Thread: Holbrook H17 on Gumtree - Who Bought it?

G'day Gents,

A story of lament for me (but don't feel sorry).

I have been seeking a Holbrook H series lathe for years, missing out on a couple from the UK due to communication difficulties etc. Living in WA one learns that there is not much machinery available for sale here that is not clapped out or priced as if they don't want to sell it. I have purchased machines/equipment/tooling from Holland, UK (x2), Brisbane (x2), Sydney, Melbourne (x2), Adelaide, etc with only three items purchased here in WA. One gets used to paying a large amount for transport in addition to paying for the equipment. OK, you can quit crying the crocodile tears - most of you face similar problems of distance anywhere in Australia outside Melbourne/Sydney.

Anyway, last night I surveyed Gumtree, and behold there was a Holbrook H17 here locally in WA at a reasonable price - and only 150 Km away - Whoopee!!!
Someone had bid upon it and I was waiting till this morning, not believing that my bid at 11pm would have even been read - silly me.

Anyway, the long and the short of it was that it was sold when I attempted to buy it this morning- Oh well, that is life.

So a couple of thoughts:

Firstly, congratulations to the purchaser. If this lathe has not suffered unseen damage, it will be a great addition to your machine collection; and

Secondly, Did a member of this esteemed forum group manage to purchase this lathe, either Western Australian or Eastern Stater? If so, can pictures be posted for the benefit of the rest of the forum as well as a summary of operating experience when such has been accumulated?

I sincerely hope that a forum member was able to purchase this lathe and will look after it whilst using it for the next owner.

So as first mentioned, don't be sorry for me, be glad for the new owner.

Regards and a happy new year (a bit belated) to everyone

Quentin

Crikey Quentin,
What's happening in the west, 2 quality made lathes in the last couple of day's, maybe the same fellow who got the S&B 1024 is downsizing and I know the feeling being at the end of the train line. All the best in your hunt, maybe the New Year will be better. Alan.

G'day Alan,

Yes I saw the Smart & Brown as well, and for what it was advertised for, and how quick it sold (instantly). I hope whoever got it likewise looks after it and uses it. I did not respond as I already have the Minor of similar size and capability - best to see such equipment shared around.

Such a different scenario to what I have experienced over the past seven years of looking here in the West.

As to whether I find a Holbrook H Series lathe, who knows. It is not the most important thing in the world, but to find and restore/repair/use/maintain such equipment is a joy in its own right. Let's put it this way, I think I would rather see someone get such equipment if they were going to maintain and use it to some of its capabilities, rather than it just sit in a shed gathering dust.

Anyway, good to hear from you.

I hope this new year goes well for you, I will get in contact soon - it has been too long mate.

Regards

Quentin