The Charm of Collecting Old Typewriters – Mechanical Marvels

Why Collecting Old Typewriters is a Unique and Fascinating Hobby

Like collecting things that are a bit out of the ordinary?

Something with a rich history, intricate mechanics, and vintage charm? Well, you’re in luck because collecting old, or vintage, typewriters might be the perfect hobby for you.

I’ve always been drawn to quirky, unique collectibles. And when I discovered the world of old typewriters, I was hooked. These mechanical marvels from a bygone era are like little time capsules, each with its own story to tell.

The Mechanical Wonders of Vintage Typewriters

One of the things that makes old typewriters so special is their incredible mechanical complexity.

These aren’t just simple writing machines – they’re intricate feats of engineering, with hundreds of interconnected parts working together in perfect harmony.

When you press a key on a typewriter, it triggers a fascinating chain reaction. A metal typebar swings up, striking an inked ribbon and pressing the letter onto the paper. The carriage then moves along, readying the machine for the next keystroke. Watching it all happen is mesmerising.

A Trip Through History with Every Typewriter

Collecting old typewriters is like assembling your own personal museum of communication history.

Each machine represents a different moment in time, from the early days of the typewriter in the late 1800s, up through the golden age of typewriters in the mid 20th century.

Some of the most sought-after models come from legendary brands like Underwood, Royal, and Smith Corona. These manufacturers were instrumental in pushing typewriter technology forward and creating machines that were both functional and beautiful.

Famous Typewriters Throughout History

If you’re a history buff, you’ll love learning about the typewriters used by famous figures throughout the years.

Mark Twain was the first major author to submit a typewritten manuscript, for example. And Ernest Hemingway famously used a Royal Quiet Deluxe for much of his career.

Owning a model of typewriter used by your favorite author or historical figure can give you a special connection to the past. It’s a tangible piece of history you can appreciate and enjoy.

The Eye-Catching Designs of Old Typewriters

A big part of the appeal of old typewriters is that they just look cool.

Compared to the bland, plastic devices of today, typewriters have style. There’s nothing wrong with typing away on a Macbook (like I was when I wrote this) but tapping out a manuscript on the same typewriter that Hemingway used to use has an incomparable magic.

From the sleek lines of an Olivetti Valentine to the gold detailing on a Blickensderfer, there’s a huge range of eye-catching designs to choose from. And don’t even get me started on the different colours, from basic black to bright red and teal.

Expressing Your Personal Style with Typewriters

One great thing about collecting typewriters is that you can curate a collection that reflects your personal aesthetic.

Maybe you love the industrial look of metal machines from the early 1900s. Or maybe you’re drawn to the atomic age charm of colourful typewriters from the 50s and 60s.

Whatever your taste, there’s a typewriter out there for you.

And displaying a few in your home or office is a great conversation starter that shows off your unique style.

Using a Typewriter Today

So collecting typewriters is great – but what about actually using one? While they may seem outdated compared to computers, lots of people (including me!) can see the value in typing on these vintage machines.

There’s something satisfying about the tactile sensation of pressing the keys and seeing your words take form on paper. No distracting screens or revisions, just you and your thoughts flowing onto the page. Give it a try sometime, you might be surprised how much you like it!

Creative Uses for Typewriters

In addition to regular writing, typewriters open up all sorts of fun creative possibilities.

Some people use them to make art, typing patterns and designs onto the paper. Others enjoy writing letters on a typewriter for an extra special personal touch.

You can even find typewriters that type in different colors, letting you create vibrant documents that really stand out. The creative options are endless – it just takes a bit of imagination.

Connecting with Fellow Typewriter Enthusiasts

One of the best parts of collecting typewriters is the incredible community that comes with it. All around the world, there are people who share a passion for these marvelous machines.

Joining a local typewriter club or an online collecting forum is a great way to connect with like-minded enthusiasts. You can swap stories, share tips, and even trade machines to build your collection. And many groups organize meetups and type-ins where you can try out different models.

It’s worth joining Antique Typewriter Collectors and The Typewriter Marketplace on Facebook. Both are great groups to dip your toes in for getting info about vintage typewriters as well as picking up the odd bargain.

The Subreddit r/typewriters is also a great place to show off your latest addition to your collection.

Learning from Experienced Collectors

Whether you’re just starting out or have been collecting for years, there’s always more to learn in the world of typewriters. Tapping into the knowledge of experienced collectors can be a huge help as you build and maintain your collection.

From identifying rare models to troubleshooting mechanical issues, these seasoned pros have a wealth of wisdom to share. Don’t be afraid to ask questions – most collectors are happy to help out a fellow enthusiast.

Caring for Your Typewriter Collection

Of course, owning any kind of collection comes with some responsibility. To keep your typewriters in tip-top shape, it’s important to care for them properly.

By staying on top of basic maintenance, you’ll ensure that your typewriters remain functional and beautiful for years to come. And if you’re feeling ambitious, you can even learn to do more intensive repairs and restoration work.

Why Typewriters are a Collectible Like No Other

So what makes old typewriters such a special thing to collect?

For me, it comes down to the perfect blend of artistry, history, and functionality they represent.

No two typewriters are exactly alike. Each has its own unique character, from the feel of the keys to the sound of the bell. And every single one has a story, whether it’s the type of documents it created or the people who’ve used it over the decades.

In an age where so much is mass-produced and disposable, typewriters can take you back to an era of craftsmanship and quality. They’re built to last, with sturdy metal frames and precision-engineered parts. A century-old typewriter can still work just as well as the day it was made.

Finding Your Perfect Typewriter

Starting a typewriter collection might feel intimidating at first.

How do you know which models are worth buying? Where should you look to find the best deals?

My advice is to start by doing some research to figure out what styles and eras of typewriter speak to you. Explore online databases of makes and models to see what’s out there. And don’t be afraid to start small – even a single typewriter can be the beginning of an incredible collection.

Once you have a sense of what you like, keep an eye out at antique shops, flea markets, estate sales and online marketplaces. You never know when you might stumble across an amazing find. And as you connect with other collectors, you may get opportunities to purchase or trade for special machines.

Charlie Foxtrot has a large range of typewriters that are worth checking out and I’d definitely have a look at Etsy. They have a fantastic range of vintage typewriters.

The Timeless Appeal of Typewriters

In the end, the allure of collecting old typewriters is hard to describe in words. It’s something you have to experience firsthand – the thrill of the hunt, the satisfaction of a working restoration, the joy of connecting with history.

These machines are so much more than just a way to put words on a page. They’re portals to the past, each with a rich story waiting to be discovered. And they’re endlessly inspiring tools for writing and creativity, just as functional now as they’ve ever been.

So if you’re looking for an exciting, hands-on collecting hobby that’s a little outside the norm, give typewriters a closer look. Welcome to the wonderful, clickety-clack world of these magnificent mechanical marvels!