Tools for cutting dials

[Mattaphysics]

Yeah... Obviously out of my price range. But I know you can just buy enameled dials but the problem is finding something to punch holes and windows for other complications. Would a staking set accomplish this? Then you can also just paint it yourself of course. Has anyone done this and is it feasible? 

[jdm]

37 minutes ago, Mattaphysics said:

But I know you can just buy enameled dials but the problem is finding something to punch holes and windows for other complications. Would a staking set accomplish this?

No, the staking set is for delicate, low force work. They use an impact press for that at the factory. However you can cut any shape with a small drill bit and a piercing saw.

[Mattaphysics]

2 hours ago, jdm said:

No, the staking set is for delicate, low force work. They use an impact press for that at the factory. However you can cut any shape with a small drill bit and a piercing saw.

Ok so is there a special tool or just find a drill bit (I know there are special watchmakers drills but not sure what bits to get) then, obviously have a template to ensure correctness, saw the shape out and buff any burrs.

Ok thought, what about one of those mini electric drill/engravers and use that to cut like for instance a day/date window or a hole for a complication? It's that possible or will it damage the dial?

[jdm]

18 hours ago, Mattaphysics said:

Ok so is there a special tool or just find a drill bit (I know there are special watchmakers drills but not sure what bits to get) then, obviously have a template to ensure correctness, saw the shape out and buff any burrs.

Ok thought, what about one of those mini electric drill/engravers and use that to cut like for instance a day/date window or a hole for a complication? It's that possible or will it damage the dial?

Drilling is done just to insert the saw blade, so any size will do.
You should learn do things by hand first, like in the good old times. Most DIY electric tools are not for watch work, because as mentioned watches require much more precise and delicate work.

[Mattaphysics]

Ok then, what exactly am I looking for? I searched for mini saw, precision hand saw and nothing that I could use. What is the saw used for that? I apologise for taking the touch over it wasn't intended just one thing after another.

[jdm]

3 hours ago, Mattaphysics said:

Ok then, what exactly am I looking for? I searched for mini saw, precision hand saw and nothing that I could use. What is the saw used for that? I apologise for taking the touch over it wasn't intended just one thing after another.

Check: https://www.cousinsuk.com/category/saws-blades-frames-fret-piercing

I'm sure that your hardware store has something similar.

[Mattaphysics]

Many thanks for pointing me in the right direction.

[Mattaphysics]

Ok, so checking out AliX and found this:

a2706.7835515.1998800312.26.4d1e5da7n0tmav

So what are the limits of this machine? I'll need a dial plate right to make the pattern on the dial? Anything helps, thanks

[jdm]

You can post the AliX link.
Yes, you need an engraved plate, that is the pre-requisite for pad printing.