Preliminary bridge design with verified measurements from Pete (thanks!).
The only measurements that may differ from the "actual" bridge are the string retention keyhole lengths (~1mm) and saddle adjustment screw positionings. I hope to complete a working prototype for verification in July/August. Despite the differing measurements as mentioned this will be a drop-in retrofit. Any variations in bridge dimensions (four/five screw holes is one) are open to discussion of course.
Specific alterations to the original will include a recessed earthing solder tag underneath the baseplate and countersunk steel bolts to secure the horizontal member (I keep wanting to use the word "gantry" today because it sounds awesome) to the baseplate.
Alloy composition of the bridge is mainly going to be determined by the availability of stock in feasible quantities here in Finland. I doubt I can afford to get Luvata OY to make me specific bar stock! The two main compositions on the table right now are "free cutting brass" (C36000: 60-63% Cu, 2.5-3.7% Pb, >0.35% Fe, rem. Zn) as used by manufacturers such as Hipshot and common "yellow" brass (C27000: 63-68.5% Cu, <0.1% Pb, <0.1% Fe, rem. Zn) which many horn players will tell you is the most "musical" brass (whilst they spend hours polishing their horns).
I plan on looking into finishes for bridges at a later date, as the focus is on a prototype right now. First port of call would of course be the lacquer finish, followed by powder coating chrome,
black n
gold.