In a message dated 18/10/05, charles.r.patton@........ writes:

Hi Charles,

       Thanks. 

       We have been experimenting with used BIC pens. The medium size is 
fitted with a 1mm tungsten carbide ball and a convenient cylindrical brass holder. 
They clean up with meths quite nicely and extend the rundown of a pendulum by 
about a factor of x10 over a 2 thou brass foil suspension. Adding some light 
clock oil extends the period quite a bit further. 

       McMaster also carry SS and Carbide balls and Carbide rods. Crossed 
cylinder carbide suspensions are also good.

       Regards,

       Chris Chapman
In a message=20=
dated 18/10/05, charles.r.patton@........ writes:



Hi Charles,



       Thanks.=20



       We have been experimenting with use=
d BIC pens. The medium size is fitted with a 1mm tungsten carbide ball and a=
 convenient cylindrical brass holder. They clean up with meths quite nicely=20=
and extend the rundown of a pendulum by about a factor of x10 over a 2 thou=20=
brass foil suspension. Adding some light clock oil extends the period quite=20=
a bit further.=20



       McMaster also carry SS and Carbide=20=
balls and Carbide rods. Crossed cylinder carbide suspensions are also good.



       Regards,



       Chris Chapman