Imahashi FAC8 faceting machine

[RobertM]

Does anyone have and use the Imahashi machine? How good is it ? I have been offered one. I have a Polymtrix chrystal 88. I have been told that the Imahashi is a better machine!

[Hummingbirdstones]

Hi Robert,

There aren't very many faceting folks on this forum, so I would suggest you hop over to the Gemology Online forum at http://www.gemologyonline.com/Forum/phpBB2/viewforum.php?f=8 and ask there.  There are a lot of faceters on that list who probably would know the Imahashi attributes and drawbacks.  You could also try the USFG list in Yahoo Groups.

Good luck!

[slabbercabber]

The Imahashi is the Rolls Royce of faceting machines.  No wood is used.  It is very heavily built and once set the handpiece will work on multiple bases.  I sold one a few years ago without any of the abrasive plates for $1400 on Ebay.  That was just a lucky buy at a an estate auction.  No one new what it was and I got it for $50.  The only problem you may have is that it is not marketed in the US.  You will need to order parts from Japan unless you can find a global supplier.

[RobertM]

Thanks for the replies! That is what I was told, but I am in South Africa so spares will be harder to acquire!

[Isotelus]

As already said and I must say the same. Two facetor friends  I know use them and would not cut on any other.

[RobertM]

Thanks Isotelus, I just have to find the cash!