From what I’ve read inlay is about undercuts, i.e. undercut the
stainless steel, then hammer the gold into place. However as I’ve
only read about it, I’m sure there are experienced people on this
list that would have a better answer.
If the gold was truly inlaid in the watchband, the gold has been
laid into a channel that was cut into the steel and fastened by
mechanical means. There are several ways that this is accomplished,
and it depends upon the size of the inlay, i.e., a larger section or
a simple gold wire design. Without having seen the band and the size
of inlay, it’s hard to say how it was done. If it is a simple line,
the channel in the steel band is slightly undercut, and high karat
gold wire is laid into the channel, and hammered down, forcing the
gold into the undercut which holds it into position. Then it’s
finished off flush. If it is a larger area, the steel may have
little “teeth” raised at the bottom of the area, and either a piece
of gold cut to size or gold wire is forced down onto the teeth to
help keep it in place. The large piece has to fit perfectly, and
there is usually some undercutting of the receiving edge as well to
hold the gold in place.
You may want to find an engraver in your area who can give some more
specifics, or check out various engraving sites online for inlay
videos. Steve Lindsey or Sam Alfano, among others, may have the
you need.
Browns riffle supply company google them… think that is their name.
but know it is Browns… sells a paint on 24k gold inlay system for
guns that should work for you…simple to use and works well… cost
about $35-40.00 for the kit.