Our Superb Columbian Press Dates Back to Pre 1835…… Clymer & Dixon
Remgold are proud owners of the stunning nineteenth-century iron hand press, how impressive is this?
The first iron printing press was built in England around 1800 by Lord Stanhope. George Clymer built the second in Philadelphia in 1813. The Columbian was not very well received in America, probably because of its great weight. So, Clymer went to England where he manufactured and sold his press successfully. The massive cross beam, advantageously linked to the operating handle, is the principle unique to the Columbian. After pulling the impression, the counter-weighted lever (most often weighted with an iron eagle) returns the platen to open position.
The fantastic decoration peculiar to the Columbian was not a reflection of the taste of the times, but an intentional effort on the part of Clymer to make the press unforgettable. The serpents, eagle, caduceus, etc. were a sales technique. Lord Stanhope’s press has an extremely austere and modern appearance compared to the Columbian.
Decoration aside, the Columbian was a fine press and was held in such high regard by pressmen that its manufacture continued for a century.
It was designed to allow large formes, such as a broadsheet newspaper page, to be printed at a single pull. The press worked by a lever system, similar to that of the Stanhope press and quite different from the toggle action of the slightly later English Albion press. Clymer's new iron press was first advertised in April 1814.
Specialists in Used Printing Machinery
Speedmalt, a subsidiary of Remgold Ltd is a specialist buyer and supplier of used printing machinery. With over 40 years experience in the printing industry, we have bought, sold and shipped hundreds of used printing machines and finishing equipment to clients all over the world. Our expert team are knowledgeable on all the latest machinery from leading manufacturers including Heidelberg, Komori and Ryobi etc.
Also, we offer used printing machinery and finishing equipment engineering services. Our highly skilled and experienced team of engineers are able to dismantle, refurbish, relocate and install used printing machinery.
To enquire about our used printing machinery stock or engineering services please contact us on +44 (0)1924 265423 or simply email sales@speedmalt.co.uk with your request.