The Aussie Pinball Arcade
Aussie Pinball Forums => Member Services => Sales and Services => Swinks - Pingineering => Topic started by: swinks on July 07, 2012, 10:41:38 AM
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Hi All
As Cavey is selling up as he was considering doing this I have waited for a while so I don't step on any toes.
I now have designs for Sterns and 90's Bally Williams - and considering getting some mirror blades sets made. If any one is interested please let me know as then will consider making batches of 8 sets at a time.
Cost will be approx $80 to $85 not including freight for mirrored SS purely because some others out there are making a fortune on these and can be supplied a lot cheaper. And obviously if you get multiple sets the freight will be cheaper and will offer a discount on multiples - so maybe even team up with a neighbour pinballer to reduce the overall cost of a order.
I have teamed up with a Canadian pinsider with sharing designs and ideas and he is using a slightly different material so I am looking into this same material here for mainly black mirror and gold mirror and hoping to do these for under $100 but will confirm once I locate this material in Aus - so any interest just let me know.
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Sweet, put me down for a set of gold blades mate.
^^^
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Great work! Looking forward to seeing them installed!
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I am looking into this same material here for mainly black mirror and gold mirror and hoping to do these for under $100 but will confirm once I locate this material in Aus - so any interest just let me know.
swinks,
Great work and price on this. I also found it was more satisfying (and practical) to make these yourself rather than pay the exorbitant prices some were asking. ^^^
rimexmetals in Sydney should have what you are looking for. *%*
0.8mm is the standard thickness line they carry.
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I am looking into this same material here for mainly black mirror and gold mirror and hoping to do these for under $100 but will confirm once I locate this material in Aus - so any interest just let me know.
swinks,
Great work and price on this. I also found it was more satisfying (and practical) to make these yourself rather than pay the exorbitant prices some were asking. ^^^
rimexmetals in Sydney should have what you are looking for. *%*
0.8mm is the standard thickness line they carry.
thanks mate, will follow that up and then work out final prices and see who wants to follow through with a order.
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Well done swinks put me down for 1 set for a Stern and 1 set for a Williams both in SS.I am also interested to see how the gold looks if you do any.
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not to many screw/ mounting holes please
postage on these cant go through Aus Post unless your
on very good terms with your local postmaster %$%
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Well done swinksy on taking the lead with this one. Its a shame my stuff from the USA just didnt work out, it didnt come up to scratch in the end.
With your CAD drawing expertise/experience and great determination, I reckon your on a winner for sure.
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Would definitely be interested in these, Chrome and the colours as well.
Im not convinced they need any mounting holes to be honest. After helping someone install some with only mounting/double sided tape they held just fine.
Anyway would be interested in Bally and Stern blades.
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Im not convinced they need any mounting holes to be honest. After helping someone install some with only mounting/double sided tape they held just fine.
Agreed. In my experience, no screw mounting holes are needed at all. Just one hole at the back for the backbox hinge bolt to hold it in place at the rear and a couple of small pieces of double sided tape at the front of the sheet to hold it there.
The more important part will be the application of the felt strips on the sides of the playfield to stop scratching of the sheets when the playfield is raised and lowered.
swinks sounds like he has all this covered anyway. ^^^
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I'd be interested in a Bally / Williams set as long as they can be posted economically and safely ^^^
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To answer some questions:
- my goal is cover the cost of manufacture and a little extra for my effort but not out to get rich from others
- the sets will have an optional 3 screw holes located under the play field line so it will be the choice of the user to use or not. The Bally / WMS have the locating hinge hole where the Sterns will not due to the construction method of the cabinets.
- I would advise using 3m double sided tape and most probably include it in the kit
- My goal with freight will be cheap and safe as possible with ample protection and I will only be passing on this cost not profiting from it.
Once I locate the other possible materials for black and gold mirror and get a quote to laser cut I will post a update and see who is serious.
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Just to give you a idea and plant the seed to see if anyone is keen, check out the original source for the black and gold mirror blades - very pricey at $250 a set plus god knows what freight from the US.
http://www.pinballdecals.com/MirrorBladesPage.html
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I would expect the colours to be more....I guess it just comes down to how much more. !@#
I would be more interested in the Chrome and Gold than the Black. But that is just me though.... <..>
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To put things into perspective I got a quote back from Pinball Decal for the Black and Gold Chrome mirror blades
"1 x WMS Black Mirror Blade Set..........$250
1 x WMS Gold Mirror Blade Set...........$250
Shipping to AU Fully Insured via FedEx = $175"
hence this is why I am trying to offer a product at half the price with a very similar effect, so watch for final pricing as I hope to finalise it in the next week for blades only, and will then take orders to get the ball rolling. But I most probably be offering playfield felt and 3M sticky squares for $10 max as a estimate with a set of blades.
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To put things into perspective I got a quote back from Pinball Decal for the Black and Gold Chrome mirror blades
"1 x WMS Black Mirror Blade Set..........$250
1 x WMS Gold Mirror Blade Set...........$250
Shipping to AU Fully Insured via FedEx = $175"
hence this is why I am trying to offer a product at half the price with a very similar effect, so watch for final pricing as I hope to finalise it in the next week for blades only, and will then take orders to get the ball rolling. But I most probably be offering playfield felt and 3M sticky squares for $10 max as a estimate with a set of baldes.
Sounds good. ^^^ Look forward to the prices.
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got some samples today of the black and gold mirror - very nice but pricey, and just waiting on some quotes for blades then I will see who is really wanting a set.
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got some samples today of the black and gold mirror - very nice but pricey, and just waiting on some quotes for blades then I will see who is really wanting a set.
Could be interested in a gold set but willing to pay the extra for a quality product.If it going to be done, do it right the first time is what i have to keep telling myself..I have a habit of doing thing three times before I get it right.
Have got some of their doors on some of my pinballs and they are outstanding quality, compared to crap job that my local guy charge me.
Need to no the quality of the material first.
