Berkel Europe Model 3 Ivory Slicer: History, Specs & Restoration

The Berkel Model 3 Ivory flywheel slicer was manufactured between 1915 and 1924 at the primary Van Berkel factories in Rotterdam, Holland. In Italy, this iconic model was officially distributed by Bach & Co. (Piazza Cavour, Milan).

Unlike its predecessor (the Berkel Model 2), the Model 3 introduced a fully enclosed, streamlined sharpener hood (careened closed), representing a major step forward in both aesthetics and operator safety.

Historical Variations & Flywheel Designs

Depending on the production series and destination market, the Berkel Model 3 featured distinct blade sizes and floral flywheel configurations:

• Italian Market Edition: Equipped with a 357 mm floral flywheel embossed with "Berkel’s Patent Rotterdam".

• First Series International: Built with a 350 mm blade and a 399 mm floral flywheel embossed with "van Berkel’s Patent Rotterdam Holland".

• Second Series International: Upgraded to a larger 370 mm blade and a 394 mm floral flywheel bearing the Rotterdam inscription.

• Badges & Plates: Destination-specific metal rating plates were applied—an oval badge on the machine body opposite the flywheel, and a round emblem at the base of the shoulder.

Technical Specifications & Dimensions

• Production Period: 1915 – 1924

• Manufacturing Location: Rotterdam (Holland)

• Italian Distributor: Bach & Co. (Milan)

• Blade Diameter: 350 mm (First Series) / 370 mm (Second Series)

• Slice Thickness Regulator: 15-position precise adjustment mechanism

• Metal Plating: Traditional Nickel Plating

• Original Colors: Red, Black, and Ivory

• Net Weight: 90 kg

Dimensions & Footprint

• Overall Dimensions: 840 mm (L) x 630 mm (W) x 560 mm (H)

• Base Footprint Required: 250 mm (Front) x 300 mm (Rear) x 460 mm (Length)

The Berkel Model 3 Pedestal

Originally sold without a stand, the original Berkel pedestal was offered as an optional accessory. Mounting the slicer on its authentic pedestal allows optimal room placement without taking up counter space, simplifies cleaning, and enhances the visual impact of the historic Ivory finish.

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

Every Berkel Model 3 Ivory 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 components are repaired rather than replaced whenever possible.

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

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

2. Paint & Aesthetic Restoration

• Cryo-Stripping: Non-abrasive cryogenic stripping removes old finishes while preserving the structural integrity of the cast iron.

• Eco-Compliant Paints: Repainted with modern, non-toxic, eco-compliant coatings reformulated to match historical color shades—including classic Berkel Ivory.

3. Authentic Decals & Finishes

• Original Copal Decals: Branding and trim are executed strictly using authentic copal paint decals. 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 3 Ivory is delivered complete with an Official Certificate of Originality and Guarantee, certifying its historical accuracy and mechanical precision.