The Berkel manual slicers

The Jewel Flywheel

The flywheel is the unmistakable tool of every Berkel slicer. It is a mechanical device having the shape of a disk, which serves to stabilize the rotation, in this specific case, of the blade. The first Berkel slicers, produced between 1898 and 1922, are those with a perforated flywheel with a floral shape, a functional element and a unique design that makes the slicer recognizable and with a harmonious and elegant appearance.
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In 1922, the flywheel changed: its shape was filled and the embossed writings were added. Here we have the models 5 and 7 come to life, which for two years alongside the predecessor model 3. The elements that distinguish model 3 and which will remain also fixed in the subsequent model 5 are the base, the slice adjustment clock and the sliding carriage. Made in the iconic glossy red color, but also in black, ivory and green, they can be placed on an Original pedestal of the time also made by the Berkel brand, or be free standing. In 1929 the flywheel changed again, it will no longer have the lettering in relief and from that same year it will begin to leave room for innovation: in fact, electricity will become an integral part in some models of the new Berkel slicers. The first fully electric model will see the light in the 1930s, although it will never completely replace the manual one, which will always be the most requested. To maintain the charm of the Berkel vintage slicers and ensure their efficiency over time, we have specialized in the art of restoration.
The restoration process requires various stages, which must be carried out respecting the techniques of the time of creation, to keep the value of each individual model intact. Initially we apply the oven painting, to the detriment of the transparent paints, which we have never used in the restoration of a Berkel slicer, as they did not exist at the time and we can proudly say that we are among the few restorers in Europe to have this foresight. We carry out the decorations by hand without the use of the airbrush, which at the time had not yet been invented and we use original copal varnish brands of the time; we issue the “Certificate of Authenticity” and the list of replaced parts. Finally, we guarantee the excellent functioning of the object for five years! Find out more on the Art of Restoration page.