Author Topic: [IC] Custom Engraved Brass Keycaps (Read 28209 times)

Photekq · « **on:** Fri, 19 July 2013, 11:04:32 »

PROTOTYPES IN : http://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=45974.msg970004#msg970004

Would anyone be interested in a simple, square shaped brass keycap with their own custom engraving on it? There's no profile to cut down on costs. Looks like this :

I have ordered a prototype which should be coming in a few weeks. I expect (note the word expect - i can't guarantee anything) these will cost around £15-25 each depending on numbers.

The engraving is COMPLETELY custom. You can put whatever you want on it. The only limitation is that, since these are being machined, internal corners will have to have a radius.

Thanks and let me know what you think.

SpAmRaY · « **Reply #1 on:** Fri, 19 July 2013, 11:11:07 »

You now I'll buy at least one just to have bro!!!...I think it should say sPaMrAy

SidusNare · « **Reply #2 on:** Fri, 19 July 2013, 11:13:43 »

Well, it seems we need to get down to brass tacks on this :-p

What are you going to do with the top, it looks totally flat, are you going to give it a cylindrical or spherical profile? I know it would be more, but I don't think totally flat would be very appealing.

Photekq · « **Reply #3 on:** Fri, 19 July 2013, 11:15:50 »

Good to hear you're interested ray

Quote from: SidusNare on Fri, 19 July 2013, 11:13:43

Well, it seems we need to get down to brass tacks on this :-p

What are you going to do with the top, it looks totally flat, are you going to give it a cylindrical or spherical profile? I know it would be more, but I don't think totally flat would be very appealing.

I didn't give it a profile to cut down on costs. You would be surprised how much more expensive a keycap with a profile is.

Binge · « **Reply #4 on:** Fri, 19 July 2013, 11:18:17 »

I'm in. I want some seriously badass seal(emblem) style engraving

Photekq · « **Reply #5 on:** Fri, 19 July 2013, 11:39:11 »

Seal emblem engraving?

Tym · « **Reply #6 on:** Fri, 19 July 2013, 11:42:06 »

Seal Ingraving?

esoomenona · « **Reply #7 on:** Fri, 19 July 2013, 11:42:56 »

Can you engrave a moose on it?

Also, what height are they? Similar to top row? Would bottom row be possible (nice for some Fn keys)?

SpAmRaY · « **Reply #8 on:** Fri, 19 July 2013, 11:45:33 »

Quote from: Photekq on Fri, 19 July 2013, 11:39:11

Seal emblem engraving?

Quote from: Tym on Fri, 19 July 2013, 11:42:06

Seal Ingraving?

Show Image

Navy Seal maybe?

Photekq · « **Reply #9 on:** Fri, 19 July 2013, 12:22:50 »

Quote from: esoomenona on Fri, 19 July 2013, 11:42:56

Can you engrave a moose on it?

Also, what height are they? Similar to top row? Would bottom row be possible (nice for some Fn keys)?

They will be 1cm high, which is about the same height as f-row cherry profile keys. You could use them for bottom row, but since they have no profile they might not match too well. I think they would work best as an esc key or even as the three media keys that some boards have.
I can engrave a moose if you can provide a fairly simple vector. These can't be extremely complex due to the small canvas (18x18mm)

Quote from: SpAmRaY on Fri, 19 July 2013, 11:45:33

Quote from: Photekq on Fri, 19 July 2013, 11:39:11
Seal emblem engraving?

Quote from: Tym on Fri, 19 July 2013, 11:42:06
Seal Ingraving?

Show Image

Navy Seal maybe?

[ Attachment Invalid Or Does Not Exist ]

That's what I was thinking initially.. I'm still confused :confused:

mashby · « **Reply #10 on:** Fri, 19 July 2013, 14:54:30 »

I would be interested.

Photekq · « **Reply #11 on:** Fri, 19 July 2013, 15:18:02 »

Here's an example of what could be done

Kempher · « **Reply #12 on:** Tue, 23 July 2013, 01:12:49 »

Not a bad concept, any idea which row these will fit, or when you say no profile, are you going to keep it completely flat?

SeriouSSpotS · « **Reply #13 on:** Tue, 23 July 2013, 10:59:36 »

I would be interested.

codyeatworld · « **Reply #14 on:** Tue, 23 July 2013, 11:01:57 »

I would want a couple with engraving!

Photekq · « **Reply #15 on:** Tue, 23 July 2013, 11:07:19 »

Quote from: Kempher on Tue, 23 July 2013, 01:12:49

Not a bad concept, any idea which row these will fit, or when you say no profile, are you going to keep it completely flat?

They are square-shaped. Completely flat.

I have my prototypes here now. They're absolutely beautiful and my machinist has done a great job of the engraving. They're also bulky as hell (weight 25g each) and have an amazing feel to them. I need to smooth some things out with them before I even think about selling any though.

