Watchmakers Lathe

[creativewriting]

Does anyone have experience with a watchmakers/jewelers lathe? I have a line on one and didn't want to spend the cash if it wouldn't turn a pen. The size is great and the workability also seems like a perk. I am not planning on turning anything but pens and pen components so that isn't a factor in my decision.

Advise????

 

[handplane]

It depends on the type you are looking at. Some of them would work better than others. Most that I looked at were very accurate. They did not have a lot of power though. If only used for pens this could work with light cuts. If using a cross slide with a tool holder it would probably be great.

 

[mredburn]

What Brand? As stated by Handplane they lack enough power to turn much more than they were intended for.

 

[creativewriting]

I am looking at a Moseley or Boley. These are older lathes in great condition. The motor is mounted seperately. The Moseley has 1/2 HP and the other (I believe) is the same if not a 3/4. The motors can be replaced, but are currently working just fine.

 

[TomW]

Most dont have tailstock, and very small through hole in headstock. I'd prefer a woodworking lathe.

 

[TheRealSmith]

you could use it to turn pens...(you would need a longer tool rest) also it is very small but the motors can be upgraded. I know a guy in NYC that deals with parts for them if you get it let me know and I will find his number and web address.

Dan
Burlieve it or Knot

 

[creativewriting]

Most dont have tailstock, and very small through hole in headstock. I'd prefer a woodworking lathe.

These both have tailstocks and indexing slides (some collets too). I am one of those that likes to turn one pen barrell at a time so I think the tool rest will be sufficient. I am hoping to make small metal components that I can't currently make on my wood lathe.

 

[jbmauser]

I turned my first pen on a Unimat lathe. It worked out well but it was not great. I moved up to Craftsman lathe. I don't know how much the lathe you are looking at will run you but if the price is close to a Sherline or Tiag I would go for one of those. With them you could turn your own bushings, pin mandrels etc. One last comment, small is handy but not comfortable working, sanding, finishing. A little room is nice. Best of luck, JB

 

[dogcatcher]

I have one that I play with, the only drawback is it doesn't have a live center. You can make a pen or anything else that will fit between the centers. The live center issue can be fixed, but I never saw a need for spending the time or money to make one. Easy to load up and take to our cabin to try out ideas.

Would I want to make all of my pens and calls on it? No way, I prefer a big 300 pound piece of cast iron.

 

[mredburn]

1/2 and 3/4 will do fine for turning pens and pen parts. Variable speed pulleys? I only turn one tube at a time center to center also. Price? taigs are about 450.00 Sherline more but you can get good deals off Ebay. Mike