Graff-Pinkert - Screw Machines, Hydromats, CNCs

Damn. It’s already 2025? I was just getting used to the idea that it was 2024.

Today, Lloyd and I are reflecting on what worked and didn’t work in our used machinery business and our personal lives over the last year. We’re also discussing our intentions and predictions for the new year.

Will we sell more old multi-spindles in 2025 like we did this year? Will our incoming president be good for precision machining?

And how does it feel to turn 80?

Question: What are your greatest hopes and fears in 2025?

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We had an inquiry last Monday on an expensive CNC turning center from a machinery broker based in Chicago but representing a Chinese firm.

Thinking of a potential profit if we sold it, I asked Noah to quote the machine. His response was, “Dad, we can’t sell it to them. We are at war.”

I immediately knew he was correct. The parts made on this rare machine could be used in a missile or a drone that would threaten the United States or an ally like Taiwan.

I have obsessed over my 80th birthday coming this December 16th. 

I’ve looked at the day with dread, wondering how I can reach it, yet wanting to celebrate it with the hope of sailing past it and moving into a state of happiness.

Why would anybody buy a CNC multi-spindle for $2 million? Or $3 million for that matter?

My guest on today’s podcast, Richard Kingsbury, has the answer. Richard is Managing Director of the Kingsbury Engineering Division, England’s INDEX distributor.