They're hard to photograph since they're so shiny.. but this should give a good idea of how it looks. I'm afraid I don't have an MX board to put it on atm.

calavera · « **Reply #16 on:** Tue, 23 July 2013, 11:15:11 »

Curious as to how these would look on a board though, like does the height match with row1 (function row)?

Photekq · « **Reply #17 on:** Tue, 23 July 2013, 11:16:11 »

Quote from: calavera on Tue, 23 July 2013, 11:15:11

Curious as to how these would look on a board though, like does the height match with row1 (function row)?

These are 1cm high, very close to the height of Cherry profile R1 caps. I'm curious too. I think they'd be most suited to esc, or as media keys.

MOZ · « **Reply #18 on:** Tue, 23 July 2013, 11:17:52 »

Looks real nice. If only it were spherical.

Kempher · « **Reply #19 on:** Tue, 23 July 2013, 13:01:13 »

Quote from: Photekq on Tue, 23 July 2013, 11:07:19

Quote from: Kempher on Tue, 23 July 2013, 01:12:49
Not a bad concept, any idea which row these will fit, or when you say no profile, are you going to keep it completely flat?
They are square-shaped. Completely flat.

I have my prototypes here now. They're absolutely beautiful and my machinist has done a great job of the engraving. They're also bulky as hell (weight 25g each) and have an amazing feel to them. I need to smooth some things out with them before I even think about selling any though.

They're hard to photograph since they're so shiny.. but this should give a good idea of how it looks. I'm afraid I don't have an MX board to put it on atm.

Show Image

It really does look fantastic. Very heavy though, you'll need a heavier spring under that bad boy to compensate. I wonder if anyone would fill an entire keyboard with these lol.

Photekq · « **Reply #20 on:** Tue, 23 July 2013, 13:04:26 »

Quote from: Kempher on Tue, 23 July 2013, 13:01:13

Quote from: Photekq on Tue, 23 July 2013, 11:07:19
Quote from: Kempher on Tue, 23 July 2013, 01:12:49
Not a bad concept, any idea which row these will fit, or when you say no profile, are you going to keep it completely flat?
They are square-shaped. Completely flat.

I have my prototypes here now. They're absolutely beautiful and my machinist has done a great job of the engraving. They're also bulky as hell (weight 25g each) and have an amazing feel to them. I need to smooth some things out with them before I even think about selling any though.

They're hard to photograph since they're so shiny.. but this should give a good idea of how it looks. I'm afraid I don't have an MX board to put it on atm.

Show Image

It really does look fantastic. Very heavy though, you'll need a heavier spring under that bad boy to compensate. I wonder if anyone would fill an entire keyboard with these lol.

I don't think you'd want to put it on a key you use frequently :)) At least it isn't 50g.. then you wouldn't even be able to use it on lighter switches. Thanks for the compliment :)

MOZ · « **Reply #21 on:** Tue, 23 July 2013, 20:59:25 »

Good thing, I am getting 80g springs

Lu_e · « **Reply #22 on:** Wed, 24 July 2013, 13:00:39 »

Lead-free?

neoezekiel · « **Reply #23 on:** Wed, 24 July 2013, 13:09:45 »

Quote from: Lu_e on Wed, 24 July 2013, 13:00:39

Lead-free?

Since when did Brass contain Lead?

Also I am in for a few of these once you start selling

Lu_e · « **Reply #24 on:** Thu, 25 July 2013, 15:01:42 »

Quote from: neoezekiel on Wed, 24 July 2013, 13:09:45

Quote from: Lu_e on Wed, 24 July 2013, 13:00:39
Lead-free?

Since when did Brass contain Lead?

Also I am in for a few of these once you start selling

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brass#Lead_content

Photekq · « **Reply #25 on:** Thu, 25 July 2013, 15:07:55 »

I will ask my machinist about the lead content. Is it very important to you?

Photekq · « **Reply #26 on:** Thu, 25 July 2013, 15:42:03 »

The brass is a grade that contains small amounts of lead. It allows it to be machined easier.

Tym · « **Reply #27 on:** Thu, 25 July 2013, 15:47:37 »

I'm pretty sure its fine unless you decide to ingest the key or put it in your water supply.

Photekq · « **Reply #28 on:** Thu, 25 July 2013, 15:54:12 »

Quote from: Tym on Thu, 25 July 2013, 15:47:37

I'm pretty sure its fine unless you decide to ingest the key or put it in your water supply.

Yeah. It's totally fine. Even an entirely lead keycap would be fine.. It's not going to poison anyone

)

SpAmRaY · « **Reply #29 on:** Thu, 25 July 2013, 15:55:26 »

Quote from: Photekq on Thu, 25 July 2013, 15:54:12

Quote from: Tym on Thu, 25 July 2013, 15:47:37
I'm pretty sure its fine unless you decide to ingest the key or put it in your water supply.
Yeah. It's totally fine. Even an entirely lead keycap would be fine.. It's not going to poison anyone )

But be sure if you send any to California it's labeled as containing a toxic substance.

neoezekiel · « **Reply #30 on:** Mon, 29 July 2013, 13:17:45 »

Quote from: Lu_e on Thu, 25 July 2013, 15:01:42

Quote from: neoezekiel on Wed, 24 July 2013, 13:09:45
Quote from: Lu_e on Wed, 24 July 2013, 13:00:39
Lead-free?

