there is such a thing as a "traditional 1 1/8" threadless headset". here's one Ritchey Logic Comp 1 1 8 Threadless Black Headset | eBay with cartridge bearings. the cups press in and the cartridge bearings drop in the cups. AFAIK it is designed for a metal 1 1/8" (inside diameter) headtube.

a pic would help a lot.