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I hear you, and I can re-assure you that I am very particular when making things and I would not want to offer sub standard items. This material that I have found in Aus is awesome and it is SS so quality is no problems. Drano and myself have teamed up with cad files and he has stepped out first in going into production and proved the files are accurate. He says his are home made but he has a huge museum workshop with cnc's to do an array of awesome things at his finger tips. My intention is to use a laser company in Sydney to try and lower the cost per unit so the quality of work is there and I use to build and operate laser machines so I have prepared the files accurately for Drano and myself so I can ensure you it will be a quality product.
Basically I am very principled and it bugs me how some people are profiting off others to the point of taking advantage.
Here is Drano's thread on pinside
http://pinside.com/pinball/forum/topic/home-made-mirror-blades
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Got some quotes back and this is what we are looking at roughly, but still waiting on some SS freight charges but wanted to really see who is interested - so basically teasing a little but baiting to see who wants some as I need to get 50% sales for me to take the plunge as I will be out of pocket a considerable amount and this takes the edge off but not cover the costs totally.
Note these prices are still yet to be firmed up but within $5-10 either way but hoping these are close to the money.
Chrome Mirror SS (0.9mm thick) set - $85 (still yet to work out freight)
Black or Gold SS Mirror SS (0.9mm thick) set - $135 (still yet to work out freight)
So if interested let me know via PM, if I don't get enough interest I won't be going ahead with the blades.
I will be offering a discount or a free set on multiple blade sets - amount still to be calculated.
Packaging maybe a few dollars as possibly will be laser cutting 3mm MDF sections for the blade to be sandwiched inbetween to project but this cost will just flow on - no margins added.
Freight cost will be passed on - I will not put a margain on it.
The Chrome mirror will only be offered here on AP as don't want to encroach on other guys doing making blades on AA.
But currently with the Black and Gold Mirror as far as I am aware I will be the only provider at this stage within Aus so will offer elsewhere but want to offer to you guys first.
I know el_Timbo is itching ^^^
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Swinks,
Even though 0.9 sounds thin it can be hard to fit in to some machines. By the time you add double sided tape you will hit 1mm. I couldn't fit 0.7 in to a few machines because the tolerances can vary from machine to machine. With 0.9mm you are really going to have to move toys, plastics and ramps etc.
Try get thinner if possible.
:)
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swinks,
RE: Gold sets.
How many sales do you need to make the gold a "go-er"? If you need 50% sales to cover costs, I presume you need to have 4 orders confirmed out of the 7/8 total pairs you can get out of a standard sheet. (Just going on my own experience here, as I don't know what sheet sizes you have obtained or if you are using a 3rd party for the cutting). ^^^
Maybe clarify how many you need to get this off the ground and get some names in a list in this thread as to who is committing?
Either way put me down for a set of gold for Bally Williams to give this some momentum. ()
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guys - insanity, wonder and el-Timbo expressed interest in the last few days, please let me know what type and brand machine ones.
cheers
I may also offer a little extra item at no cost - a surprise *%*
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Quotes are in:
Chrome Mirror - $90 a set
Black and Gold Mirror - $135 a set
freighting multiple sets in one package should be a little cheaper so maybe team up with a few guys in your area and share the saving.
Multiple set Special deals:
buy 3 sets and get $5 off each set of blades
buy 4 sets and get $7.50 off each set of blades
buy 5 sets and get $10 off each set of blades.
still yet to finalise freight so won't take any money until I get a final price to you - hence the "pencil in your order" as still need 50% of units spoken for to lock in definite fabrication.
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Here is a SaMple of the gold and black mirror with a Spiderman shooter know.
Sorry the focus is on the Spidey back the left is the gold mirror and the right is the black mirror. The samples were only about 4.5 x 2.5cm.
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1 set of gold for a Bally Williams thanks swinks. ^^^
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Put me down for a STERN gold set.
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Swinksy, pls put me down for a std mirror finish to stick in my Stern AC/DC PRO pls.
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Put me down for a STERN gold set.
Would this be for the IM, would look pretty good sweet
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Ok prices are in, please do you calculations and let me know if still keen via PM along with your post code so I can firm up quote for a set/s.
Blades - $90 or $135 (less any discount for multiple sets)
Packaging - $5 - will be 2 pieces of 3mm MDF (1200 x 265mm) which will house the blades and add the required support so your blades do not bend damaged nor bent.
Freight - I am in Newcastle - so any local guys can pick up for nothing ^^^ or if you are coming to Pinfest pickup then ???
- but for those needing it sent here are the costs. I checked out E-go as heard they are cheap but heard lots of negative things. So went through the process of cost comparing among a few companies.
So came up with Smart Send - as they have reasonable freight charge, they insure (at blade cost to you) and they have receipted delivery - so for you the customer are totally covered as well as myself as I want everyone to be happy.
Freight estimates are: (are to major cities, so once I have your accurate postcode I can finalise your final cost to you).
Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne - $25
Adelaide - $33
Perth and Hobart - $40
as for Wonders multiple sets (4 off) to Perth - $45
so maybe share postage and purchase costs with someone else and get a set of blades for cheaper, like Wonder's purchase $40 for 1 set of freight but $11.00 per set for 4 sets = $45.
I understand if anyone is not willing if the costs have grown just PM and anyone keen PM me your postcode and once I get 12 sets with names against them I will place a order and start locking in purchase values with everyone.
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Put me down for a STERN gold set.
Would this be for the IM, would look pretty good sweet
Yeah mate, GOLD for the IM, what do you think would look best on X-MEN?
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Put me down for a STERN gold set.
Would this be for the IM, would look pretty good sweet
Yeah mate, GOLD for the IM, what do you think would look best on X-MEN?
I'm tempted to change the regular chrome mirror to Gold mirror in my IM also.
As for the X-men, I did look for Blue mirror , but with no luck - so I suppose regular chrome mirror.
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Put me down for a STERN gold set.
Would this be for the IM, would look pretty good sweet
Yeah mate, GOLD for the IM, what do you think would look best on X-MEN?
I'm tempted to change the regular chrome mirror to Gold mirror in my IM also.
As for the X-men, I did look for Blue mirror , but with no luck - so I suppose regular chrome mirror.