Since when did Brass contain Lead?

Also I am in for a few of these once you start selling
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brass#Lead_content

I humbly eat my words.

MOZ · « **Reply #31 on:** Wed, 07 August 2013, 20:17:56 »

Photekq, would it be at all possible to share the CAD files for these, I would like to see if the local machinist can make these, I might get him to try on other materials as well, such as SS, Alu.

SpAmRaY · « **Reply #32 on:** Fri, 09 August 2013, 15:27:08 »

Quote from: SpAmRaY on Fri, 19 July 2013, 11:11:07

You now I'll buy at least one just to have bro!!!...I think it should say sPaMrAy

^^

fydo · « **Reply #33 on:** Fri, 09 August 2013, 15:39:49 »

I'd be interested depending on price.

Looks pretty cool. How is the fit on the Cherry MX stem? I have heard that metal keycaps will sometimes fit very tightly.

Photekq · « **Reply #34 on:** Fri, 09 August 2013, 20:14:22 »

Quote from: mohitgarg on Wed, 07 August 2013, 20:17:56

Photekq, would it be at all possible to share the CAD files for these, I would like to see if the local machinist can make these, I might get him to try on other materials as well, such as SS, Alu.

No, not at the moment. I'm still playing with the design and waiting to hear back from testers. Maybe at a later date, but at the moment I still have many things to change.

Quote from: SpAmRaY on Fri, 09 August 2013, 15:27:08

Quote from: SpAmRaY on Fri, 19 July 2013, 11:11:07
You now I'll buy at least one just to have bro!!!...I think it should say sPaMrAy

^^

Soon. Soon

Quote from: fydo on Fri, 09 August 2013, 15:39:49

I'd be interested depending on price.
Looks pretty cool. How is the fit on the Cherry MX stem? I have heard that metal keycaps will sometimes fit very tightly.

The original prototypes (with TEK logo) were very tight. The V2s I had made for Bunny and HoffmanMyster fit very, very well.

MKULTRA · « **Reply #35 on:** Fri, 09 August 2013, 20:54:58 »

I'd be in.

You should look into blockers...

Photekq · « **Reply #36 on:** Fri, 09 August 2013, 20:56:13 »

Quote from: MKULTRA on Fri, 09 August 2013, 20:54:58

I'd be in.

You should look into blockers...

Different cases have different heights for their bezels.. It's hard to make it look nice.

HoffmanMyster · « **Reply #37 on:** Sat, 10 August 2013, 00:23:04 »

Okay everybody. If this doesn't get you excited for these I don't know what will! Welcome to the dark side.

In case it isn't clear, the logo on this is raised, rather than being engraved and cut into the cap. I really like the look.

Please enjoy the photos below and an album with 11 additional photos here.

DSC01862 by HoffmanMyster, on Flickr

DSC01924 by HoffmanMyster, on Flickr

DSC01903 by HoffmanMyster, on Flickr

Different lighting

DSC01917 by HoffmanMyster, on Flickr

DSC01920 by HoffmanMyster, on Flickr

For reference, here is the image I sent:

kenmai9 · « **Reply #38 on:** Sat, 10 August 2013, 00:32:01 »

I would be interested in one with a Darth Vader etching? That would look so badass..

MOZ · « **Reply #39 on:** Sat, 10 August 2013, 03:03:54 »

Quote from: HoffmanMyster on Sat, 10 August 2013, 00:23:04

Okay everybody. If this doesn't get you excited for these I don't know what will! Welcome to the dark side.

In case it isn't clear, the logo on this is raised, rather than being engraved and cut into the cap. I really like the look.

Please enjoy the photos below and an album with 11 additional photos here.

Show Image

DSC01862 by HoffmanMyster, on Flickr

Show Image

DSC01924 by HoffmanMyster, on Flickr

Show Image

DSC01903 by HoffmanMyster, on Flickr

Different lighting
Show Image

DSC01917 by HoffmanMyster, on Flickr

Show Image

DSC01920 by HoffmanMyster, on Flickr

For reference, here is the image I sent:
Show Image

I fell in love when I saw that, the design is perfect for the keycap, reminds you of old navy seals, or pirates, ships, colonial days.

MOZ · « **Reply #40 on:** Sat, 10 August 2013, 03:04:47 »

--- Double Post ---

MOZ · « **Reply #41 on:** Sat, 10 August 2013, 04:00:39 »

If I can, I would get this:

Else:

CalmB4tehPwn · « **Reply #42 on:** Sat, 10 August 2013, 07:30:51 »

oOOHH, GoT House Sigils.

I love it, but I'd also like to see a quote on a key with... any profile. Spherical might be cool with a brass keycap. But I just want some profile, at all.

