Rotary Engraving Machine?

[Ed Newbold]

I have an opportunity to add a Hermes Engravograph ITF-KII to my shop and was wondering if anyone has any experience with a machine of this type. The seller has two of them but only needs one of them. Since I do laser engravings for him on a regular basis, he offered the machine to me first. Asking price is $325 and it comes with "several" fonts. It appears to be in relatively good condition, and I've been needing something to tackle those metal engraving projects that people are always asking me about. Any thoughts? Thanks,

[Kenneth Hertzog]

ED
I have one that is powered and can be changed to a diamond drag.
would not be without it. Like you said for those other jobs.
For what he is asking and it comes with fonts its well worth the money.
IMHO
ken

[Mike Null]

Ed

Does it have the diamond drag spindle?

A general value for a used font set is about $100. If it comes with 3 or 4 sets consider the machine to be free.

A word of warning-----buying this machine will soon lead to buying a computerized rotary/diamond drag machine.

I also have an engraving manual (general purpose) on pdf. If you'd like to have it pm your email address.

[Mark Winlund]

I agree with the other posts.... get it! That is a very good deal. You will find lots of uses for it. I have an IRX-KII with the one to one arm, and, while I don't use it a lot, every now and then it saves the day. As was said in a previous post, any complete font goes for $100 on ebay, so the machine is free. If you eventually get a CNC engraver, you can make your own fonts and logos for the pantograph. A lot of people make a good living with just pantographs. Your next goal should be to find one of the GT series machines so you can do bowls and cups.

Mark

[Tony Lenkic]

Ed,

That is table top machine for flat work if memory serves.

Like Mark said, GT machine is better suited for round and add shape objects and usually comes with number of workholding jigs.

For $325.00 you cant go wrong on this one if it comes with few fonts and rotary motor. For drag engraving you will need attachment unless d-drag option is included.

[David Lavaneri]

Ed,

What types of metal engraving jobs have you been turning down?

The machine you're mentioning is better-suited for rotary engraving than diamond drag, although capable enough for both.

Deep engraving in metal, to be color-filled, is an area where you won't find much competition and may be a good niche for you.

As others have mentioned, the price makes your decision a no-brainer.

David "The Stunt Engraver" Lavaneri

[Mike Null]

Ed

Here's a web site I've found to be helpful.

http://www.antaresinc.net/2004EngMain.html