Spiral balance colors

Question

I believe that my old balances are the red type, although they seem orange I believe they are faded.  Is it ok to overshoot and order the black tip instead of the red for the extra strength?

Tom · Accepted Answer

No! Getting a stronger balance spring will not make the windows work better. If you order Black Tip, your balances will be too strong and your window will not work properly.

I believe you were right with your first guess. You likely have Red Tip balances. Orange colored tips are considered Red in the trade. These are delicate systems, and it's important that you get the exact spring strength that you need; no more, no less.