The Art and History of the Bulldog Tattoo Machine in San Diego

As a custom tattoo machine builder at Remington Tattoo in San Diego, I'm fascinated by the rich history and artistry behind the iconic Bulldog tattoo machine. In this in-depth article, I'll explore the Bulldog's origins, evolution, and resurgence in San Diego's tattoo culture. Whether you're a tattoo history buff or looking to commission a one-of-a-kind locally-built machine, read on for the story behind the lore of the Bulldog tattoo machine here in America's Finest City.

Bulldog tattoo machine built by San Diego tattoo artist Chris Cockrill 

The Rise of the Bulldog:

Tattoo Artist Sailor Jerry using a Bulldog tattoo machine he designed and built.

Australian Tattoo artist Des Connolly 

The Bulldog tattoo machine was created by the legendary Sailor Jerry in the 1930s-1940s. It was the second of three iconic frame designs he had cast in Australia by machinist and tattooer Des Connolly. Sailor Jerry wanted a sturdy, versatile machine that allowed for both lining and shading coils to be configured. The long front-loading tube vice was designed to accommodate this.

Sailor Jerry's innovation took the standard thick, heavy cast iron frames of the era and refined the geometry to create the balanced, ergonomic shape that defined the Bulldog. His improvements to the Oahu-style frames gave rise to what is now considered the quintessential vintage American tattoo machine - the Bulldog.

Tattoo Artist Mike "Rollo" Malone 

In the 1990s, tattooer Scott Sterling worked with Mike Malone naming the Bulldog machine, and building 36 of the original castings. This renewed interest kicked off a revival and standardization of the Bulldog as one of the most sought-after vintage frame designs.

Resurgence of the Bulldog in San Diego:

As interest in antique machines grew, contemporary builders began recreating Bulldog frames using old castings and making new castings based on the original dimensions. By the early 2000s, Brazilian tattoo artist Paulo Fernando had crafted accurate castings to feed the demand for restored vintage-style Bulldog machines. These castings are also limited only so many are left at this point.

Today in San Diego, artists like myself build custom machines using these vintage-inspired Bulldog frames as the base. The sturdy Bulldog geometry and excellent balance make it ideal for modern needs. By fitting the castings with updated precision components, we blend the iconic Bulldog with reliable, versatile machinery.

At my workshop, I handcraft each Bulldog machine with vintage brass and steel complemented by modern touchpoints like capacitors and precision coil cores. This marriage of old and new results in Bulldog machines that stay true to their roots while being optimal for creating art.

Part of my San Diego Tattoo Machine Workshop 

The Bulldog Difference:

When done properly, Bulldog machines have an unparalleled look, feel, and performance. The cast iron frame provides excellent stability and acoustics. The split tube vice accepts multiple coil configs for diverse needs. And the compact geometry allows for an ergonomically balanced machine.

Inside view of a bulldog built by San Diego tattoo artist 

The craftsmanship involved also makes each machine unique. My custom built Bulldog machines feature details like hand-turned brass binding posts and intricately braided wiring potentially reducing electromagnetic interference and beefing up the wiring protecting it. These touches give them an heirloom, one-of-a-kind quality.

At Remington Tattoo, our Bulldog machines allow us to create art using iconic pieces of history. Clients are often drawn to the heritage and stories behind our custom-built Bulldogs. When you get tattooed using one, you become part of the legacy of this classic American tattoo machine.

In Conclusion:

With roots in the early 1900s, the Bulldog tattoo machine remains an enduring symbol of old school tattoo artistry. As a machinist and artist, I'm passionate about keeping the Bulldog's history alive in San Diego through my custom-built machines. Whether you appreciate the craftsmanship or lore behind it, the Bulldog is undisputed tattoo royalty here in America's Finest. Acquiring cast frames can be tricky i often have a couple on hand if not i can always make a welded frame bulldog.

Interested in ordering a custom tattoo machine? you can contact me here