I reckon the gold will look fantastic on IM.
I was thinking maybe a black for Magneto LE, otherwise the reg chrome should do the trick?
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Put me down for a STERN gold set.
Would this be for the IM, would look pretty good sweet
Yeah mate, GOLD for the IM, what do you think would look best on X-MEN?
I'm tempted to change the regular chrome mirror to Gold mirror in my IM also.
As for the X-men, I did look for Blue mirror , but with no luck - so I suppose regular chrome mirror.
I reckon the gold will look fantastic on IM.
I was thinking maybe a black for Magneto LE, otherwise the reg chrome should do the trick?
Is someone getting a Magneto ??? &&
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Put me down for a STERN gold set.
Would this be for the IM, would look pretty good sweet
Yeah mate, GOLD for the IM, what do you think would look best on X-MEN?
I'm tempted to change the regular chrome mirror to Gold mirror in my IM also.
As for the X-men, I did look for Blue mirror , but with no luck - so I suppose regular chrome mirror.
I reckon the gold will look fantastic on IM.
I was thinking maybe a black for Magneto LE, otherwise the reg chrome should do the trick?
Is someone getting a Magneto ??? &&
#@#
"It's a dark future that rushes towards us and we must be prepared"
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As for the X-men, I did look for Blue mirror , but with no luck - so I suppose regular chrome mirror.
swinks,
Check with the supplier we discussed, I'm sure they do blue mirror (and red, green, purple, and champagne colours). I'll send you the details if you need it?
Lock me in for Gold still. ^^^
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Thanks Pinsanity, I have based my prices on these guys and want to start the first batch small, but if the first batch sell well then will look at some other colours
BLUE - X-men, WH20, Fishtales
GREEN - creature
RED - x-men magento, spiderman
though only tonight have located another company that can possibly supply the same - will see if the price is any better and if I could get some half sheets.
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Just to add I plan to put together a little instruction sheet and some tabs of double sided tape.
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Holy crap......dont get on for a day or so and you miss so much.
Please put me down for 1 set of Gold Bally/Williams and 1 set of Stern Chrome.
Highly likely i will want 2 more sets just yet to decide what i want...... !@#
Edit - add 1 set of Black Bally/Williams as well please. 1 more set to decide on.....
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Holy crap......dont get on for a day or so and you miss so much.
Please put me down for 1 set of Gold Bally/Williams and 1 set of Stern Chrome.
Highly likely i will want 2 more sets just yet to decide what i want...... !@#
Edit - add 1 set of Black Bally/Williams as well please. 1 more set to decide on.....
I have put your name down, and need a pm with your post code so I can give you a final price.
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I will let you know by the end of the day about a potential new color to the list - blue.
If enough interest by the end of the weekend I may add 1 more sheet of gold mirror.
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Put me down for:
1x Bally/Williams Chrome
1x Bally/Williams Gold
1x Stern Gold
Any plans on doing data east?
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Put me down for:
1x Bally/Williams Chrome
1x Bally/Williams Gold
1x Stern Gold
Any plans on doing data east?
If I had a profile for Data East I could make them but unfortunately don't at this stage.
I will add you to the list, cheers for the support.
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PM sent. ^^^
And put me down for 1 Blue Stern set please. you may have made my mind up for me on that one. *%* *)*
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PM sent. ^^^
And put me down for 1 Blue Stern set please. you may have made my mind up for me on that one. *%* *)*
please note: this is not a guarantee as still waiting on some info, will keep you posted.
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Hi All
I can get blue but has to be made so batch 1 will be 1 sheet of silver, 1 x gold and 1 x black. I am seeing if I can get a larger sheet of gold to squeeze Humpalot's order into one run.
I will notify everyone over the weekend with totals and account details.
I also will relocate some of this info I think into the parts for sale and do a little cleaning up (my fault with releasing bits of info at a time &^&)
I will start a second batch order list once the first batch is made and at this stage contemplating 1 x red, 1 x blue and 1 x gold) and that will probably be it for the year as got alot on.
Cursed is on the list for a blue Stern set
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locked in el_timbo ^^^
we are a goer for production, got enough numbers, will run a sheet of the standard chrome next week to ensure sizes are accurate then the second run (end of the month to early August) will be the guys on the list a few posts down. There are still some available options and will confirm blue mirrors maybe getting done in this batch early next week - could look awesome in FishTales, WH20, Avatar and X-Men.
I am also going to do a Early SS Bally (Skateball era) SS blades trial ....
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PM sent. Order placed ^^^
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Swinks,
The Stern profile fits DE. I checked some Stern ones on my GnR. I would double check before you commit as your profile may be different to mine but it should be good.
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Jady,
I will take a red set as well if you have them.
^^^
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postage is a killer on the U.S ones but the price is right for 5 or more
they were .8mm if I remember correct and they were a tight fit
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I got this email from the guys in the us for 5 items:
"It would.....we can fit 5 sets per box.
If you got 5+ sets, I could do colored stainless steel sets for $200 each and regular ones for $100 each. Shipping would be much better spread over the 5 sets instead of just 2."
They quoted me 2 sets at $250 each with $175 freight thats $675 total.
that's why I thought I would do it myself as that is around $1200 for 5 sets of black or gold mirror freight where I can supply 5 sets with freight max $675. I have found another supplier who can do the coloured at -.8mm thick as well and there will be a small custom item with each set all going well for those ordering from the 1st & 2nd main run. Just have to see if my bending skills are good enough.
I currently have 0.9mm on my IM and yes a neat fit, but not marking the blades and I don't have felt on as yet.
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Just a small tip with the felt strips.
Rather than a narrow felt strip, I prefer to apply a wider adhesive backed felt strip and apply it to the side of the playfield so that part of the strip can be folded over to the underside of the playfield and secured there as well.
The reason for this is that it stops any chance of the edges of the felt strip getting snagged on the sides of the cabinet/mirror blades when it is raised or lowered and eventually rubbing loose.