SpAmRaY · « **Reply #43 on:** Sat, 10 August 2013, 07:37:25 »

Quote from: Photekq on Fri, 09 August 2013, 20:14:22

Quote from: SpAmRaY on Fri, 09 August 2013, 15:27:08
Quote from: SpAmRaY on Fri, 19 July 2013, 11:11:07
You now I'll buy at least one just to have bro!!!...I think it should say sPaMrAy

^^
Soon. Soon

Just dont' forget about me bro!!

fydo · « **Reply #44 on:** Thu, 29 August 2013, 23:06:24 »

Any word on this?

KangarooZombies · « **Reply #45 on:** Fri, 30 August 2013, 00:03:06 »

That prototype looks kick ass photeq.

Photekq · « **Reply #46 on:** Fri, 30 August 2013, 02:32:27 »

Quote from: fydo on Thu, 29 August 2013, 23:06:24

Any word on this?

Next revision coming soon

Quote from: KangarooZombies on Fri, 30 August 2013, 00:03:06

That prototype looks kick ass photeq.

Thanks man

noisyturtle · « **Reply #47 on:** Fri, 30 August 2013, 07:38:25 »

Quote from: Photekq on Fri, 30 August 2013, 02:32:27

Quote from: fydo on Thu, 29 August 2013, 23:06:24
Any word on this?
Next revision coming soon

I are excite

LechnerDE · « **Reply #48 on:** Fri, 30 August 2013, 08:00:09 »

Quote from: kenmai9 on Sat, 10 August 2013, 00:32:01

Can I get one with a Darth Vader etching? That would look so badass..

+1

I wouldn't mind a storm trooper either

MOZ · « **Reply #49 on:** Fri, 30 August 2013, 13:13:35 »

Waiting.

frogamic · « **Reply #50 on:** Sat, 07 September 2013, 07:26:35 »

I'd get one with a raised brass knuckle on it

kenmai9 · « **Reply #51 on:** Sun, 08 September 2013, 13:59:53 »

Quote from: LechnerDE on Fri, 30 August 2013, 08:00:09

Quote from: kenmai9 on Sat, 10 August 2013, 00:32:01
Can I get one with a Darth Vader etching? That would look so badass..

+1

I wouldn't mind a storm trooper either

I just had a brilliant idea.. Darth Vader... over marijuana leaf background.. on brass... /dead

frogamic · « **Reply #52 on:** Mon, 09 September 2013, 07:42:21 »

I made a couple of possible designs in Inventor, if possible I'd like to get the knuckle duster one, if you're still making these.

Photekq · « **Reply #53 on:** Mon, 09 September 2013, 09:12:28 »

Quote from: frogamic on Mon, 09 September 2013, 07:42:21

I made a couple of possible designs in Inventor, if possible I'd like to get the knuckle duster one, if you're still making these.

Still in kinda semi-beta phase, so they aren't readily available (yet). Knuckle duster looks really nice though

CPTBadAss · « **Reply #54 on:** Mon, 09 September 2013, 09:15:23 »

Brass knuckle brass cap looks incredible haha

HesterDW · « **Reply #55 on:** Sat, 14 September 2013, 22:53:25 »

Definitely interested. I would love to have the Half Life lambda on one of these.

Tym · « **Reply #56 on:** Sun, 15 September 2013, 03:49:53 »

Quote from: HesterDW on Sat, 14 September 2013, 22:53:25

Definitely interested. I would love to have the Half Life lambda on one of these.

+1

That's genius, although if he calls and wants it too be a one-off that's fine.

AlexJP · « **Reply #57 on:** Sun, 15 September 2013, 13:21:29 »

I want!

Sephiroth · « **Reply #58 on:** Sat, 21 September 2013, 04:12:44 »

what a geek! awesome!!

sherryton · « **Reply #59 on:** Sat, 21 September 2013, 04:51:47 »

These looks so odd... I am in!

Puddsy · « **Reply #60 on:** Mon, 23 September 2013, 16:17:17 »

I'd buy a few. Probably get some weird looks from everyone at school, but dammit they look too good.

acer589 · « **Reply #61 on:** Wed, 02 October 2013, 22:09:36 »

**** looks expensive.

tjcaustin · « **Reply #62 on:** Wed, 02 October 2013, 22:11:34 »

Any chance you could get these cut with a topre stem?

Photekq · « **Reply #63 on:** Thu, 03 October 2013, 02:35:45 »

Quote from: tjcaustin on Wed, 02 October 2013, 22:11:34

Any chance you could get these cut with a topre stem?

I'm sure it could be done. I would like to get the MX design perfected before I try it though.

Photekq · « **Reply #64 on:** Wed, 09 October 2013, 14:39:02 »

I need a tester. (currently have 3 testers, need 4) Keycap will be made for you in the next few weeks. It'll cost around £30-35+shipping. You can choose normal engraving, negative engraving (like the starwars one) and you can ofc have your own design.

