Berkel Europe Model 9H Red Slicer: History, Specs & Restoration

The Berkel Model 9H Red flywheel slicer was manufactured between 1936 and 1969 by Maatschappij van Berkel’s Patent N.V. in Rotterdam, Holland. In its early production phase (until the early 1940s), it was known as the Berkel Model B9 before officially adopting the Model 9H designation.

With production variations spanning English facilities and South American plants (where a fully enclosed base variant was crafted), the Model 9H Red remains one of the longest-running and most versatile flywheel slicing machines in Van Berkel's legacy.

Technical Features & Engineering Innovations

• Carriage & Bakelite Guides: The carriage slides smoothly along the left side via metallic wheels rolling on a black bakelite guide cast directly into the main machine housing (a structural design evolved from the classic Model NL).

• Quick-Release Clamping Carriage: Features an open-type articulated arm, a stainless steel meat plate with an instant coupling mechanism, and an automatic carriage release system at the end of the cutting stroke.

• Protected Helical Gear System: Engineered with protected helical drive gears and a covered lead screw (worm gear) for long-term durability and silent operation.

• Closed Flywheel: Operates via a 340 mm external diameter closed flywheel, decorated internally with the official decal "Van Berkel's Patent".

• Slice Thickness Regulator & Sharpener: Driven by a precise 15-position snap-on clock dial regulator, paired with a detachable automatic sharpening assembly.

• Original Finishes & Plating: Finished in timeless Berkel Red (historically also produced in Black and Ivory) accented by chromed operational components.

Technical Specifications & Dimensions

• Historical Nomenclature: Model B9 (1936 – early 1940s) / Model 9H (until 1969)

• Production Period: 1936 – 1969

• Manufacturing Location: Rotterdam, Holland (Van Berkel’s Patent N.V.)

• Blade Diameter: 319 mm

• Cutting Capacity: 210 mm

• Flywheel Diameter: 340 mm (Closed type)

• Slice Thickness Regulator: 15 positions (clock-dial mechanism)

• Net Weight: 68 kg

Dimensions & Footprint

• Overall Dimensions: 780 mm (L) x 620 mm (W) x 620 mm (H)

• Base Footprint Required: 280 mm (Front) x 280 mm (Rear) x 450 mm (Length)

The Berkel Model 9H Pedestal

Originally designed for countertop placement, the original Berkel pedestal was offered as an optional accessory. Pairing the slicer with its authentic pedestal allows optimal placement anywhere in the room without taking up counter space, simplifies cleaning, and elevates the vibrant Berkel Red finish into a striking centerpiece.

Expert Restoration Process by "The World's Best Slicers"

Every Berkel Model 9H Red restored in the laboratories of The World's Best Slicers undergoes an uncompromising, museum-grade conservation process:

1. Mechanical Conservation & Recovery

• Conservation First: Worn or damaged mechanical components are painstakingly repaired and recovered rather than discarded or replaced whenever possible.

• Precision Machining: Parts undergo material deposition welding followed by custom turning or milling to restore exact original factory dimensions and mechanical functionality.

• Authentic Replacement Parts: Missing elements are replaced exclusively using original spare parts sourced from historical facilities or period donor machines.

2. Surface Preparation & Eco-Friendly Painting

• Cryo-Stripping: Non-abrasive cryogenic paint removal strips away legacy coatings while protecting the structural integrity of the underlying cast iron.

• Eco-Compliant Paints: Repainted using non-toxic, eco-compliant modern coatings precisely color-matched to historical Berkel Red shade formulas.

3. Traditional Decals & Pedestals

• Authentic Copal Decals: Artwork and branding are applied strictly using traditional copal paint decals matching period color tones. We never use vinyl stickers, airbrushing, or unauthorized fantasy artwork.

• Authentic Pedestals: Supplied strictly with original period pedestals, avoiding non-historical reproductions.

Authenticity & Guarantee

Every restored Berkel Model 9H Red is delivered complete with an Official Certificate of Originality and Guarantee, certifying its historical accuracy, mechanical precision, and long-term value.