I bought these wider felt strips for this exact purpose since you can cut/adjust to a width of your choosing.
http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/2-Wide-Black-Self-Adhesive-Video-Projector-Screen-100-Wool-Felt-Tape-50-ft-/370629974976?pt=US_Projection_Screens_Material&hash=item564b449bc0
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postage is a killer on the U.S ones but the price is right for 5 or more
they were .8mm if I remember correct and they were a tight fit
Tight fit on all machines or just stern or just b/w etc?
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^^ Great idea with the felt^^
Looking forward to seeing the colours in person. ^^^ Thanks for organising this Swinks. @@*
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^^ Great idea with the felt^^
Thanks. ^^^
This is what I mean for folding over the felt to the underside. I didn't trim these felt strips any narrower at all just folded them over to the underside of the playfield.
I currently have "chrome" mirror blades on the CV and with the attachment tape and the felt strips it is a moderately snug fit. The important part is that the felt strips will now not snag or catch on the sides of the cabinet/mirror blades, plus do their job in acting as a cushioning buffer and are flexible enough that the playfield still slides in with ease and without scratching the blades at all. So you can just raise and lower the playfield in the usual way without worry.
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postage is a killer on the U.S ones but the price is right for 5 or more
they were .8mm if I remember correct and they were a tight fit
Tight fit on all machines or just stern or just b/w etc?
I have a set of someone else's on my IM and they are 0.9mm and there is still clearance and I have not applied felt yet (but will do). Also I have a creature which has plenty of gap between the play field and cabinet walls but 1 of the ramps above the play field is awfully close (though ramp is fasten different because about lug has been pro ken off so fastening slightly off) so with the blade keep the accessories in mind as well but check if things are aligned properly as well.
To put it into perspective, pinball machines are made out of timber and therefore can expand and contract due to moisture in it's varied environments over the years. In addition these cabinets are made to spec but different producers for Stern and Bally / Williams will have slight variances over the years due to cutters being sharp, operator etc. (sorry to be particular but having my own cnc router and since I use to make cnc's I know how variances can creep in). Like stern at the moment making the X-Men as it has been a heat wave and then in Winter climates go the total other direction below zero which can affect the cabinets. So without copping out but also to empower you, you have the choice so when you are considering buying blades you need to determine if you can afford 0.8 to 0.9mm of blade on each side as well as some gap so you can safely raise the playfield. With the Bally blades the hinge hole is slightly large but this is to accommodate variances in manufacture. I know I am being very informative but I would rather that than the other as I want everyone to be happy with their purchase.
That aside thanks for the support everyone, it's a nice feel good to be able to provide something that many people want. I think they look great but some of the prices out there are just ridiculous. Warning though, like pinbals once you get one set you will want more. &&
I will be ordering 1 sheet tomorrow as am changing my approach slightly but this is to benefit everyone and myself.
There will be Run 1 - 1 sheet of the affordable silver mirror purely as a test run - so if going well these will be sold off to those only just wanting the silver so some may jump the cue a little. As some of you want some gold, black and maybe another flavour will be done in Run 2 in about a weeks time but will be ordering that material in the next day or two as some of it has to be specially made - flavour orders ^^^ I just didn't want you guys to be charged for double postage.
So please bare with me as I want you guys to get a product that fits and that everyone is happy with.
Also as a little bonus keep an eye out as I will be offering one set only as Free Issue Comp from this first run just to spread the joy - winner gets to choose a Stern or Bally/WMS set. $#$
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^^ Great idea with the felt^^
Looking forward to seeing the colours in person. ^^^ Thanks for organising this Swinks. @@*
Thanks. ^^^
This is what I mean for the felt. I didn't trim these felt strips any narrower at all just folded them over to the underside of the playfield.
I currently have "chrome" mirror blades on the CV and with the attachment tape and the felt strips it is a moderately snug fit. The important part is that the felt strips act as a cushioning buffer and are flexible enough that the playfield still slides in with ease and without scratching the blades at all. So you can just raise and lower the playfield in the usual way without worry.
(http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll153/pinball1974/Mirror%20Blades%20various%20machines/100_1178.jpg)
Great tip and thanks for sharing ^^^
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^^ Great idea with the felt^^
Looking forward to seeing the colours in person. ^^^ Thanks for organising this Swinks. @@*
Thanks. ^^^
This is what I mean for folding over the felt to the underside. I didn't trim these felt strips any narrower at all just folded them over to the underside of the playfield.
I currently have "chrome" mirror blades on the CV and with the attachment tape and the felt strips it is a moderately snug fit. The important part is that the felt strips will now not snag or catch on the sides of the cabinet/mirror blades, plus do their job in acting as a cushioning buffer and are flexible enough that the playfield still slides in with ease and without scratching the blades at all. So you can just raise and lower the playfield in the usual way without worry.
(http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll153/pinball1974/Mirror%20Blades%20various%20machines/100_1178.jpg)
does the playfield need to come out to apply the felt?
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does the playfield need to come out to apply the felt?
No, you can if you want to felt the entire length of the playfield but I have found this is not necessary since if you use the thicker type felt I suggested earlier on both sides of the playfield this basically eliminates any side to side movement of the playfield itself, thus stopping any unprotected areas of the playfield from making contact with the mirror blades. Whilst I applied felt the whole length of the CV playfield since it was out of the cabinet anyway (resto job), I applied felt to approximately 3/4 of the length of the sides of my TZ doing the following with the playfield still in the cabinet:
In cabinet method:
What I did was to pull and raise the playfield to its vertical locking position resting against the backbox and then applying the felt as far back as you can reach BEYOND the edge of where the cab meets the playfield of at least a couple of cms beyond (it will be a tight fit to work it in there whilst the playfield is in situ I suggest physically pushing the playfield the few mms across to the other side of the cabinet whilst doing this for each side to give yourself a bit more room to work with).
Measure and cut the felt for both sides of the playfield the same length and apply them in the same starting positions on both sides to ensure the felt "buffer zone" is even.
