I am so grateful for your offer of help Al, the machine hasn't been set up yet. I apologize, but due to computer issues on my end I won't be able to add more photos until after ~6pm today. I did manage to upload a photo of the control panel, and I'll scan the manual that came with the machine and post that along with other photos if that is okay. Crimping machines are so rare, it seems that manual ones have been around since the early 1800s, but I haven't seen any at all for sale.
It seems like less work to make a two piece boot, but having bunched leather around the front of your ankle if you are spending all day in a saddle might cause circulation problems that wouldn't be a problem if you are on foot. I haven't had any problems crimping vamps with tongues as they have a relief cut built in, but crimping the front of a wellington 2 piece with not very stretchy modern veg. tan leather has been a challenge.