OK. I'm now starting off to try Maya to MY fullest.

I'm not great, but doing little steps at a time.

I decided to try and create a pocket watch. I have just learned how to use textures and have been experimenting with them lately. And I'm also experimenting with everything in Maya. Example, this is the first time I have used NURBS and a glass texture.

I have a few of my own concerns to share, and quesations to ask.

1) My glass - I created a solid piece of glass that engulfs the whole watch face. Would it look better or different had I made the glass a thin piece above the face? Also any tips on creating and editing glass would be great. This texture was dl from AliasWavefront site. Followed their tut, but got confused so just dl it.

2) Numbers - What would be an easy way to go about placing numbers on the face?

3) Casing - Since I'm new to this and texturing, I wasn't able to create the best casing texture. I'm going for a gold or polished steel look. I was thinking that I could create a steel texture in PhotoShop and place that onto it. Any Suggestions?

4) Lighting - Using a simple spot light. Any good tips on how to do good lighting?

5) Shadows - Why do my shadows come out looking choppy when rendered?

Thats' all for now. Other suggestions are strongly encouraged.

SOOooo, here is what I have so far.