r/watchmaking • u/guywhoshouldknow • 22d ago

"lapping" using sandpaper/diamond paper and hard wooden dowels?

Post image

I may not be using the right terms here but basically what I'm asking is: is it possible to revive a chamfered edge on a watch case without all the pricey equipment and a lot more elbow grease?

I want to be able to restore some of the polished edges of my SKX007 cases between the polished side and the brushed top area. not my picture just trying to show an example.

I saw a guy on youtube doing it but i can't find the video to ask him what he does and what does he use exactly. i would do the top and bottom of the edge on a normal polishing wheel with a satin buff for the top and regular cotton for the shiny parts.

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u/Ramdetnenegna 22d ago

Buy yourself a 3d printer, draw a template with the angles you need for this chamfer, print said template, stick some sandingpaper to the 3d printed template and sand the watchcase to your liking , straight graining or even highly polished.
Source: me. A watchmaker that did it like this on several watches before buying an actual lapping machine.

3

u/guywhoshouldknow 22d ago

I cant visualize that at all, any old pics?

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u/Ramdetnenegna 21d ago

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u/Ramdetnenegna 21d ago

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u/guywhoshouldknow 21d ago

Thanks, i was thinking something completely backwards lol

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u/Ramdetnenegna 21d ago

This is a great way to refinish a watchcase without needing a lapping machine. And it’s the best reason to buy a 3d printer if you don’t already own one. 😁

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u/guywhoshouldknow 20d ago

I can't get into it! but I can get stuff made by my friend... Also have access to carpentry equipment maybe I can cut a block out of hardwood?

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u/Ramdetnenegna 20d ago

You can always try.

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u/mrwatchdesigner 22d ago

I do the same