VINTAGE LATHES
Acquiring old lathes has become a passion of sorts; below are some of the machines from yesteryear I am either currently using or in the process of restoring to working order.

Centauro T5E-1600 Automatic Hydraulic Copy Lathe (circa 1994)

I was already a hydraulic copy lathe guy, having used and then sold a Spanish machine from the 1980's (Calpe MH-1600), so when a huge job came along that justified the upgrade to this Italian beauty from the mid-90's I jumped at the opportunity, especially since it was already in working condition, came "loaded" with extras, and, for once, an operators manual. This beast wasted no time in becoming the heart of my architectural and furniture component production practice. Read more...

Shawver Co. "Twist Machine" (circa early 1900's)

I discovered this gem in a neglected out building of a company that had long since moved on, technology-wise; fortunately, it had a sample piece of work with it or I would not have known what it does. This is the Shawver Co. "Twist Machine," which is basically a lathe that cuts wooden spindles to look like twisted rope. I've since acquired a machine called the Legacy Ornamental Mill that accomplishes the same effect using a router, but it's pretty cool to know I can do it the "old way" if I want to. Read more...

Ober No. 11 "Axe Handle" Lathe (circa early 1900's)

A lucky find at an online auction I would not have known about but for a tipster, this machine, patented in 1875, makes axe handles and other such asymmetrical shapes. She's rusty, and possibly missing a piece or two, but am I ever eager to get her running again!. Read more..

L. Power & Co. Long Bed Lathe (circa 1900 or so)

This beauty was a gift from Shepherdstown's late great citizen and benefactor, Jay Hurley. It included the counter, or "jackshaft" assembly with which the lathe was powered by steam in a line shaft shop. I'll be introducing her to an electric motor for the first time, but everything else about her - including Babbit bearings I'm learning to pour - is absolutely old school, including the 16-foot timbers that make up the bed. Read more...

Bacci T4MO Automatic Hydraulic Copy Lathe, circa 1990's

This machine turns asymmetric forms like the axe handles the Ober No.11 above was famous for producing, but four at a time! That is, if I ever get her running. Other priorities have occupied center stage, but some day...Read more...

General 260 Wood Lathe w/ Extension, circs mid-90's

This 1990's era Canadien-built General Model 260 lathe with bed extension pushed the distance between centers I could turn to a full 8 feet. It was fully operable and in great shape when I purchased her (for a welcome change!).