Our story
Construction of handcrafted intaglio presses for etching
Tórculos Ribes was founded in Barcelona over half a century ago, committed to providing engravers with the best etching presses. Our team consists of professionals who understand the importance of every detail in the artistic creation process.
1945
Jaime Ribes, a man from Lleida with a war behind him and better known as “avi Jaume,” borrows 150 pesetas with which he buys a blowtorch, a hammer, a cold chisel, and a few other tools, all of which fit into a single esparto grass basket. He secures a small space in a workshop on Llacuna Street in Barcelona, at the foot of the still-preserved chimney of the Pompeu Fabra University Faculty of Communication. There, he offers metalworking and welding services.
1956
At 15 years old, Carlos Ribes Fabregat, the son of Jaime Ribes, begins working with his father. He learns his father’s trade and, over time, assumes the responsibilities of the business.
1971
Carlos – already the company manager – attends, at a client’s request, a lecture at the Institute of North American Studies, where a “state-of-the-art press” is presented. It is the first time he sees such a machine, but he is convinced he can build a similar one, and even improve it.
1972
Carlos Ribes Fabregat manufactures his first press. His extensive knowledge of welding and metalworking, combined with constant communication with his clients, reinforces the quality of his machines.
1997
Carlos Ribes Jr. begins working with Carlos Ribes Sr. Just as years earlier, he learns his father’s trade and gradually takes on the responsibilities of the business.
2006
Carlos Ribes meets Australian engraver Cameron Fraser, and together they design the CAMERON model. A press that maintains the robustness and professional quality of the TC press (the one manufactured up to that date) while being adapted to market needs. Owning a press in your workshop is no longer exclusive to schools, publishers, or renowned artists.
2018
Tórculos Ribes launches the smallest press in its catalog: the Cameron 60×90 model.
Today
We are proud to say that our first presses are still printing after more than 45 years of service.