01
Cast Iron C-Frame
Heavy-duty rigid casting engineered to withstand high compression forces.
Curio Gallery
01 / 02
01 / 02Astor No. 2 Cast Iron Spindle Button Press — photograph 1
Highlights
Why this object
still matters.
An authentic mid-century Astor No. 2 manual spindle press featuring a cast-iron C-frame and steep-pitch spiral drive. Built for upholstery button covering and eyelet setting, it mounts directly to a workbench via its integrated flange base.
02
Embossed Identification
Distinctive raised 'ASTOR 2' factory lettering cast along the curved arm.
03
Fast-Action Spindle
Steep-helix multi-start thread provides rapid stroke travel per lever sweep.
04
Counterbalanced Lever
Curved steel arm with spherical knob ensures smooth operational return and leverage.
05
Bench Mount Base
Sturdy cast mounting bracket pre-drilled for permanent table attachment.
06
Authentic Patina
Original working character preserved without modern abrasive restoration.
Specifications
The useful facts,
clearly recorded.
Measurements, construction, identity, and seller-supplied details are kept together for direct comparison.
Reviewed · Curio catalogue
Maker
Astor-Werk Otto Berning & Co., Schwelm, Germany
Origin
Germany
Year
1935
Department
scientific-instruments
Packed shipment
4 kg · 40 × 30 × 25 cm
Manufacturer
Astor-Werk Otto Berning & Co.
Model
Astor 2
Drive Type
Multi-start spiral quick-action screw
Construction
Cast iron frame with forged steel spindle and lever
Mounting
Flanged base with bolt holes for bench mounting
Details
Close inspection,
recorded in photographs.
Detail № 01 · Astor No. 2 Cast Iron Spindle Button Press — photograph 2
Heritage
A traceable life,
carefully recorded.
Provenance documentation was not supplied for this specific Astor No. 2 Cast Iron Spindle Button Press; this listing is based on the supplied photographs only.
Workshop Heritage
Crafting the Tailored Button
Shown from the side in the first photograph, the rigid C-frame and rapid-acting spiral screw provided uniform compression, allowing mid-century upholsterers to cover buttons and punch eyelets with consistent, repeatable factory precision.
Industrial Engineering
Mechanical Simplicity
Visible in the second photograph, the counterweighted steel handle smoothly rotates the multi-start spindle. The deliberate mechanical leverage turned hand motion into high downward force, making Astor machines legendary workhorses in European craft shops.
Timeline
An object in time,
one continuous story.
1919
Founding of Astor-Werk
Otto Berning establishes Astor-Werk in Schwelm, specializing in button-making machinery.
1930
Introduction of Model 2
Astor expands its bench-mounted spindle press range for industrial textile workshops.
1955
Postwar Manufacturing Peak
Standardized manual presses become workshop staples across European upholstery trades.
2000s
Collector Appreciation
Heavy cast iron Astor presses gain value among leather crafters and industrial tool collectors.
Condition
Honest wear,
documented clearly.
Shows age-appropriate patina, surface oxidation, and finish wear across the black-painted iron body. The steel spindle and counterbalanced arm show minor surface rust but retain crisp mechanical threading.
✓
InspectedFrame Finish
Scattered paint chipping and light surface grime across the cast iron casting.
✓
InspectedSpiral Spindle
Intact multi-lead spiral thread exhibiting minor oxidation without structural damage.
✓
InspectedLever & Counterweight
Steel operating handle shows finish loss and pitting consistent with workshop use.
✓
InspectedNameplate & Markings
Cast 'ASTOR 2' lettering is crisp; small brass maker tag is present with aged patina.
Logistics
Inspected, insured,
door to door.
Step 01
Delivery
Inspected, photographed, and packed with its condition report.
Step 02
Shipping
Custom-fit protective packing with tracked, insured courier service.
Step 03
Returns
Return requests are accepted within fourteen days of confirmed delivery.
Step 04
Dispatch
Prepared for courier handoff within three to five business days.
Acquisition
Make it part of
your collection.
Contact the seller for more information or to discuss this object.
✓ Insured Shipping✓ 14-Day Returns✓ Condition Report✓ Reviewed Listing
Astor No. 2 Cast Iron Spindle Button Press