Berkel Europe Model P Red Slicer: History, Specs & Restoration

The Berkel Model P Red flywheel slicer—famously known as the "Piccolo"—was manufactured exclusively between 1946 and 1954 in Milan, Italy, at the facilities of The Auto Scale & Slicing Machine – Milano.

Engineered with a compact footprint, the Model P was specifically designed for spaces where a full-sized industrial flywheel slicer could not fit. Due to its extraordinary success, timeless design, and mechanical efficiency, it remains one of the most celebrated models in Berkel's history (so much so that Van Berkel International later produced modern homage replicas of this iconic machine).

Technical Features & Performance

• Closed Flywheel: Operates via a 290 mm external diameter closed flywheel, decorated internally with the official decal transfer "The Auto Scale & Slicing Machine – Milano".

• Compact Blade Size: Fitted with a 285 mm blade, providing precise slicing capability in a space-saving structure.

• Slice Thickness Regulator: Features an 8-position thickness adjustment mechanism ranging from 0.3 mm to 2.4 mm.

• Original Paint & Plating: Produced in iconic Berkel Red with silver accents, accompanied by premium chrome-plated metal components.

• Optional Pedestal: While designed for countertop placement, an authentic optional pedestal was available to transform the compact machine into an imposing standalone display piece.

Technical Specifications & Dimensions

• Model Alias: Model P ("Piccolo")

• Production Period: 1946 – 1954

• Manufacturing Location: Milan, Italy (The Auto Scale & Slicing Machine)

• Blade Diameter: 285 mm

• Flywheel Diameter: 290 mm (Closed type)

• Slice Adjustment Regulator: 8 positions (0.3 mm – 2.4 mm)

• Metal Plating: Traditional Chrome Plating

• Net Weight: 55 kg

Dimensions & Footprint

• Overall Dimensions: 720 mm (L) x 590 mm (W) x 435 mm (H)

• Base Footprint Required: 260 mm (Front) x 430 mm (Length)

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

Every Berkel Model P 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: Available with its original antique pedestal upon request, avoiding non-historical reproductions.

Authenticity & Guarantee

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