Input needed: Brushing a buckle to get Ti "look"

[CISO1969]

OK. I got a beautiful strap from TC Straps that is a perfect match for my Ti look auto watch that was a special run made by River a while back (or so I was told )

The problem is it has a sewn in buckle that is polished. Will using a scotch brite pad give it a Ti look? Is there a way to chemically treat it to look more Titanium? Maybe heat and anneal it? But keep in mind I cannopt take it off the strap (and with buckles costing $20 or more, really do not want to!)

Thoughts?

CISO

 

[RqThrottle]

Re: Input needed: Brushing a buckle to get Ti "look&amp

Will using a scotch brite pad give it a Ti look?

No, it will just give it a brushed look.

Is there a way to chemically treat it to look more Titanium? Maybe heat and anneal it?

To each its own, I personally think you should take a step back and re-assess the situation.

 

[hooligan]

IMO, the brushed look will make it look much more like Ti, just not as dark. Not being right next to your Ti case, the buckle will most likely be close enough.

I would think twice about trying to treat it chemically or heat it (you'll lik,ely damage the leather).

I'm kicking around the same notion for my GeF strap that I have on my PAM036, but I haven't done it yet. The difference between the Ti case and the polished buckle hasn't bothered me that much up through this point.

Your strap, your choice.

 

[CISO1969]

Good points and thanks for both of you taking the time to respond.

I don't need it to match "exactly" as pointed out it is on the other side from the watch and not right against it.

I was wondering if scotch bright and then maybe a cold blue, as used on pistols and rifle metal, then a quick wipe down and maybe light steel wool might eventually give it the look?

The other issue, as also pointed out, is I could damage the leather.

I think I may just give it a brushed look and see if I like it and go from there.

Maybe I'll break down in a few months, cut off the fixed buckle and add a screw in buckle that has been pre-treated if I really want a match.

Thanks guys for letting me brain storm a bit.

CISO

 

[hooligan]

I had a Ti watch with a brushed SS buckle in the past, it wasn't 100%, but it matched as good as anything that wasn't actually Ti. FWIW.

 

[bigbadbrad]

MF

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I suggest you keep the TC and go to manifatture firenze and order one of theirs - they have Ti buckles (pre-V) as an option at check-out, i.e. sewn in.

 

[CISO1969]

Thanks BBB...I checked out the site, but alas, way too much $ for my budget.


Thanks again,

CISO

 

[vaccum]

Go with enzo's advise.

vaccum