Reading
2B
Reading
Hardware's first return parer is known as the "Reading
2B"
to collectors. However, there are examples embossed with no number, some with No. 2 and others with No. 2B. An 1871 advertisement by Reading Hardware Works refers to the parer simply as the "Reading Apple Parer." Visit the video section of our website to see the advertisement.
As you turn the hand-driven gear the small bevel table gear
rotates the returntable.
After the apple is pared, the paring arm is pushed up onto a ridge near the
center of the returntable. At the same time teeth that line the perimeter
of the returntable gear engage a small spur gear. The spur gear is also meshed
with teeth that line the inside of the quadrant, which carries the paring
arm. This small spur gear rotates the paring arm quadrant in the reverse
direction.
During
this
time
the push-off is engaged by a lip that protrudes from the returntable gear.
When the reverse motion returns the paring arm back to starting position
it is dropped off the small ridge with a snap. The movement of this machine
is beautiful to watch. This parer is marked PATENT MARCH 2, 1869 & MAY
17, 1870 on the paring arm quadrant. Near the push-off on the frame the parer
is marked HARBSTER BROS. & CO. The hand-driven gear is marked READING
HARDWARE WORKS READING PA
|