PM me if interested.

nubbinator · « **Reply #65 on:** Wed, 09 October 2013, 14:45:19 »

Quote from: Photekq on Wed, 09 October 2013, 14:39:02

I need a tester. (currently have 3 testers, need 4) Keycap will be made for you in the next few weeks. It'll cost around £30-35+shipping. You can choose normal engraving, negative engraving (like the starwars one) and you can ofc have your own design.

PM me if interested.

Damn, if I had the money, I'd be all over that. They're dead sexy.

HesterDW · « **Reply #66 on:** Wed, 09 October 2013, 14:55:28 »

Awesome, PM'd.

phetto · « **Reply #67 on:** Wed, 09 October 2013, 14:59:37 »

possible winkeys? what height are these compared to gmks?

Photekq · « **Reply #68 on:** Tue, 29 October 2013, 16:44:58 »

Few more that got made :

Hard to make the first one out since it's a bad photo - it's cthulu.

danielucf · « **Reply #69 on:** Tue, 29 October 2013, 17:07:53 »

Can't wait till I can officially buy some. Are they going to be limited numbers or what ever production can support?

Photekq · « **Reply #70 on:** Tue, 29 October 2013, 17:19:29 »

Quote from: danielucf on Tue, 29 October 2013, 17:07:53

Can't wait till I can officially buy some. Are they going to be limited numbers or what ever production can support?

I really can't say at the moment. I am just working on making the design perfect at the minute.

sprit · « **Reply #71 on:** Wed, 30 October 2013, 03:42:31 »

Great! Really fascinated.

HPE1000 · « **Reply #72 on:** Wed, 30 October 2013, 11:24:19 »

A planet express logo would be sweet

HoffmanMyster · « **Reply #73 on:** Wed, 30 October 2013, 18:04:10 »

Quote from: HPE1000 on Wed, 30 October 2013, 11:24:19

A planet express logo would be sweet

Where were you with these ideas when I was picking a design for my cap?? That would have been a great idea.

HPE1000 · « **Reply #74 on:** Wed, 30 October 2013, 18:49:26 »

Quote from: HoffmanMyster on Wed, 30 October 2013, 18:04:10

Quote from: HPE1000 on Wed, 30 October 2013, 11:24:19
A planet express logo would be sweet

Where were you with these ideas when I was picking a design for my cap?? That would have been a great idea.

I was stupid enough not to be a member yet

)

codyeatworld · « **Reply #75 on:** Wed, 30 October 2013, 18:49:56 »

code key please!

edit: 666th post

sprit · « **Reply #76 on:** Wed, 30 October 2013, 22:57:22 »

이뻐 이뻐요 !

이뻐 이뻐요 !

Photekq · « **Reply #77 on:** Fri, 08 November 2013, 14:15:46 »

Found this in the total mess of folders and photos that is my desktop. Pretty cool I think. Shows hoffman's star wars cap mid-machining. I know cpt will love this one..

MOZ · « **Reply #78 on:** Fri, 08 November 2013, 14:25:36 »

Quote from: Photekq on Fri, 08 November 2013, 14:15:46

Found this in the total mess of folders and photos that is my desktop. Pretty cool I think. Shows hoffman's star wars cap mid-machining. I know cpt will love this one..

Show Image

How long does it take for one of these to be machined on average, I know it depends on the design, but a rough estimate.

Photekq · « **Reply #79 on:** Fri, 08 November 2013, 14:29:01 »

Quote from: MOZ on Fri, 08 November 2013, 14:25:36

Quote from: Photekq on Fri, 08 November 2013, 14:15:46
Found this in the total mess of folders and photos that is my desktop. Pretty cool I think. Shows hoffman's star wars cap mid-machining. I know cpt will love this one..

Show Image

How long does it take for one of these to be machined on average, I know it depends on the design, but a rough estimate.

I really have no clue, sorry. My machinist is currently away so I cannot ask him.

CPTBadAss · « **Reply #80 on:** Fri, 08 November 2013, 14:43:09 »

Quote from: Photekq on Fri, 08 November 2013, 14:15:46

Found this in the total mess of folders and photos that is my desktop. Pretty cool I think. Shows hoffman's star wars cap mid-machining. I know cpt will love this one..

Show Image

YES, MORE MACHINING PORN PLEASE <3

Quote from: MOZ on Fri, 08 November 2013, 14:25:36

How long does it take for one of these to be machined on average, I know it depends on the design, but a rough estimate.

If that is a manual mill, I would say it would take me about two or three hours for just the top side design, depending on how complex the design is. Total time for me and my skill level is probably 5-8 hours, depending on how much material is being removed. I'm also not pro at the mill so my judgment could be way off.

Photekq · « **Reply #81 on:** Fri, 08 November 2013, 14:48:42 »

It isn't a manual mill. It's CNC.

