I’ve been interested in the application of engraving dials, scales and small name plates for a while and more latterly seen the possibilities of milling small complex parts from 2D masters using a pantograph engraver and ‘copy text’, photo 1.
My research into engraving devices, shows that there are multiple options from relatively inexpensive CNC based machines from China to second-hand professional desktop pantograph machines which used to be common in high street jewellers and various shops selling trophies and dog tags. Proxxon make a relatively simple pantograph engraver which can be used with their portable rotary tools or small mill/drills. Larger, ex-industry, floor standing machines such as the Alexander or Taylor Hobson can be reasonably priced, and I would have loved to acquire one but decided that it would…
