De Laval No. 12 Cream Separator Value Guide

The De Laval No. 12 Cream Separator is a cornerstone of early 20th-century dairy technology, representing the innovation of Gustaf de Laval's 1878 centrifugal invention. These hand-cranked cast iron machines are highly collectible today for their industrial aesthetic and their historical role in revolutionizing small-scale family farming.

What Is De Laval No. 12 Cream Separator Worth?

The typical price range for De Laval No. 12 Cream Separator is $135 - $150 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• Completeness of the unit, specifically the presence of the supply tank, internal discs, and both discharge spouts.
• Mechanical functionality, including whether the gears turn smoothly and the centrifugal bowl still spins.
• Condition of the original paint and the clarity of the De Laval Separator Co. manufacturer decals.
• Presence of original accessories such as the specialized wrenches or the original wooden base stand.

How to Identify De Laval No. 12 Cream Separator?

• Look for the 'De Laval' brand name and 'No. 12' model designation cast directly into the heavy iron frame.
• Verify the presence of the original hand-crank mechanism with its characteristic wooden handle grip.
• Check for the internal centrifugal bowl assembly and the external steel spouts used for cream and skim milk discharge.
• Examine the base for the original black japanned finish or remnants of the iconic gold pinstriping and decals.

History of De Laval No. 12 Cream Separator

Gustaf de Laval invented the first continuous centrifugal cream separator in 1878. His company, the De Laval Separator Co., revolutionized the dairy industry by allowing farmers to separate cream immediately after milking rather than waiting for it to rise naturally. The No. 12 model was a popular hand-cranked version used on small to mid-sized family farms during the early 20th century.