Questions about Speedmaster SM52-1

Hello,
I am currently looking to buy a 1999 Speedmaster SM 52 Single colour unit.
Is it too late in 2021?
My main issue is a tight budget.
Will greatly appreciate your opinions on it.
Regards.

 

How do you mean "is it too late in 2021" ?

 

Hi,
I meant whether I should choose more recent machines in terms of age.
I am new to the printing industry currently doing digital only and am willing to go forward with a printing press since I have to outsource large quantity jobs.
Thanks.

 

I would maybe try to find an experienced operator or someone with similar knowledge who can help you with this. Offset printing can be a little more involved and difficult than some people may actually realize, and having someone who knows what they’re talking about might help you save some money while also avoiding some of the potential missteps some people make when setting up for an offset press.

 

Can I ask what attracts you to that specific press?
A single colour is an unusual choice.
What sort of work / run lengths are you looking at?
If you found one that hasn't been flogged you would get a good press.

 

You will struggle to get a single colour SM52 because they are only available in 2 colour variants & upwards, perhaps you meant a GTO52 or PM52 & you will not find a cheap SM52 because they tend to hold their price, however GTO's can be had for a good price & are good for a start up company.

 

They did make single colour ones but they're pretty uncommon. The big plus with a Speedy over a GTO is the plate change/make ready time but if it's only a single colour then really what's the point?
A late model GTO 52 would probably be a cheaper and less complicated option but without knowing the type of work lined up who knows?
Something that is a certainty is that within most Western countries it's definitely not cost effective to try and print multi pass jobs. Basically these days a single colour press is only good for single colour work, otherwise you just can't compete on price.