The rolltop desk is simply a “pedestal desk”–a top set on two columns of drawers–with a top case added. All rolltop desks have a three-sided cabinet that has tracks routed along the top and front edges of each side, lined with metal or plastic so that the roll part, or “tambour,” will slide easily.

What is the point of a roll top desk?

The small drawers, pigeonholes, and shelves provided storage for writing utensils, fresh paper, ink, envelopes, and stamps. The most attractive element of the roll top desk was the slatted wood cover called a tambour, which rolled down and locked. This attractive feature concealed any clutter or work in progress.

Does a roll top desk come apart?

A rolltop desk has a wide variety of moving parts including the drawers and the actual roll top cover. Any one of these components could be damaged during transportation. … If your roll top desk is a model that comes apart in two pieces (a bottom half and a top half), separate the two sections before attempting to move.