Abstract: A machine tool such as a lathe including a control device for enabling manual operation of carriages which are movable in mutually orthogonal directions. During manual operation, the control device and the longitudinally moving carriage are moved in tandem. The control device may be disengaged from the carriage, e.g., for safety reasons, such that rapid movement of the carriages under the control of an automatic control unit is possible. The control device has rollers disposed in guideways arranged on a stationary support connected to the lathe bed. The stationary support may similarly include guideways for sidably supporting movable covers. A lever selectively engages or disengages the control device and the carriage. Upon engagement of the control device and the carriage, an inductive proximity switch is actuated to prevent rapid traverse of the carriages.