I'll see if I can send you some more machining porn cpt, although I don't have any more keycap related machining porn, so I'll keep it out of this thread

CPTBadAss · « **Reply #82 on:** Fri, 08 November 2013, 14:50:38 »

Oh if it's CNC I bet it's about 2-3 hours total for something like that. My best guess XD

And machining porn is always accepted

HoffmanMyster · « **Reply #83 on:** Fri, 08 November 2013, 16:24:31 »

Quote from: Photekq on Fri, 08 November 2013, 14:15:46

Found this in the total mess of folders and photos that is my desktop. Pretty cool I think. Shows hoffman's star wars cap mid-machining. I know cpt will love this one..

Show Image

IT'S GORGEOUS! Machining porn is so great. Lovely to see a mid-machining shot of that cap. :D

HPE1000 · « **Reply #84 on:** Fri, 08 November 2013, 16:45:33 »

I am going to need one of these eventually.

Photekq · « **Reply #85 on:** Fri, 08 November 2013, 18:25:02 »

Quote from: MOZ on Fri, 08 November 2013, 14:25:36

How long does it take for one of these to be machined on average, I know it depends on the design, but a rough estimate.

It takes around 2 hours total. That includes cutting it down to size on a lathe, polishing it, and also all the tool changing on the router.

MOZ · « **Reply #86 on:** Fri, 08 November 2013, 18:26:06 »

Thanks!

noisyturtle · « **Reply #87 on:** Thu, 14 November 2013, 00:38:12 »

Got mine today, and I gotta say it looks incredible in person. You did a great job on these and it fits perfectly snug on the stem, not too tight and not at all wobbly. Gonna post some pics and short review tomorrow

HoffmanMyster · « **Reply #88 on:** Thu, 14 November 2013, 01:21:11 »

My new brass cap came in! Teaser pics below. Will post more when I get the chance to do a proper photo shoot.

DSC02388 by HoffmanMyster, on Flickr

DSC02389 by HoffmanMyster, on Flickr

Photekq · « **Reply #89 on:** Thu, 14 November 2013, 02:33:02 »

Quote from: noisyturtle on Thu, 14 November 2013, 00:38:12

Got mine today, and I gotta say it looks incredible in person. You did a great job on these and it fits perfectly snug on the stem, not too tight and not at all wobbly. Gonna post some pics and short review tomorrow

Great to hear! Looking forward to pics from you and Hoff!

HesterDW · « **Reply #90 on:** Thu, 14 November 2013, 21:49:47 »

Looking forward to Hoff's professional pics, mine won't do it justice. It does indeed look incredible in person.

noisyturtle · « **Reply #91 on:** Thu, 14 November 2013, 23:22:39 »

They look fantastic in person. I had some trouble photographing it because of the level of detail

r3n_uneducated · « **Reply #92 on:** Thu, 14 November 2013, 23:24:44 »

nice one.

a "Full metal alchemist" icon could be nice on this

Photekq · « **Reply #93 on:** Fri, 15 November 2013, 12:39:31 »

Thanks for posting pics noisy and hester. Happy to see they arrived safely. Only nubbs' is still in the mail!

And yeah noisy, that engraving is hella hard to photograph. You did a good job on that photo for sure.

Quote from: r3n_uneducated on Thu, 14 November 2013, 23:24:44

nice one.

a "Full metal alchemist" icon could be nice on this

Ooh yeah, I like that one!

nubbinator · « **Reply #94 on:** Fri, 15 November 2013, 12:46:34 »

Quote from: Photekq on Fri, 15 November 2013, 12:39:31

Thanks for posting pics noisy and hester. Happy to see they arrived safely. Only nubbs' is still in the mail!

I know. I'm wondering why it's taking so long. It's said that it's being sorted in L.A. for a while now.

Photekq · « **Reply #95 on:** Fri, 15 November 2013, 12:47:36 »

Quote from: nubbinator on Fri, 15 November 2013, 12:46:34

I know. I'm wondering why it's taking so long. It's said that it's being sorted in L.A. for a while now.

Any idea what day I sent it? I don't have records of PMs I've sent..

nubbinator · « **Reply #96 on:** Fri, 15 November 2013, 12:54:43 »

Quote from: Photekq on Fri, 15 November 2013, 12:47:36

Quote from: nubbinator on Fri, 15 November 2013, 12:46:34
I know. I'm wondering why it's taking so long. It's said that it's being sorted in L.A. for a while now.
Any idea what day I sent it? I don't have records of PMs I've sent..

The tracking info says you sent it on the 5th. USPS received it in L.A. on the 8th. I just looked it up on the USPS page again and it looks like it finally arrived at my local post office. Hopefully I'll get it in the next day or two. Looking at the tracking info on the USPS page, it looks like it was at the L.A. customs center/sort facility for a week before going on the L.A. sort facility. Sometimes customs is insane. At least it's not the three weeks in customs some people regularly get.

Photekq · « **Reply #97 on:** Fri, 15 November 2013, 12:56:37 »

Customs.. :/

Oh well, at least it's at your local PO now.

