I have an old set of Helios calipers that I found in my FIL's shop. They need a deep cleaning, but most importantly, the needle on the face is loose. Any idea where I can go to get it fixed? I'd like to get them cleaned up and back in good order.

Put them up and preserve the sentimental value, you can buy a quality set for sub $50.

They are simply not worth damaging the sentimental value or the cost of refurbishing.


If you are serious about getting them refurbished, find a tool store, dedicated to machinist or metal work, not one that has machinist or metal working tools but deals primarily in hand tools like power saws or wood working tools.

I’d take my money to a man who repairs clocks/watches

Oh, good call. Now that's thinking outside the box!

I think the sentimental value will be better placed in actually using them.

This was my first thought. But the first two watch repair places I called said no.

Put them on display close to the loading bench and tell the grand kids " this is what grandpa used".

This is the answer

knock the heavy stuff off, maybe reline box

Have you contacted Helios?

Are they still in business?

MRS in Odessa might work on those for you.

Toss them and buy new

You can try and contact these people. I do not know them and have not had any repairs done by them. The cost may be more than you are willing to pay.

https://www.texasindicator.com/

https://www.indicatorrepair.com/services/dial-vernier-digital-caliper-repair

http://www.longislandindicator.com/p44.html

You may watch this and do it your self

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u1Syy-BX258

No. Why would I make it that simple? What's wrong with you?

Evidently, they are still in business. However, I found a jewler yesterday afternoon that said he would work on it. I dropped t off yesterday.

I have tools and instruments as old as the calipers in question. MADE IN USA, made in Switzerland, Germany, and Japan. All are older than me, and still doing a fine job. Buying "new" often means paying for Chinese (near) slave labor, and lower quality. A whole lot of old tools are worth refurbishing, and appreciating the craftsmanship that went into them.

Anyone that owns, and still uses a Mousehole forge anvil can say their anvil is damn sure old. And probably high quality. An excerpt from an article about the forge: "The site’s continuous use from at least 1632 to 1933 is exceptional, reaching its fullest extent by the 1890s."