31 hours power reserve normal?

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Hey guys,

I am very new to automatic watches and would appreciate your input.

Bought a gorgeous CV211A (Carrera Calibre 17 Ltd) full set from watchuseek.
I love it, but the power reserve seems to be way under the estimated 42 hours, it is barely 30. Should I worry?
Also, I when I wind it (usually at least around 40 times) I can randomly hear a quiet click/cracling sound. Is this normal?

Thank you,

Matt
 
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No, it should go longer than 42 hours. The spec is a worst case number, likely to get a couple hours more. It could be several things but a broken mainspring is likely. Some automatics will click when the mainspring slips on the inside of the barrel. I personally have never heard it but my hearing is terrible. As far as being random, it depends on whether the barrel is smooth inside or has pockets in the inner wall. I believe ETAs are smooth so breakaway may be more random. If the spring is broken, then obviously the broken end of the spring is going to slip on the rest of the spring, probably a lot more random.

Time to have it looked at.

Fortunately, you can get to the mainspring without having to remove the chrono module. Unfortunately, the chrono module is not serviceable and must be replaced as a unit. Double unfortunately, removing and replacing the chrono module requires a special holder that nobody has, so most watchmakers won't touch them. Oh, and the module costs $450, if you can get one. TAG will probably insist on replacing it as part of the service.

I own a Cal 17 Link but it's brand new. Maybe someone else has some experience getting one serviced and can share their opinion.

Sorry for the bad news.