HPE1000 · « **Reply #98 on:** Fri, 15 November 2013, 14:01:48 »

soon...

taylordcraig · « **Reply #99 on:** Sat, 16 November 2013, 19:15:16 »

Oh god. I might have to buy these once they're on sale.

catnipz0098 · « **Reply #100 on:** Sat, 16 November 2013, 19:23:00 »

Has the Group buy started? How come people already have caps?

kenmai9 · « **Reply #101 on:** Sat, 16 November 2013, 19:25:44 »

Quote from: catnipz0098 on Sat, 16 November 2013, 19:23:00

Has the Group buy started? How come people already have caps?

He had a limited beta test run

Show us your topre stem Photekq!

Photekq · « **Reply #102 on:** Sat, 16 November 2013, 19:30:02 »

Quote from: catnipz0098 on Sat, 16 November 2013, 19:23:00

Has the Group buy started? How come people already have caps?

It's totally in beta phase at the moment. The caps you have seen are for people who are testing out the design. Not sure if these will ever be readily available or in a GB. We'll see where it goes..

Quote from: kenmai9 on Sat, 16 November 2013, 19:25:44

Quote from: catnipz0098 on Sat, 16 November 2013, 19:23:00
Has the Group buy started? How come people already have caps?

He had a limited beta test run

Show us your topre stem Photekq!

Need some topre keycaps to measure first

danielucf · « **Reply #103 on:** Sun, 17 November 2013, 03:19:06 »

I can send you a topre escape, but I might need it back otherwise I won't have an escape key any more. I think it would be worth it for everyone though.

nubbinator · « **Reply #104 on:** Sun, 17 November 2013, 17:41:07 »

It's pretty awesome. The one thing I noticed though is mine doesn't sit quite square on the stems, it has a minor tilt to it.

catnipz0098 · « **Reply #105 on:** Sun, 17 November 2013, 17:43:04 »

Quote from: nubbinator on Sun, 17 November 2013, 17:41:07

Show Image

Show Image

It's pretty awesome. The one thing I noticed though is mine doesn't sit quite square on the stems, it has a minor tilt to it.

Beautiful!

Photekq · « **Reply #106 on:** Sun, 17 November 2013, 17:50:19 »

Quote from: nubbinator on Sun, 17 November 2013, 17:41:07

Show Image

Show Image

It's pretty awesome. The one thing I noticed though is mine doesn't sit quite square on the stems, it has a minor tilt to it.

Firstly, great photos. Secondly, what exactly do you mean by it not sitting square? Do you mean the stem isn't perfectly in the centre, or do you mean the cap is at an angle when it's seated? Either way, that really sucks, and I'm so, so sorry, I should have noticed that when I tested it

is there any chance you could provide a photo of it once it's on a keyboard? Does it effect functionality at all, or is it only a small problem?

nubbinator · « **Reply #107 on:** Sun, 17 November 2013, 18:06:26 »

You know what, now I'm not sure if it's a little crooked. On my RK-9000 and QFR Esc key, it is rotated by about 1-3 degrees so it's not square in the cutout for the cap; however, on the function row on the same keyboards, it looks square.

And the cap is still awesome, regardless if my keyboards are the issue or if the cap stem is rotated just a hair. No need to apologize. It's just me noticing one tiny thing and not being able to unnotice it. It's so minor that in normal use, I won't even see it. I may just have to desolder my Esc keys and swap them out and see if they're the culprit.

Edit:

And here's a crappy cell phone shot so you can see what I mean.

Like I said, I'm not sure if it's my switch or the cap now. In either case, no big deal. It causes no issues and I won't notice it in daily use.

Photekq · « **Reply #108 on:** Sun, 17 November 2013, 18:22:06 »

Ah I can see what you mean. I must say that on the original brass caps I found that they sometimes looked rotated, but I could easily correct it by simply moving it around a little. I think the mx stems tend to rotate, but it's obviously far more noticable on a perfectly square keycap.

nubbinator · « **Reply #109 on:** Sun, 17 November 2013, 18:28:15 »

I might have to try it in different orientations or swap out the switch then. It's bizarre that I only notice it on the Esc. Like I said, it's minor, just noticed it and went OCD overdrive. When I use it, I won't notice it, especially if it's on a 60%.

Photekq · « **Reply #110 on:** Sun, 17 November 2013, 18:39:57 »

Quote from: nubbinator on Sun, 17 November 2013, 18:28:15

I might have to try it in different orientations or swap out the switch then. It's bizarre that I only notice it on the Esc. Like I said, it's minor, just noticed it and went OCD overdrive. When I use it, I won't notice it, especially if it's on a 60%.

Good to hear. Thanks again for the great photos.

HoffmanMyster · « **Reply #111 on:** Mon, 18 November 2013, 16:05:30 »

I've finally gotten around to shooting a set of photos properly after the quick teaser shots I posted earlier. I've got a full album on flickr with shots from the first round and the second round (scroll down about half way for the shots of V2 brass cap), with notable new photos added below.

Version 2!

DSC02425_ by HoffmanMyster, on Flickr

A couple shots showing a comparison between V1 and V2, including how V1 has tarnished and is a bit taller than V2 (also considerably more heavy).

