Berkel Model A Slicer: History, Specs & Restoration

The Berkel Model A flywheel slicer is the legendary first model ever created by company founder Wilhelmus Adrianus van Berkel. Officially patented in Germany (Deutsches Reichs Patent), the Model A marks the historic beginning of Van Berkel's Patent in Rotterdam, Holland.

Widely regarded by international collectors as the "Number One" most desirable slicing machine in existence, the Model A represents an unparalleled masterpiece of early industrial engineering and mechanical art.

Technical Features & Historical Innovations

• Integrated Pedestal Design: Unlike later models with optional stands, the Model A was constructed as a single, unified body incorporating its original integrated pedestal.

• Blade & Cutting Capacity: Equipped with a 350 mm diameter blade designed for smooth, precise slicing.

• Central Lead Screw Mechanism: The lead screw (endless screw) that advances the product carriage is positioned along the central-lower section of the carriage assembly.

• Slice Thickness Adjustment: Features an 8-position slice regulator mounted on the right side of the machine body.

• Historical Sharpener Note: Manufactured originally without an integrated blade sharpening unit (blade maintenance was performed separately or adapted later).

• Finish & Plating: Produced exclusively in classic Berkel Red with traditional nickel-plated metal parts.

Technical Specifications & Footprint

• Model Generation: First model designed by W.A. van Berkel ("Number One")

• Patented In: Germany (Deutsches Reichs Patent)

• Blade Diameter: 350 mm

• Slice Thickness Positions: 8 positions

• Construction: Single-body construction with integrated pedestal

• Metal Plating: Traditional Nickel Plating

• Original Color: Berkel Red

Dimensions & Footprint

• Overall Dimensions: 910 mm (L) x 830 mm (W) x 1,280 mm (H)

• Base Footprint Required: 780 mm (L) x 675 mm (W)

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

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

1. Mechanical Preservation & Component Recovery

• Conservation First: Original worn or damaged components are painstakingly repaired and recovered rather than replaced whenever possible.

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

• Authentic Replacement Parts: If components are missing, only period-correct original spare parts sourced from historical Berkel facilities or donor machines are used.

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, environmentally compliant modern coatings precisely reformulated to match historical Berkel Red color 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 decorations.

Authenticity & Guarantee

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