Berkel Europe Model 3 Black
Manufactured in Rotterdam between 1915 and 1924, the Berkel Model 3 Flywheel Slicer in Black is a rare and striking masterpiece of early 20th-century industrial design. Marketed in Italy through the prestigious distributor Bach & Co. (Piazza Cavour, Milan), this model marked a major engineering step forward from the earlier Model 2 by introducing a streamlined, fully enclosed blade sharpener mechanism.
While produced in red, ivory, and black, the black finish offers a sophisticated, understated elegance that creates a stunning visual contrast against its bright nickel-plated metal accents and iconic floral design flywheel.
Vintage Black Berkel Model 3: Elegant Floral Flywheel Slicer (1915–1924)
Manufactured in Rotterdam between 1915 and 1924, the Berkel Model 3 Flywheel Slicer in Black is a rare and striking masterpiece of early 20th-century industrial design. Marketed in Italy through the prestigious distributor Bach & Co. (Piazza Cavour, Milan), this model marked a major engineering step forward from the earlier Model 2 by introducing a streamlined, fully enclosed blade sharpener mechanism.
While produced in red, ivory, and black, the black finish offers a sophisticated, understated elegance that creates a stunning visual contrast against its bright nickel-plated metal accents and iconic floral design flywheel.
Historical Details & Technical Innovations
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Blade Evolution: Early production models featured a 350 mm blade, which was upgraded to a 370 mm blade in later production runs.
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Market-Specific Floral Flywheels: The outer diameter and embossed text of the floral flywheel varied by market and production series:
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Italian Market Series: 357 mm outer diameter, embossed with “Berkel’s Patent Rotterdam”.
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First Series (International): 399 mm outer diameter, embossed with “van Berkel’s Patent Rotterdam Holland”.
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Second Series (International): 394 mm outer diameter, embossed with “van Berkel’s Patent Rotterdam Holland”.
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Identification Badges: Authentic units feature historic marker plates—an oval badge on the side opposite the flywheel and a round plate affixed to the lower base of the shoulder.
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15-Position Slice Regulator: Precise slice thickness control mechanism offering 15 distinct slicing positions.
Technical Specifications & Dimensions: Berkel Model 3 Black
Whether installed on a workbench or showcased on its custom cast-iron pedestal, here are the official specifications:
| Feature | Specification / Measurement |
| Base Footprint (Feet) | 250 mm (Front) × 300 mm (Rear) × 460 mm (Base Length) |
| Total Machine Size | 560 mm (Height) × 840 mm (Length) × 630 mm (Width) |
| Net Weight | 90 kg |
| Color & Finish | Deep Black with nickel-plated metal components |
| Pedestal Option | Original restored Berkel cast-iron pedestal available upon request |
A Rare Collector’s Item
Originally serving high-end butcher shops and gourmet delicatessens throughout Europe, the Black Berkel Model 3 is one of the most sought-after mechanical art pieces in the world today. Placing it on its original pedestal frees up counter space, allows for easy 360-degree cleaning, and turns this historic flywheel slicer into an unforgettable focal point for luxury kitchens and fine art collections.
