Model Master CNC

Rick Hamilton of The Edgartown Jeweler’s Studio in Edgartown, Massachusetts, says the Model Master CNC 1000 (one of the company’s earlier machines) is the most expensive—and one of the most profitable—pieces of equipment he’s ever purchased.

As a custom jeweler who makes charms and jewelry components for other retail stores, Hamilton hasfound the transition from carving wax by hand to milling to be a huge boost to his production capabilities.

“I bought the mill seven years ago and was using it to make models a week after my initial training session at Model Master headquarters in Atlanta,” he says. “It’s allowed me to increase speed and efficiency in my shop without sacrificing quality.”

The only problem Hamilton has encountered with the mill is getting the tool tips lined up in all three axes. “Once you get used to it, it doesn’t take that long,” he adds. “I just find that I need to use a jeweler’s loupe to accurately line it up in all three axes.”

Although the mill was purchased as a three-axis machine seven years ago, Hamilton upgraded it to a four-axis in 2004. He says the training Model Master offers at its facility was essential to help him transition to the newly engineered mill. “Using a mill for the first time can be very overwhelming,” he says. “I’ve been very satisfied with Model Master’s training. They made me comfortable with the machine very quickly.”