Abstract: A high speed stamping and forming machine (10) is provided having a ram (34) capable of sustained high speed operation. The ram (34) is pivotally attached to a connecting rod (36) which is eccentrically coupled to a drive shaft by means of an eccentric (40) and hydrostatic bearing (50). The drive shaft (30) is journaled in hydrostatic bearings (84, 86) in the frame (12) of the machine. The ram reciprocates toward and away from a bolster plate (20) within a ram bearing (138) having hydrostatic bearings therein.