Berkel Model H Slicer: History, Specs & Restoration

The Berkel Model H push-type slicer was originally patented in the United States and manufactured starting in 1932 at the historic factory in La Porte, Indiana, before production expanded into Europe.

Affectionately nicknamed the "Slot Machine" by collectors due to its unique mechanical action, the Model H operates via a distinctive hand lever. Operating this lever simultaneously moves the product carriage back and forth while automatically driving the rotation of the blade. Designed purely for countertop placement, it is one of the most innovative and compact manual slicers in Van Berkel history.

Technical Features & Mechanical Innovations

• Lever-Driven Mechanism: Unique push-type operation ("Slot Machine" action) where a single hand lever controls both carriage displacement and automatic blade rotation.

• Continuous Slice Regulator: Features a smooth, continuous slice thickness adjustment knob located on the lower right side (graduated from 0 to 40). Unlike traditional flywheel models with fixed-notch position settings, the Model H offers stepless control similar to modern commercial slicers.

• Compact Countertop Design: Built exclusively for tabletop use—manufactured without an original pedestal due to its space-saving dimensions and lightweight structure.

• Blade & Cutting Capacity: Fitted with a 255 mm blade, providing a cutting capacity of 165 mm (width) x 125 mm (height) x 150 mm (length).

• Lightweight Precision: Weighs just 31.5 kg, making it one of the most agile manual slicers engineered by Berkel.

Technical Specifications & Dimensions

• Model Alias: "Slot Machine"

• Production Year: Introduced in 1932

• Manufacturing Origins: La Porte, Indiana (USA) & European Facilities

• Blade Diameter: 255 mm

• Cutting Capacity: 165 mm (W) x 125 mm (H) x 150 mm (L)

• Slice Thickness Regulator: Stepless continuous dial (0 – 40 scale)

• Operation Type: Manual lever push-type drive

• Net Weight: 31.5 kg

Dimensions & Footprint

• Overall Dimensions: 580 mm (L) x 410 mm (W) x 485 mm (H)

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

Every Berkel Model H 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 parts are painstakingly repaired and recovered rather than replaced whenever possible.

• Precision Machining: Components are resurfaced using material deposition welding followed by custom turning or milling to restore exact original factory dimensions and lever functionality.

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

2. Surface Preparation & Eco-Friendly Painting

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

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

3. Traditional Decals & Finishes

• 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.

Authenticity & Guarantee

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