Heard of an “Eclipse” table top Platen?

Stark
on 22 Nov 09 (17:21)

Hi all,
I’m trying to track down information on a small hand-operated platen press that may have been called an “Eclipse”. Has anyone heard of such a model?

It was small enough to fit on a table (I think it would be very similar to a Kelsey) and would print an approx. 5x7” page. It would have been for sale in printing supply shops around 1900 - 1930 (in England? America?).

Any help from the community’s expertise is really appreciated!

platenpress
on 22 Nov 09 (17:40)

Updated 22 Nov 09 (17:42)

An Eclipse “A” Rail press was made by the IBW & Co. in the 1890’s. I have a couple of these with the name cast into the press. The chase size was
1 5/8” x 2 3/4”. It used short lead type, came in a wooden box with a small roller. There is a photo of one on my web site in the slide show, the 2nd last press in the show. http://homepage.mac.com/platenpress/collection/bookbinding.html

Regards,
Paul

Stark
on 24 Nov 09 (15:36)

Thanks, Paul. That is a neat little press - I’m pretty sure the model I’m looking for is larger, with an inking plate above the platen - something capable of an octavo-sized page (approx. 5x7”)

Stark

LampyridaePress
on 6 Dec 10 (09:52)

Hi Stark,
I’m wondering if you ever found any more information about the “Eclipse” hand-operated platen press? I’m trying to trace this press too, but have been thoroughly unsuccessful so far.
Any help very gratefully received,
Anna