Whilst it may seem like a chore, applying the felt beyond the edge of where the cabinet and playfield meet will ensure the felt will not snag or catch on the cab whilst the playfield is being slid back in from the forward locking position or lowered from the vertical locking position. it will still leave about a quarter of the back section of the playfield sides unprotected but as explained above the thicker type felt acts as a a cushion and stops any side to side movement of the playfield, and stopping any possibility of the unprotected areas rubbing against the blades.
It sounds over complex, but it should only take 10 minutes tops and will ensure that you never have to worry about scratching the panels when lifting or sliding the playfield in and out of the cab. ^^^
PS: The felt goes on first and the blades are the last thing you install.
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excellent information, thank you
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no problems punter, will remove from list, I pick up some classy gal numbers tomorrow to do a initial profile check. ^^^
Had a few dramas with coloured stuff 2 days on some items and 10 days on blue and gold, so for anyone wanting a few I am guessing that to save some dollars shipped all the order together. The supply that I wanted to go with is 5 weeks so will have to get him on the next run (if there is one) all depends on what people think etc.
Jady
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thanks for the support guys, just keeping this post close to the front.
Updated 25-7-12
Had a few material stock issues with the supplier I wanted to go with so officially doing 1 run as per below and depending on sales and feedback and any new interest, I will look at more of silver, black, gold and even look at a blue and red mirror - sorry guys - just got to watch the wallet but also looking after the initial guys standing behind me on this one.
1st Run as follows:
1 x silver mirror - 0,8mm
1 x black mirror - 0.8mm
1 x gold mirror - 0.8mm
A few guys pulled out - totally understand so had to reduce the amount made so I am not at a financial loss but others are still looked after.
In the colours no one here in Aus does thinner so 0.8mm is the best I can do. So when you are considering, you the customer needs to determine the space - e.g. reading on Pinside machines like The Shadow are so very tight though a few guys persisted but very tight. So you the owner has to make the decision if the blades will fit because as you know machines vary and some may have slight warps etc so I can not accept responsibility for variations of fit. As for fitting to the same profile there are variances in every machine / model so again I can not design a product for every machine rather go for something to fits a large percentage. Almost every Bally / WMS will be the same except near the back board (back of the blade) e.g. a Getaway is slightly different as some guys have had to do some slight modifications to either the timber in the back of the cabinet and others using tin snipes to the blade. I would rather you be well informed rather than upset.
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Put me down for:
1x Bally/Williams Chrome
1x Bally/Williams Gold
1x Stern Gold
Any plans on doing data east?
If I could get a accurate profile of a data east I would do it as I have had a few enquiries.
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Ok progress report
Had some samples cut today and did a test fit - don't be shocked by the industrial look - 0.9mm gal is cheap *%*
The stern one fitted beautiful
The Bally / WMS fitted well but I am going to make 2 slight improvements based on how it fitted but also because what I have read recently on certain machines.
2 photos
- industrial blades - test samples
- creature with a industrial blade - personally going to put some black mirror into the creature - not over the top bling but adding some class and yes the creature is a bit sad, have nearly got all the parts for a restore - god knows when.
Also have a lot of info pulled together and will supply a instruction sheet for the experienced and novice of how to install the blades.
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Here is a good example of Black Mirror - which I got from Drano (my pin side team mate in this venture)
It is a Tron with black mirror with the second photo showing the rhs with a blade and the lhs with no blade, classy touch without going over the top. Creature here I come ^^^
edit 25-7-12
added a extra photo of a Tron with standard mirror on the lhs and gold on the rhs - black looks good
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Great work swinks.
^^^
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small Update - did a proto type packaging concept night and should do the trick, buying boxes only bumps up the cost more.
I have PM'd Pinsanity, Strangeways, el_Timbo, Cow Corner, Cavey, Indazone, Cursed, Humpalot with price break down including freight estimates - have sent a email to the company to confirm these prices tomorrow. Mate Humpalot is being burnt at the stake for his freight - checked it many times (open to freight suggestions for you if you know a better one).
If I don't get enough people to commit unfortunately for you guys you won't get blades as I can't afford to go into debt with this.
Will give it to tomorrow night to see numbers - I really need 20 sets just to cover material and laser cost - not including my effort.
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Will give it to tomorrow night to see numbers - I really need 20 sets just to cover material and laser cost - not including my effort.
20 orders in total or per type?
If total, add a chrome BW set to my order. ^^^
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Will give it to tomorrow night to see numbers - I really need 20 sets just to cover material and laser cost - not including my effort.
20 orders in total or per type?
If total, add a chrome BW set to my order. ^^^
In total
I am happy to have a little stock sitting around for a short period, thanks mate
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Also should add that Pinfest is going to be held just down the road so if anyone wants to save on freight, happy to store them here but will need payment by the end of the week for all this to happen. This may be of help for you humpalot or mate cruising through.... Leave with you guys.
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Thanks for all your effotts Jady but I have to pull out of this.
I hope everyone enjoys the new blades.
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No worries mate ^^^
1st run now reduced to 3 sheets, with most guys confirming they are happy to pay. So will send out bank detail tonight and will be ordering tomorrow. In addition if postage works out to be less I will pass on the difference.
For those waiting until they are made and reports posted with hopefully some photos please - if there are some left please let me know and I give you a quote for freight. Or you can put your name on the reserve list against a flavoured that hasn't been paid for - order will be in order of request and offer made to the next person.
Only after feedback and thoughts of these are posted will I consider a second run.
Cheers to those supporting the first Aussie made FLAVOURED MIRRORS.
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26-7-12 Update
- ordered material and locked in a laser cutter
- material arrives from overseas early next week, with items being made week of 6th August
those that have ordered please email me once you have made your payment
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2-8-12 Update
- laser cutter waiting for material
- material leaving the docks for the warehouse at the Central Coast
- packaging purchased ready to go
most people have paid, I know el_timbo will be right by tomorrow ^^^.
A notice to others not paid up but the time the blades are done and ready to ship these will be on the open market as a couple of the guys have expressed interest for a few more sets so best way to save on freight. So if interested please let me know your status asap.
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3-8-12 Update
All the material is in and will be delivered to the laser cutter next Monday.
