Seldom found, this German-made Traub "bench precision" lathe is unusual in having a twin-bar bed instead of the more usual flat-topped, bevelled-edge type seen on this class of machine. While twin-bar bed lathes are generally considered inferior - and a maker's way of obtaining "reasonable accuracy at a reasonable cost" - it is still possible to produce an exceptionally accurate lathe using this arrangement; examples that come to mind include the ingenious multi-function English Scope, the French Codima and the modern German Wabeco range. The Swiss-made Lesto (also listed as the Scinta, Cintra and Blasi) was similar, though it could be argued that this machine does not fall into the same, higher-precision class.
Shown as "toolmaker" type, with a screw-feed compound slide assembly it is, unfortunately, not known if the makers offered a range of accessories that would have allowed the Traub to perform in the other two roles common to this type: second-operation and production capstan. Nor is it known if the makers listed the usual wide range of parts to extend this type of lathe's versatility - commonly a large set of collets in both draw-tube and lever-operated types, dividing attachments, hardened steel faceplate with tapped holes, high-speed grinding and milling heads for use in the toolpost, hand T-rests, a screwcutting attachment to drive the top slide, alternative toolposts, milling slides and steadies, etc.
Famous for their their well-known, high-class "Swiss Auto" type production lathes and accessories, little is known of Traub's other models and, should any reader be able to provide further information, the writer would be interested to hear from you.