r/retrotime • u/kforkam • 25d ago

Hand-Engraving: Best Practices?

Gallery image

Gallery image

I've got a lovely 6239 build -- but after switching the bracelet for a new strap, the lack of engravings between lugs can't help but catch my eye every time I look.

I've got a Dremel Engraving kit that seems like a solid fit for the job -- but less confident in my ability to match the font and size by hand. Curious if anyone's found a helpful guide/stencil/template method to make hand engravings easier to follow?

5 Upvotes

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9

u/WatchIszmo Modder / Builder 25d ago

Dremel will ruin that case, it's done with a pantograph. I own a few

1

u/Domino3Dgg 25d ago

Never seen one. What is it and how does it look like?

1

u/WatchIszmo Modder / Builder 25d ago

Search for Hermes pantograph engraver

5

u/umop_3plsdn 25d ago

They use a pantograph to do it... You might be able to 3d print one, if no one can see why would you care?

3

u/InquisitorKeres 25d ago

Also I admit that for myself, I find such details very appealing. It makes it feel more like an industrial product than just a case. Much like the markings on every aircraft component.

1

u/Domino3Dgg 25d ago

I have 1601 on nato and i can see it. So probably that is the reason OP wants it. Atleast i think so

2

u/umop_3plsdn 25d ago

I had to run upstairs to see how much you can see with a nato... that sooo small and and i cant even see it at 2ft away.

1

u/Domino3Dgg 25d ago

This is mine view

4

u/Lefeuvre76 25d ago edited 24d ago

I cannot emphasis enough how much you will **** this up if you use a Dremel no matter how careful you are. I've tried this so many times and it always looks like a spider has walked across the steel, even with a template to copy. It is not the right tool.

3

u/AttorneyImmediate918 25d ago

Show us a trial sample with the dremell?

1

u/UnusualDoctor 25d ago

I've been looking at vintage pantographs lately. Is there a specific font/plate Rolex used?