A mate is making a small bender for me so I bend up the bonus item with these blades
Hope to have all parts made and picked up by late next week - will post a few photos once in my hot little hands.
All going well next weekend will be packaging up ready for everyone.
Cheers
Jady
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Great job Jady,
I'm sorry I had to pull out of this run but if you do another please let me know.
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Jady, if there's a Chrome Mirror slot available, I'm in. Can ship with El Timbo's when ready.
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thanks for the support guys, just keeping this post close to the front.
Updated 4-8-12
1st Run as follows:
1 x silver mirror - 0,8mm
1 x black mirror - 0.8mm
1 x gold mirror - 0.8mm
In the colours no one here in Aus does thinner so 0.8mm is the best I can do. So when you are considering, you the customer needs to determine the space - e.g. reading on Pinside machines like The Shadow are so very tight though a few guys persisted but very tight. So you the owner has to make the decision if the blades will fit because as you know machines vary and some may have slight warps etc so I can not accept responsibility for variations of fit. As for fitting to the same profile there are variances in every machine / model so again I can not design a product for every machine rather go for something to fits a large percentage. Almost every Bally / WMS will be the same except near the back board (back of the blade) e.g. a Getaway is slightly different as some guys have had to do some slight modifications to either the timber in the back of the cabinet and others using tin snipes to the blade. I would rather you be well informed rather than upset.
Prices are in for the 1st Run:
Chrome Mirror - $90 a set
Black and Gold Mirror - $135 a set
freighting multiple sets in one package will be a little cheaper per unit in effect so maybe team up with a few guys in your area and share the saving.
Multiple set Special deals per person:
buy 3 sets and get $5 off each set of blades
buy 4 sets and get $7.50 off each set of blades
buy 5 sets and get $10 off each set of blades.
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Update 10-8-12
blades are in the house (actually still in the car) ^^^ , it is pouring down rain so will leave in the car and be packing over the weekend to freight out early next week.
attached is a photo of the blades in the car - don't worry carefully placed a few on top of each other for the photo. All blades have there protective coating on the good side. So the photo is really the back side of the blades so some are a little scratched (more so on the colour ones as they go through an additional process to achieve the colour effect) but still reflective. Lhs side is a 1x black mirror, 3 x silver mirror in the centre and 2 x gold mirror on the right hand side. The lighting is poor but the gold and blacks look good with the golds almost having a slight reddish look (on the backside).
My Goal is to get them packed and shipped off hopefully by Tuesday afternoon if not Wednesday lunchtime next week.
Many thanks for everyone's patience and support as I know some people may think this is a risk but I will not let anyone down.
There is a possible little bonus to those who have supported me in this first run with a few extras to be shared - yes a small surprise so stay tuned over the weekend. In addition all going well with the spares will be a Free Saturday or Sunday comp so get those smileys ready *%*.
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well done. shld improve everyones machine for sure ! ^^^
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Thanks for the updates swinks. ^^^
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Awsome Jady
Should brighten AcDc up nicely
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Swinksy,Any Williams Wpc left?
Might bling up the T2
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Swinksy,Any Williams Wpc left?
Might bling up the T2
Pm sent
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11 sets in total sent to ddstoys, pinnies4me, pinsanity, cavey and el-timbo so hopefully some photos and (hopefully some good ^^^) thoughts soon.
Also out of interest the gold and black coloured mirrored SS has addition treatments performed to get it's unique coloured look. The black mirror actually comes from the UK and the gold is treated here in Aus.
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My blades arrived this morning nice n early, wasnt expecting til the end of the week so was very surprised. That was lightning quick postage/courier.
Well packed and a EXCELLENT product.
If anyone is thinking of buying mirror blades to make your game look SPECTACULAR, give Swinksy the order/go ahead cause you will not be dissapointed.
EVERYTHING IS PERFECT, for the Stern and the Williams sets. ^^^ ^^^ ^^^
Will definately be buying more sets to help dress up some of the machines for sales etc. They look amazing. What a huge difference. ^^^
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Peter (TUF-427) sent me some photos of his install of some Bally / WMS silver mirror blades in his Williams T2 - looks great
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and 2 more
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Update 4-9-12
I have heard back that almost all 10 guys that in total purchased 28 sets of blades who have received them in good order - my industrial packing worked, garden stake and all %.%, thank god as was so worried about these blades bending being only 0.8mm thick each.
TUF-427 and el_timbo have each installed some blades, TUF's set are documented below and el_timbo will be releasing a newly restored pinball in the next few days with a black mirror installed which he is stoked on how they have come up. For me if he is happy I think most will be wrapped as he is precision workmanship x 10 for a game restore. The other guys are waiting for restores and will install when the stage of blade install occurs but you will start to see some more photos posted soon.
You may be wondering how do you get 28 sets from 24 sets - well the laser cutter that I used stuffed up the first time by cutting all RHS from the first 3 sheets which in turn forced me to buy another 3 sheets to get all LHS made. In addition when they cut the LHS they used the wrong file for the Bally / WMS ones - this was a stress and a half. The reason I am telling you is that, is all the Bally / WMS were heavily discounted even though the difference was ever so mild and was under the playfield so not seen and because all the guys purchasing were told and given the option to pull out or get a discount.
Therefore the Bally / WMS blades are classified as proto-types and discounted accordingly so this venture was / is a definitely non profit venture - shit happens, but on the flip side some guys have got gold and black mirror blades that may never have due to the expense.
Ok so know you may ask what are these differences with the Bally / WMS:
The LHS and RHS differ ever so slightly:
- hinge hole is slightly different 0.5mm back and down from one side to the other but the oversize in hole diameter covers this when fitting.
- the 3 screw holes along the bottom are different from version 1 to version 2 by 1-2 mm as made the version 2 the same spacing as the Sterns to keep something consistent in measurement detail = me being anal.
- the very back edge has a 0mm at the top to 5mm at the bottom taper on version 2 as noticed on my creature a very neat almost restrictive fit.
Therefore the RHS version 1 and LHS version 2 will still fit and look great in your machine and you will not notice the difference above the playfield where they are seen but they are just not perfect when you overlap them.
below is the image of the version 1 as per version 2. Version 2 has the taper and is the shape in blue.
