Hot take: I think vintage bookbinding tools are way overhyped

I visited this old bookbinder's shop in Portland last month, hoping to find some real gems. But honestly, I was let down by all these vintage presses and finishing tools people swear by. Everyone talks about how they give you better control and feel, but I tried using a 1920s backing press and it was just clumsy and rusty. My modern press from Lee Valley cost me $150 and works way smoother, no contest. I think folks get caught up in the romance of old tools without admitting they're often less practical. Has anyone else found that modern tools actually work better for fine binding work?

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wesley_fox922h ago

Bought an old nipping press at an estate sale once and the handle snapped off on the second use.