If I wanted to buy a lathe, Unimat.

[Bill736]

Nice machine, but all my money is tied up in small change.

[Tyro 001]

That was the first lathe I lusted after. I was about ten,and just knew I could make anything in the world with it. Never got one. Not to be a jerk, but what good are they with all the inexpensive but decent Chinese lathes available; and why do they cost so much?

[lynnl]

I got one a few years ago, in like-new condition, for $75. It's one of the later ones with the plastic encased motor with the orange slide switch.
No threading atch, nor slow speed or power feed, but it did include the milling column and mount, drill chuck, grinding wheel arbor, and a few other little goodies.
Don't use it often but it is real handy at times.

I had no appreciation of their typical value when I bought it. Later I kinda felt bad, since the seller obviously had no idea either

[ptjw7uk]

Used on of those 26yrs ago.
Had a very novel screw threading attachment, plus milling - only good for very light work though!

peter

[vpt]

I can add stuff!

I "needed one" to make a nearly 2" deep by 3/8" wide pocket in my tool post. Since then I have used it a few times for random small projects. They are handy and will sometimes get you out of a pickle.

Its in my lathes drawer.


Here is was on its first job, making the pocket.


Since then I used it for other stuff.

[vpt]

[Weston Bye]

From a practical position, given the choice between a Unimat and a Sherline, I would choose the Sherline and gladly pay more. Of course, I am biased bercause I own a Sherline and have worked it pretty hard and have done some remarkable things with it.

From a nostalgic point of view, the Unimat would probably win out and I suspect that it would hold its resale value better. There are always old fools and young ignoramuses like us out there who value such things.