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Remaining blades from the 1st Run are as follows.
Proto-type Bally / WMS
1 x Silver Mirror set @ $75 a set (were $90)
2 x Black Mirror sets @ $110 a set (were $135)
1 x Gold Mirror set @ $110 a set (were $135)
The price of these includes a matching shooter lane protector (value of $5) at no charge
Note: if I do another run the price of black & gold mirror will go back up to $135 and the silver mirror to $90
Stern
4 x Silver Mirror sets @ $90 a set
6 x Black Mirror sets @ $135 a set
6 x Gold Mirror sets @ $135 a set
I will not be making more until I sell at least 10 of these 20 remaining sets of blades due to the discounts and teething problems on the first run.
Discounts: because I have discounted the Bally / WMS I will not discount those much more but if you want a blend of sterns and bally's I will try and give a discount so PM your wish list.
Lastly Pinfest is on in 5 days $#$ so if anyone wanting to avoid freight, let me know, pay prior and I can give to you personally and even supply a freighting / transport package for $6 extra to cover your goods when you chuck them in your car. I will also be doing a first listing tonight on AA as I haven't listed them as yet but since Pinfest is coming up a good chance to sell a few.
Future Runs: so far the trend is for Bally / WMS so the next run maybe predominantly these and maybe a Blue Mirror but this will be pre-order on a new thread.
cheers guys
and a HUGE thanks to those 10 guys for supporting me, being patient and very understanding when I was almost ready to chuck it in.
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Got around to doing the Getaway Swinksy,
Looks good and easy to fit,no issues and 15min your done... *%*
Im using screws to fix BTW...
Debating on weather to do F14,its already blinding to play... %$%
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Looks great ^^^
Thanks for the feedback
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Update 20-9-12
I have been investigating freight and have now setup a courier account with Fastway with the freight costs very competitive for you, so just send me a PM and then I can you give you an accurate quote:
eg, city areas
1 set to Brisbane, Gold Coast, Northern Rivers, Coffs Harbour, Brisbane, Albury, Bendigo, Melbourne & Geelong is $15
2 - 3 sets but possibly 4 sets to above listed areas is $20 (up to 10 kg) over is another $5 again
1 sets to Adelaide is $30
2 -3 sets but possibly 4 sets to Adelaide is $35 (up to 10 kg) over is another $5 again
1 sets to Hobart, Perth is $45
2 -3 sets but possibly 4 sets to Adelaide and Perth is $50 (up to 10 kg) over is another $5 again
All goods are insured as well up to $1500.
These prices is just for the freight not packaging as this is another $10 due to the mdf and garden stake brace that I purchase to ensure the blades do not get damaged.
But before committing I will need to check your suburb and postcode with Fastway as areas outside Fastway's city classified suburb areas may mean I might have to add another ticket adjusting the price a little.
The downside and only way to get these prices is that I have to pre purchase a heap of tickets in the hope of using them all as in the end trying to make everything more affordable for you guys. I do apologise to the guys that bought the first batch as freight was dearer for you than that listed above.
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Great work on the freight price there Jady ^^^
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Good new Jady.
Still have not picked mine up from Tim's lol. One day
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here are a few pics of some silver blades installed in an absolutely stunning Medieval Madness by el-timbo (Hot Rodded Pins) - ^^^ top work mate and thanks for the photos.
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and a couple more, and you can just see the mirrored lane protector
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Remaining blades from the 1st Run are as follows.
Proto-type Bally / WMS
Silver Mirror - SOLD OUT
1 x Black Mirror sets @ $110 a set (were $135)
Gold Mirror - SOLD OUT
Note: if I do another run the price of black & gold mirror these will go back up to $135
Stern
Silver Mirror - SOLD OUT
6 x Black Mirror sets @ $135 a set
6 x Gold Mirror sets @ $135 a set
The price of these includes a matching shooter lane protector (value of $5) at no charge
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They look great Jady. Can't wait to get them on my AFM!!
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My mirror blades arrived yesterday and i will fit them to my new AC/DC later today. Quality looks good and packed safely.
Excellent price too.
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Big thanks to Jady on the mirror blades, I ordered two sets and they arrived within 24 hrs of being sent, brilliant service!.I am still to unpack and install them but I am sure they will be fine and be a top addition to my games.
Thanks again mate.
^^^
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Here are 2 photos of el_timbo's TAF Black with the Black Mirror Blades and a Black Mirror Lane Protector
for more photos & info on his restore go to this link - he does beautiful work.
http://aussiepinball.com/index.php?topic=9404.msg121881;topicseen#msg121881
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Hey Swinks
Finally picked up my blades from Tim and fitted them to my ACDC.
They look bloody awsome here are a couple of photos of them fitted very hard to get a good photo between the bright LEDS and not being able to tell where the playfield ends and the morror blades starts
Thanks heaps Swinks top job ^^^
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$#$
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#*#
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That looks great Daniel, thanks for the photos and update
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Have you had any interest from overseas ?
Reason I ask is would love a set but I think postage would kill it.
Just out of interest how much would it be to ship a sey of black to the U.K. ?
Cheers Swinks, those blades look sweeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeet and would look pretty cool in my Addams.
Thanks, Darren.
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Have you had any interest from overseas ?
Reason I ask is would love a set but I think postage would kill it.
Just out of interest how much would it be to ship a sey of black to the U.K. ?
Cheers Swinks, those blades look sweeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeet and would look pretty cool in my Addams.
Thanks, Darren.
Thanks Darren
No interest from overseas guys.
Firstly post offices are strange, technical the blades and packaging easily exceed their handling limits yet some send them. Mine around me refused so I se a local courier.
I would have to make a enquiry for you and in the mean time will pencil the last until the weekend for you.
El-timbo's TAF Black does look awesome.
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Many thanks Swinks, Look forward to the out come of the postage costs.
Fingers crossed.
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Many thanks Swinks, Look forward to the out come of the postage costs.
Fingers crossed.
