I'm using Uniters and I've tried a couple times to smooth the edge with the iron. It never seems to actually smooth anything out. Instead it feels sticky and if anything makes the finish worse by introducing some "smearing" marks. Does this imply that I need more heat to actually get the EP to liquify and flow? Or would that burn it? I know Uniters says not to exceed 240 C. My iron is currently set to 150 C, but I don't know what temp is actually at the tip. Probably less than that if I had to guess.
Thanks!
You can't talk watches without a pic haha. I think you are totally right. People would flip out if the bracelet links were misaligned or a few screws were proud of the rest. But a sloppy stitch here and there or a mediocre edge finish and I guess people don't notice. Or maybe they tell themselves this is actually desirable because it shows it is hand made? I believe in order to be a watch lover you have to home in on small details, so I'm surprised more people, even non-leatherworkers, don't fuss about strap nuances.
The green dial is gorgeous. I'd encourage you to try the medium size on a few times before making a final decision. I'm 6'4" and have a 7" wrist but still felt the medium size, being square, was plenty big and really looked the part for this classic model.
Hey Crank,
Well, if you even run out of black edge paint, try 240c and any color will turn black 🤣
Likely you need more heat, however I get the desired effect from around 100c. May I ask what you're using to test the heat with? If it's the unit, they are generally unreliable, especially if the heating coil on the tip is compromised. I use an Infrared Thermometer to test mine.
Remember, applying heat to an edge isn't meant for leveling or moving high spots of edge paint build up, it is a final process to be performed on a well sanded edge that looks perfect already. You are simply turning it from a matte finish from the sanding process, to a polished one.