Rosback tabletop perforating machine for sale

Over the years I’ve had the opportunity to purchase five different perforating machines. It started back in 2014 when I acquired a Franklin perforator. A little over a year later, I purchased my weathered but trusty Southworth perforator, which I still use to this day. In 2017, I bought and re-sold a Rosback tabletop model, and last year I purchased what I speculated might be the world’s smallest perforating machine.

I’m excited to announce today that I recently bought another antique Rosback tabletop pinhole perforator, and after dusting it off, I’m ready to find it a new home!

A quick summary

This machine, which I think probably dates to the 1930’s or so, comes complete with its original wooden table and metal alignment guides. The larger guide on the rear of the machine appears to be missing one nut and a bolt or two, but it’s a remarkably complete piece. With table, the perforator weighs in the neighborhood of 85 pounds, and it has a footprint of approximately 26″×20″.

The bad

There is some wear and tear. That’s probably to be expected with a piece of equipment that’s close to 90 years old, but let me provide details:

• When I acquired the machine, the perforating pins didn’t go quite all the way through a sheet of paper. Inserting small strips of metal (one of which you can see in the photo below) between the camshaft and each end of the perforating head resolved that issue; I have not attached those strips to the machine, but the future owner may wish to do so.
• During shipping to me, one of the perforators metal legs was snapped off. It may be possible to repair this break, but it does not affect the perforator’s functionality in any way, so I’m leaving that for the next owner.
• There are various cosmetic issues such as nicks and scrapes in the paint that do not impact the machine’s operation in any way.

Now, with those disclaimers out of the way, here’s the big question: does it perforate, and perforate cleanly? Why, yes it does!

The good

Despite its flaws, this perforator has a full set of pins, and following the aforementioned adjustment using small strips of metal, it perforates cleanly. This particular model, like the majority of tabletop perforators in existence, can perforate a line of holes approximately 10 inches long.

In short, even though there are a few flaws, this machine works.

Interested?

I’m asking just $650 plus shipping for this machine. If you’re interested in it, send a message to me, and I’ll be happy to provide an estimate for shipping cost. In addition, if you have any specific questions, I’ll be happy to answer them to the best of my ability.

Update (2021-10-01): this machine has been sold. Thank you for your interest!

Published 2021-06-21 Last updated 2021-10-01