Rusted Hairsprings

From The American Horologist magazine, June 1937

Rusted Hairsprings

We have had inquiries from jewelers and watchmakers who wished to know if there is a preparation on hairsprings to keep them from rusting. We do not place any preparation on hairsprings and do not know of any to prevent rust spots. When the hairsprings alone are placed in packages, they are covered with a fine lime. powder, which prevents any discoloration or rust.

When a hairspring is being cleaned, it should be put in benzine and then very carefully dried in sawdust, so that none of the benzine will cause any rust spots on the spring. Those already on the spring can be cleaned with diamatine or oilstone powder, but great care must be taken in order not to damage the hairspring.