Built in 1972. Still running daily in 2025.

Inside Kitamura’s own factory in Japan, a remarkable piece of engineering history continues to shape the future. Installed over 50 years ago, the original Kitamura plano-miller is still in daily production—still cutting, still accurate, and still returning profit more than half a century later.

This legendary machine was a groundbreaking innovation of its time, combining the robust structure of a planer with the versatility and precision of a milling machine. Designed and built entirely by Kitamura, the plano-miller represented a turning point in large-scale machining, setting new standards for precision, durability, and productivity.

More than just a piece of equipment, it stands as living proof of Kitamura’s philosophy: uncompromising quality, meticulous craftsmanship, and a relentless pursuit of perfection. Every Kitamura machine built today carries that same DNA—machines designed not just to perform, but to endure.

Invest once. Benefit for decades.
That’s the Kitamura difference.

From 1972 to 2025, the legacy of precision continues. While technology and manufacturing have evolved dramatically, Kitamura’s engineering values remain timeless. Their machines are built with exacting Japanese craftsmanship and advanced design principles that ensure exceptional accuracy, long-term reliability, and unmatched performance across generations.

In the UK, this legacy is proudly represented and supported by Dugard, Kitamura’s exclusive supplier and service partner. With decades of experience in machine tool distribution, Dugard brings the same commitment to quality, technical expertise, and customer service that defines Kitamura’s global reputation. Together, Kitamura and Dugard provide UK manufacturers with access to world-class machining technology—machines that don’t just meet production needs today but continue delivering value for decades to come.

From the smallest vertical machining centres to advanced five-axis solutions, every Kitamura model is engineered to the same uncompromising standard that has kept the original plano-miller running flawlessly for over half a century. It’s a testament to engineering done right—a true investment in longevity and precision.

Kitamura’s history is not just about machines; it’s about trust, craftsmanship, and performance proven over time. And with Dugard’s support in the UK, that same legacy continues to empower modern manufacturers—helping them build their own success stories that will last for generations to come.

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