Checked with 3 companies, very very expensive with the best being $190 ^&^
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Remaining blades from the 1st Run are as follows.
Proto-type Bally / WMS
Silver Mirror - SOLD OUT
1 x Black Mirror sets @ $110 a set (were $135)
Gold Mirror - SOLD OUT
Note: if I do another run the price of black & gold mirror these will go back up to $135
Stern
Silver Mirror - SOLD OUT
3 x Black Mirror sets @ $135 a set
4 x Gold Mirror sets @ $135 a set
The price of these includes a matching shooter lane protector (value of $5) at no charge
Also if I do another batch I will be adopting a great idea recently expressed to me by one of my customers using thumb tacks, has much smaller hole, less cabinet damage and sit flat with minimal catching. So to build on this idea if I do another batch I will still cut 3 screw holes as well as 3 x 1mm pin holes next to (10-15mm away) the screw holes giving the customer a choice of 3 methods to install (screw, thumb tack or tape).
And always willing to consider any other ideas.
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have listed the remaining sets on ebay, if anyone is interested contact me via here and get the cheaper rate and I will remove a set of the blades from ebay.
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have listed the remaining sets on ebay, if anyone is interested contact me via here and get the cheaper rate and I will remove a set of the blades from ebay.
Why don't you just include the $10 packaging into the price mate. Those that don't read the whole ebay description may miss it and to be honest it's a bit cheeky.
On a different note, when I get my pins out of storage I think I may have to look at these....look sweet.
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have listed the remaining sets on ebay, if anyone is interested contact me via here and get the cheaper rate and I will remove a set of the blades from ebay.
Why don't you just include the $10 packaging into the price mate. Those that don't read the whole ebay de******ion may miss it and to be honest it's a bit cheeky.
On a different note, when I get my pins out of storage I think I may have to look at these....look sweet.
your saying having the de******ion that $10 for packaging is cheeky ????
I just try to lay out all the info so if someone is serious they would read all the detail and make an educated decision and I am asking people to contact me for a freight quote so there shouldn't be any shocks and he is just silly if he purchases without asking the question. Plus for the guys that can pickup get the blades at the price listed with no freight or packaging - always hard to please everyone.
Depending on sales not sure if I will do these again so glad to help if I still have some.
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Were you still looking to do a blue set?
Im still in if you are?
Just checking. ^^^
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At this stage doubt it as hard to sell the remaing ones. I get the feeling the market place is small and possibly flooded with silvers. I may still go ahead but apart from yourself and myself, no other interested parties YET.
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#*#
They look great Daniel do they rub at all mine has not much clearance also where did you apron flashers go?
Peter
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edit 3-11-12
Proto-type Bally / WMS
Silver Mirror - SOLD OUT
Black Mirror - SOLD OUT
Gold Mirror - SOLD OUT
Stern
Silver Mirror - SOLD OUT
Black Mirror - SOLD OUT
Gold Mirror - SOLD OUT
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luke got some black mirror blades for his new X-men Pro - looks good
I think black mirrors could look good on any machine as every cabinet has black painted sides and this is a bit of subtle bling with a little bit of light enhancement
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Swinks, Ill take 1 set of Black Stern if you have one please.
Thanks.
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Swinks, Ill take 1 set of Black Stern if you have one please.
Thanks.
No worries I will reserve them for you, what you putting them into?
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Swinks, Ill take 1 set of Black Stern if you have one please.
Thanks.
No worries I will reserve them for you, what you putting them into?
Awesome!
After looking at lots of photos (including the ones you have posted)....My NIB Tron Pro!
Black just seems to add something....Its not so 'look at me' as silver is.
Thanks again.
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Black in tron will look sweet especially if you do the ramp lighting mod
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All 48 sets have now sold out so if you missed out and or held off due to concerns of fitting (totally understand) or did not have a machine ready I am taking interest for another run, if interested please visit the following thread to place your interest as have not determine what I will do for the next run as yet.
http://aussiepinball.com/index.php?topic=9553.0
As for the sales, alot was learnt and not alot of money made but that was not the main goal as I wanted some sets for myself and have got enough money to fund the next batch to be produced. In addition I did it because I think it stinks that other companies are charging a extreme amount for these and freight from the US or Europe for these is a killer.
Lastly thank you very much to all the AP members that had faith in me and supported the cause, thank you very much guys - it means a lot to be believed in and supported. Hope you are enjoying your blades.
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I have 2 sets of Stern GOLD Mirror Blades for sale:
Set 1 - $135
1 set was reserved for a mate that now has notified me that he does not want it, so still sitting in my shed ready to be sent out.
Set 2 - $135
1 set that I reserved for myself but decided that I will not use now.
Or for someone that is quick and wants the last 2 sets can buy them for $250 - so $20 discount.
Each set comes with a matching gold mirrored lane protector FREE
Packaging is $10 per shipment and please PM for freight cost, but as a guide from Newcastle to Brisbane or Melbourne is $15 for one set or $20 for 2 sets but subject to your suburb and postcode so for a more accurate quote send me your suburb to be delivered to and the postcode.
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Love to grab one set for simpson Party pinball.
Nothing for a TZ left?
Just found the posting for these. Sounded a bit sad at the end there. Things looking up?I have 2 sets of Stern GOLD Mirror Blades for sale:
Set 1 - $135
1 set was reserved for a mate that now has notified me that he does not want it, so still sitting in my shed ready to be sent out.
Set 2 - $135
1 set that I reserved for myself but decided that I will not use now.
Or for someone that is quick and wants the last 2 sets can buy them for $250 - so $20 discount.
Each set comes with a matching gold mirrored lane protector FREE
Packaging is $10 per shipment and please PM for freight cost, but as a guide from Newcastle to Brisbane or Melbourne is $15 for one set or $20 for 2 sets but subject to your suburb and postcode so for a more accurate quote send me your suburb to be delivered to and the postcode.
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sorry, forgot to update - all sold
I may try again in a few months time to see if there is enough interest - would be silver and black only
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OK thanks. Silver would be great- 2 x stern, 1 x williams when available
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Damn. I might need another set very soon.