have to check the crystal

[Clive]

Well everything looks ok so far although I've not got the hang of the wrist flick yet

Quick question how do you set the little bleeder, I can get the hour to change but how do you set the minutes, there's only two places to put the magnet one for the time and one for the date, how do you move it on from the first option I've pressed the buttons but nothing?

[bruce wegmann]

Since this is NOT a DOW module, the setting is done exactly as on a P3 [look closely; the two magnet recesses are labeled HR and MIN, and set those two functions, directly]. Month set is DATE button + HR, Date set is BOTH buttons + HR.

[Site admin chimes in...THAT is the most concise setting instruction ever. Seriously, good job Bruce!!]

[Clive]

Both magnet settings are on the left, one left bottom one left top, to set the minutes I need to do what? sorry fro being dim"

[bruce wegmann]

The HR-set recess is the one nearer the Time-demand button. I had to check one of my magnet-set Big Times to be sure. For some reason I cannot fathom, the Swiss cases have the HR and MIN markings silk-screened on in a not-very-durable ink or paint [unlike the Star cases, where the lettering is actually stamped into the metal]. Contact with the setting magnet inevitably scrapes those markings away, leaving the recesses blank, not a matter of concern for the Auto-Set watches [it is VERY rare to see those markings intact; it would have to be a watch that was virtually never used...Swiss-made P3 and Classic cases have the same idiosyncracy...a notable bit of corner-cutting from the Swiss casemakers].

[Clive]

I've managed to set other watches OK but this is becoming a pain, the HR setting seems to work OK but when I out the magnet on the top left (minutes) nothing happens at all, my other watches have the two recesses at the very bottom not on the left could the back be in the wrong position?

[bruce wegmann]

All Pulsar casebacks [except for the P1, Calculators, and Touch-Command models] have a little metal extension [an "indexing tab"] that fits into a matching recess milled into the case. This locks the caseback into a single fixed position, ensuring that the magnet recesses align properly with the setting switches [and that the battery contacts are correctly across the batteries...which is why even the smooth, Auto-Set casebacks have the tab also, at least on the P4s...the Ladies' models have a circular connector that does not require indexing]. You may have a magnet with marginal strength, or a bad minute-set switch.

[Clive]

Aye, it's looking like the minute set switch is faulty, when I put the magnet on the top left switch it brings up the date so looks strong enough but there are no increments and it makes no odds which button I push after that, any idea if these are easily repairable?

Thanks for you help BTW, it's most infuriating being 6 minutes out

[Clive]

Bumpety, anyone know if the minute setting is easily fixed?

[retroleds]

Relatively easy, $35 plus shipping(can't believe I am soliciting for more work).

[Clive]

Relatively easy, $35 plus shipping(can't believe I am soliciting for more work).

Heh, can you tidy up scratches in the crystal as well, I've got another one that needs cleaning up?

PM me an address and I'll box the little fellas up, seperately of course thanks for the help much appreciated