A paper making machine contains a filter or screen cylinder and an external filter or wire guided over guide rolls, the external filter or wire being trained about the filter cylinder. The stock suspension is introduced by means of a free jet-headbox between the cylinder and the external filter, into an essentially linear portion of the external filter or wire, if desired while carrying out a dewatering operation. The removal of the fiber web or fleece is accomplished directly from the filter cylinder on to a felt web.