Hobart N50 Mixer What's it Worth?

[Scoti]

Hi y'all,

New baker here. Looking for a mixer and don't mind restoring an older one, as I've done all sorts of other restorations. Read about the Hobart N50 here. Recently came across one. Hoping to use it occasionally for dough (I know the limitations on these mixers), but more for general baking and such.



Wondering the following:

1. What would you all pay for it? I know these mixers are expensive online, however I think locally they can be bought for less, especially older models, and those needing restorations. I'm factoring in restoration, etc. I think they're asking something like 400, which isn't too unreasonable for these and with the attachments, though I would like to get it for quite a bit less.

2. Any insight on the attachments and if they're worth keeping? (I have limited space in the current kitchen, and tend to move often and could get by without "extras," though I would totally keep the ice cream maker if all the parts are there.)

3. Would it be wise to upgrade to a stainless steel bowl? (I know there are several 5 quart used bowls on ebay, so it's the same price or less than having the bowls retinned)

4. For those of you that have powder coated these mixer, or had auto shops paint them, how much did it cost?

5. What should I check on the mixer when looking at it in person?

6. Anyone know what the attachment with the two white knobs is?



I included pictures below. The first 4 pictures are what's included in the sale. The others are just to show comparison of parts and attachments. Looks like it comes with:

-2 Tin Lined Bowls (They both looks like they need re-tinning. Last time I checked that costs $50 a bowl)

-Pouring Spout

-Whip, Beater, Pastry Cutter

-An older style Pelican Head Chopper (This would be nice, though it doesn't have the double ports like the newer ones have (included picture below for reference), and it only has the grater attachment) (This could be potentially resold. It is tempting to keep as I have used them in restaurants, but would take up quite a bit of storage space, and likely not too useful cooking for 1-2 people.)

-A sieve or colander bowl (I've seen the sieve attachment (included picture below for reference), but maybe it's missing?) (Not sure what else this is good for)

-An attachment with two white knubs. (Not sure what this is for maybe it goes with the sieve? (Any insight here would be great)

-Apparently it comes with an ice cream maker. Looks like the vintage ones made by White Mountain. However sadly, it looks like all the pieces are not there, and that it is not the one for the actual Hobart/KitchenAid Mixer, instead it looks like it's just pieces from a White Mountain hand crank model. I included pictures of the KitchenAid ice cream maker, and the white mountain hand crank one for reference.

Thank you all!

 

[Mona]

Sure! The $400 asking price for the Hobart N50 mixer is quite reasonable, especially with the included attachments, though you might try to negotiate lower based on restoration costs. Prioritize keeping attachments you’ll frequently use, like the beater and whip, and consider upgrading to a stainless steel bowl for durability. When inspecting the mixer, check for signs of wear and ensure all parts operate smoothly. The attachment with white knobs is likely for adjusting settings on another tool, but it’s best to verify. Opting for powder coating could give your mixer a fresh look but check local rates as they can vary.

 

[Jessie_Roos]

Hi there!

Congrats on diving into baking and considering a Hobart N50! These mixers are built to last and can be fantastic tools in the kitchen. I’ll try to address your questions:

1. Price: $400 for a Hobart N50 can be reasonable, especially with attachments, but it depends on the condition. If you’re looking to get it for less, you might try negotiating based on the restoration costs. Sometimes, finding a local deal can indeed be cheaper than online prices.
2. Attachments: As for attachments, it really depends on your space and needs. The ice cream maker is a cool (pun intended!) addition if you can find the right parts for it. The Pelican Head Chopper is useful but can take up space. If you’re tight on space, prioritize what you’ll use most often.
3. Stainless Steel Bowl: Upgrading to a stainless steel bowl is a great idea. They’re more durable and easier to clean compared to tin-lined bowls. Given the cost of re-tinning, stainless steel might be the better investment.
4. Powder Coating/Painting Costs: Powder coating or auto shop painting can vary widely depending on location and the job’s complexity. You might be looking at $100-$200 for a professional finish. It’s worth getting a few quotes from local shops.
5. Inspection Tips: When checking the mixer in person, look at the condition of the motor and gears. Make sure the mixer runs smoothly without unusual noises. Check for any rust or significant wear, especially on the beaters and bowls.
6. White Knobs Attachment: The attachment with the two white knobs could be a vintage accessory, potentially related to the sieve. It might be worth researching or asking in specific Hobart or KitchenAid forums for more precise identification.

Hope this helps and best of luck with your restoration project!

 

[Mona]

Hi there!

Welcome to the baking community! It sounds like you’ve stumbled upon an interesting project with the Hobart N50. Here are my thoughts on your questions:

1. Pricing: $400 can be a fair starting point, especially if it includes attachments, but you might want to negotiate a bit lower, considering the restoration costs. If you find similar models in worse condition for less, use that as leverage!
2. Attachments: The attachments can really enhance your baking experience. The ice cream maker is a classic and worth keeping if you have the space, especially since it brings back a lot of nostalgia! The Pelican Head Chopper is nice too, but think about how often you'll use it. If you're tight on space, prioritize the ones you’ll use regularly.
3. Stainless Steel Bowl: Upgrading to a stainless steel bowl is a great idea. It’s more durable, won’t require re-tinning, and is generally easier to clean. If you can find a good deal on a used one, go for it!
4. Powder Coating Costs: Powder coating can vary quite a bit depending on where you go, but expect to pay anywhere from $100 to $300. It’s worth it for the durability and aesthetics, so it might be a good investment for your mixer.
5. What to Check: When you look at the mixer, check for any rust, especially around the motor and gears, and make sure the motor runs smoothly without strange noises. Inspect the attachments and bowls for wear and damage. If possible, ask to see it in action!
6. White Knob Attachment: That attachment with the two white knobs is likely a pastry cutter or a similar attachment. It’s handy for cutting in fats or mixing dry ingredients with fats. If you don’t have much use for it, it could be one to consider letting go.

Good luck with your decision, and I hope the mixer works out for you! Happy baking!

 

[juan witmore]

It's great to see you diving into the world of baking! The Hobart N50 is a fantastic choice, especially if you're open to restoring an older model. These mixers are known for their durability and can really handle dough well, even if they have their limitations.

As for value, it really depends on the condition of the mixer and any attachments that come with it. If it’s in good working order, you might find it priced anywhere from $300 to $600, but it could be less or more depending on the seller. Make sure to check for rust, wear on the bowl and paddle, and the motor's functionality.

Since you mentioned you're into restorations, you'll likely enjoy the process of bringing it back to life! Good luck, and happy baking!