From November 1976 Boxford marketed the rear-drive 5" x 22|" Model ME10, a less expensive lathe - though constructed from components identical to the more expensive machines. It was produced in two versions, the only difference being the type of countershaft fitted - the rare Mk. 1 used a standard, rather deep unit whilst the Mk. 2 employed a shorter space-saving type with a distinctive square-shaped hinge-up top cover. Also available mounted on a special stand the lathe was intended to run alongside the under-drive and rear-drive models and could be had in any of the three usual A, B and C specifications. The main difference between the Mk. 2 ME10 and the ordinary rear-drive models was the significantly reduced amount of room required to install it. The countershaft, bolted directly the back of the bed, allowed covers to be used that, unlike earlier designs, required no extra room to swing fully open. As a consequence, fitted to its own cabinet, the ME10 took up only a little more space front to back than the under-drive versions. One difference noticed on these lathes, though it is not certain that all were so equipped, was the use of quieter-running, Oilite-bushed, tumble-reverse gears in fibre. The fibre gears can be fitted to all other models and have definite advantages if the lathe is to be used where noise might be a problem. One (expensive) option was an effective spindle clutch - a fitting that, sadly, was never made available for other versions and remained exclusive to the ME10.