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Making dial markers/chapters

gkmaia

By gkmaia
in Watch Repairs Help & Advice

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gkmaia WRT Addict

gkmaia

Posted
Posted

I finally managed to get some good prints out or my dial pad printer. 

I want to try and make my own markers/chapters. 

What technique did they use back in the day to make numbers and markers?

Did they use punches? Are there books or articles showing how that was made?

 

 

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Klassiker Distinguished Member

Klassiker

Posted
Posted (edited)

I don't know the answer to your question, other than it probably involved a large number of expensive tools and specialised machinery. If you only want to do one-offs or small series, then you need different methods anyway.

You could check out what @Angrybear is up to. He may have some useful ideas for you.

 

Edited by Klassiker
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Angrybear WRT Addict

Angrybear

Posted
Posted
  On 12/10/2021 at 7:52 AM, gkmaia said:

I am wondering how they did that on the early 1900s. The first tools and techniques to make them.

 

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I’m guessing the methods changed as technology progressed. The first markers would have been engraved with a lot of skill and marking tools directly into the dial. Later applied markers probably used some sort of pantograph, and then much later cnc. I may be wrong on this, if anyone knows better please correct me. 
If you want to create your own your best bet is probably to use photo etching on very thin sheet metal. I know most companies go down to 0.15mm brass sheet, and probably 0.25mm for nickel silver. You can do this at home with much trial and error and the appropriate supplies. 

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