Hey guys...
Just thought I'd put in my two cents.
I've been at this for awhile,. and while not an expert at anything,,
, I can get answers for most things, and can give some decent advice ( according to Bob ).
Dan,..Jim has some good advice and ideas with which to get you started.
I'm going to add to what he's posted, with my own experiences as well.
Pocket watches are definitely the way to go for starters.
Rodico- yes. I used it along with other stuff to ungunk items as I get them, then hand wash cases with a brush, etc.
I also use it to hold small items, and to get specks of stuff off of movements, dials, etc.
Don't get in the habit of using it for cleaning though,..it will leave traces behind.
Naptha and Alcohol work well. You may find that using "regent" grade alcohol ( 97% ?) will leave less of a film on movement parts after your final rinse. You can find it in most pharmacies, and it's not expensive- just more pure.
#3 tweezers are perfect for many chores. I find that I use brass one's more than the steel. Less chance of leaving a scratch somewhere. The steel are perfect for when you need to hold something a bit stronger.
Jim,...what type of mainspring winder do you have ?
Sometimes you end up using a smaller "head" than you think you need to, in order to shoot the new spring in. Also,..those springs that come already coiled can sometimes be wound tight enough to just rest them over the barrel, and nudge them in with the edge of soft tweezers or something similar.
Best of luck to you all,..and if I can help..please ask
Randy