No. 1 Cast Iron Arbor Press – Vintage Bench Tool, 15 lbs

A vintage No. 1 arbor press, built in cast iron with a green enamel industrial finish. This bench-mounted press features a lever-operated rack-and-pinion ram and a slotted anvil base, designed for staking, riveting, press-fitting, and other precision shop tasks. Solid and compact, it remains both functional and collectible.

Arbor presses like this became workshop standards during the mid-20th century, valued for their reliability in machine shops, garages, and toolrooms. The “No. 1” designation was commonly used across several makers, including Greenerd and Dake, though this example’s lighter 15 lb build aligns more closely with smaller-capacity presses (around ¼-ton). Greenerd, for example, produced a nearly identical No. 1 press in the 1950s, while Dake’s heavier 3-ton No. 1 represents the industrial end of the spectrum. This piece demonstrates the same durable cast construction and practical design that made such tools indispensable for generations of craftsmen.

Condition:
Good overall, with rust/oxidation, finish wear/loss, and surface marks consistent with age and prior use. Signs of use visible throughout, but structurally sound with smooth lever and ram movement. Comes exactly as shown, with age-appropriate wear that does not affect operation.

Dimensions:
13" x 10" x 5"
Weight: 15 lbs