Monarch lathes were first made in 1909, when the company produced four different models. A reputation for fine-quality machine tools was quickly established and it is for this reason that the Monarch name is now so widely respected in engineering circles. The larger and more specialised Monarch machines are, of course, beyond the needs of the average model maker, but many enthusiasts covert the smaller Monarchs, especially the 10EE Precision Toolmaker's lathe and its derivatives. Introduced in 1939 the EE was Monarch's best-ever selling lathe and continued in production until the early 1990s. Because they were so well made these lathes have an extraordinary long life, and it is not unusual to find examples of machines made in the early 1950s still playing a part in the toolrooms of internationally famous companies. Additional information about the manufacturer can be found at the web site of the Shelby County Historical Society
Monarch still operate today with, from example, many units being re-conditioned and United Airlines taking delivery a new 10EE in August 2000 - showing that there is still a need, even in this computer-driven age, for a top-quality, hand-controlled precision toolroom lathe.