DEC frontpanel switch replica!

[SPC]

Well... I'm needing some of them for my PDP8/E. So I think this is a good idea.

Regards
Sergio

2017-03-16 1:30 GMT+01:00 Philipp Hachtmann via cctalk <cctalk at classiccmp.org>:
> Hi folks,
>
> this might be quite interesting for the folks that miss front panel switch
> handles!
>
> As some of you might know I'm currently working (a bit) on a new batch of
> Omnibus USB boards. And I have announced that there will be a kind of handle
> for the boards this time... I went to my neighbour and showed him some bits
> and pieces. He has a nice little workshop for concrete artwork
> (https://www.fritzundfranz.com/) and spent a lot of time into perfecting his
> moulding skills.
> I gave him a pdp8/e yellow switch handle with broken axle (usual problem) to
> try what can be done.
> Today I came home and he gave me the piece saying that he was unable to
> replicate it. I took it (a bit frustrated) and stated that he has somehow
> ruined the surface... Haha! It was the replica!
> He told me that this was a first "fast" shot including a "rough"
> approximation of the colour.
>
> I was stunned!
>
> Here you can see pictures. Even the defects of the original have been
> replicated.
>
> https://www.dropbox.com/sh/sih4qrrw4o3zgbh/AACf7kY7MbGDLt5FYJgfI4kDa?dl=0
>
> He told me that it was a bit difficult to get the holes at the side right. I
> think that it would be no problem if they'd be more shallow or even gone.
>
> * His material is less translucent than the original. Won't probably change.
> So a perfectionist could spot the difference.
>
> * He states that he can hit colors even better! (Think of the special
> colors!!!)
>
> * The axle stubs would be omitted and made of steel (something I already
> plan for repair of that weakest point)
>
> * He is able to produce flawless finish (remember: it's a raw prototype!)
>
> This is not my business. I told him that I'd ask around if there would be
> serious interest. He is not in vintage computing and does not work for free.
> So one piece would probably cost around 5-15 EUR each, depending on demand,
> color etc.
>
>
> Please give some feedback!
>
>
> Philipp :-)