DSC02430_ by HoffmanMyster, on Flickr

DSC02443_ by HoffmanMyster, on Flickr

You can see the height difference better here.

DSC02444_- by HoffmanMyster, on Flickr

A couple shots showing how V2 uses thinner walls and a shallower top, but since the stem cutting is different they end up sitting at a similar height, with V2 slightly shorter.

DSC02432_ by HoffmanMyster, on Flickr

DSC02441_ by HoffmanMyster, on Flickr

These two shots show how both caps look in place of each other. You can see how V2 is slightly shorter here.

DSC02447_ by HoffmanMyster, on Flickr

DSC02448_ by HoffmanMyster, on Flickr

Brass + Aluminum + Titanium

DSC02450-_ by HoffmanMyster, on Flickr

Quick write-up:
As noted above, V2 is considerably lighter, and a bit shorter. The decreased weight allows it to be usable as a standard cap with light switches (V1 doesn't "de-click" on MX blues, meaning it doesn't fully return up). The stem fitting on V2 is also tighter (but not too tight - definitely just a great fit), meaning it doesn't wobble like V1. The fact that V2 is shorter means it aligns more nicely with the tops of most keycap sets, giving a more uniform look. This doesn't necessarily affect functionality, but it's a nice adjustment.

Overall, I love the new design. Great work on these, photekq.

Photekq · « **Reply #112 on:** Mon, 18 November 2013, 16:18:30 »

AWESOME photos hoff! Thanks so much for the quick review + all the comparison photos!

taylordcraig · « **Reply #113 on:** Mon, 18 November 2013, 23:18:38 »

Oh jeeze. That V2 writeup by Hoff makes me want these more than ever. Any estimated date before you are taking orders?

Photekq · « **Reply #114 on:** Tue, 14 January 2014, 09:35:52 »

katushkin · « **Reply #115 on:** Tue, 14 January 2014, 20:36:42 »

Looks like I'm going to have to buy more boards to cater for all these esc keys...

Would love one when you put an actual GB up.

CPTBadAss · « **Reply #116 on:** Thu, 16 January 2014, 10:11:51 »

Just a comment from my own experience, you can clean the tarnish with baking soda + water. Just mix a little together, then scrub your cap with a toothbrush, and dry.

katushkin · « **Reply #117 on:** Thu, 16 January 2014, 17:59:45 »

SophionBlack · « **Reply #118 on:** Mon, 26 May 2014, 09:25:23 »

Is there a way to have these anodized?

Photekq · « **Reply #119 on:** Mon, 26 May 2014, 09:27:47 »

Quote from: SophionBlack on Mon, 26 May 2014, 09:25:23

Is there a way to have these anodized?

They're brass, so no. If they were made from aluminium then it would be possible.

SophionBlack · « **Reply #120 on:** Mon, 26 May 2014, 10:34:03 »

I'm now confused, pictured is a brass medal and an anodized brass medal. From what I can ascertain, these types of medals are struck from (usually) 80% copper or above. That may have something to do with these medals being able to be anodized. I was able to look into how these medals are made but no mention of the anodizing process even though there are anodized versions out there.

What can you make of it? As the finishing is the type of key caps I would love to have.

Photekq · « **Reply #121 on:** Mon, 26 May 2014, 10:47:43 »

As far as I know brass can not be anodised. Copper can't be anodised, and zinc can only be anodised at very high voltages.

The medal on the left just looks like oxidised brass, and the one on the left looks like newly polished brass.

SophionBlack · « **Reply #122 on:** Mon, 26 May 2014, 11:26:45 »

Hmm... if there was a way to mimic the finish of the "anodized" medal I would be all for it. It would help key resist wear and tear. I'll look more into the finish and see what I can dig up but I'm very certain it would help add to the durability and life expectancy of the key caps, not to mention make it really "pop" with style.

Photekq · « **Reply #123 on:** Mon, 26 May 2014, 11:27:53 »

I wasn't clear.. Which one is supposed to be the 'anodised' medal?

Quardah · « **Reply #124 on:** Mon, 26 May 2014, 11:33:46 »

I'm interested into getting a Brass keycap.

can it's be DSA profile and can i choose the engraving? also, can it be raised letters like in here?

http://geekhack.org/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=58344.0;attach=65182;image

I would totally put a $ sign on a dsa keycap, golden-ish brass to use it on the '4' of my numrow. Would be d0p3$w@g.

SophionBlack · « **Reply #125 on:** Mon, 26 May 2014, 11:40:28 »

Quote from: Photekq on Mon, 26 May 2014, 11:27:53

I wasn't clear.. Which one is supposed to be the 'anodised' medal?

The one on the right

Photekq · « **Reply #126 on:** Mon, 26 May 2014, 11:50:12 »

Quote from: SophionBlack on Mon, 26 May 2014, 11:40:28

The one on the right

Right, that looks like polished brass. I guess you would want to have it coated with a clear coat or something similar to prevent oxidation.

@Quardah I don't know when/if I will be making any more brass keycaps. Thanks for the interest though.

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