REAMERS
Reamers are hand cutting and gauging tools used by the Horologist (watchmaker) to finish, adjust or precisely enlarge a hole drilled in a component. The term derives its origin from the word square and refers, by extension, to tools whose shaft features sharp “squared” edges — triangular, square or polygonal — which ensure the progressive removal of material through manual rotation.
In its most common form in watchmaking, the Reamer takes the shape of a hardened Steel rod, slightly tapered, with a five- or six-sided cross-section. Inserted by hand into a round-profile hole, it gauges its diameter by removing extremely fine shavings as the Horologist (watchmaker) rotates it back and forth. This sober geometry gives the tool great tactile sensitivity: machining can be stopped as soon as the fit is achieved, without risk of suddenly gouging the material.
The taper of the rod allows, in every case, the hole to be approached at its thinnest section and then progressed to the desired dimension.
At the Bench, the Horologist (watchmaker) uses the Reamer to gauge a Bearing hole before fitting a jewel, adjust the passage of a Screw or a dowel, or even straighten a hole slightly ovalized through use. The tool is held directly by hand or with a handle; it is never driven by a machine.
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