Solid gold casting for replica watches

[jfreeman420]

I was wondering if anyone here has experience or knows what it would take to take a stainless steel replica wtach and make an exact copy of it out of solid 10k, or 14k gold. I have a lot of scrap gold I was saving for a special occasion. I would like to take some of it and make a solid gold yachtmaster replica.

Anyone have any ideas where to go or where to start? If I am totally dillusional please let me know......

[Rolexman]

Angus has an 18k solid gold Daytona with ETA 7750, maybe he can source a Yachty?

Edited September 26, 2007 by Rolexman

[jfreeman420]

I aske dhim already. He says they don't have the right tools for the yacht. If I could just get a case, bezel and bracelet I would be good. I am also thinking that I don't need 18k. 10k or 14k would be cheaper and it's only a replica anyway.

[Raijor]

Have a look on eBay - search for "Geneve" in wristwatches. The generic "Geneve" watches are available in Daytona, Submariner, Daydate in solid 14k and 18k. All you need do to make your own Rolex is a dial swap. I have not seen a Yacht-Master style"Geneve" but have seen the Sub with an a solid gold bezel insert in the Yacht-Master style. Good luck.

Check this one out

"Geneve" Submariner on eBay

One with the solid gold bezel insert

[Guest TTK]

Well...1st thing you'll need is a 3D profiling system...usually laser......then a 3D edge cutter.....3D lathe.....and then you'll need a gas melting furnace...with some crucibles....gloves ....etc etc......followed by a centrifugal lost wax casting machine.....then a finishing polishing machine.....easy peasy.....!

For a how to do....and equipment list....try here...!

http://www.lacywest.com/11casteq.htm

Edited September 26, 2007 by TTK

[jfreeman420]

Thanks for the info TTK, but I was hoping for someone who already had that equipment and was willing to make one watch. I found a place but they want to do 100 pieces minimum.

@Raijor: I thought of those first a long time ago but their yacht model isn't near accurate.

[geo1nah2a]

Thanks for the info TTK, but I was hoping for someone who already had that equipment and was willing to make one watch. I found a place but they want to do 100 pieces minimum.

Maybe we should start a group buy a'la AR run? The problem is that there is no way we can find 100 members that will want the exact same case... Now if you talk about 100 full gold mid links from a TT bracelet, then I am sure this could happen.

PS: You could talk to some local jewlery shop too..Some of them have part of what Neil suggested you buy

[Corgi]

Can someone please tell me how I can see Angus' Daytona?

[jfreeman420]

Maybe we should start a group buy a'la AR run?

I don't even think there are more than 100 people on this board who would wear a gold watch.

@Corgi: Check the eyecandy section. Really nice.