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Tag: torpedo

Picked up a new-to-me typewriter, decided to start typecasting

Posted on 2012-10-21

So, I decided to pick up another typewriter when I saw one at Goodwill yesterday. This one is a Torpedo Model 18b, and appears to have been made in 1962 in Germany. Picked it up for all of $20, and it seems to be in great shape except for one pin in the ribbon advance mechanism, preventing it from feeding the ribbon from left to right. As far as manual typewriters go, this is the easiest machine to type on I have ever used. So much so, that I have decided to do my first typecast on it. This machine appears to use some form of elite typeface, which is my preference. (My Smith-Corona Classic 12 uses a Pica typeface.) While I tend to prefer sans-serif typefaces, this is a nice serifed face. Given that typewriters are a new subject for my blog, I guess I should discuss what machines I currently own. My main typewriter is an IBM Correcting Selectric II, which is currently being repaired by Chuck Furrer. Nothing special, but it is definitely my favorite machine. As I mentioned, I also have a Smith-Corona Classic 12 manual typewriter. Not a fan of that machine, I find key effort to be way too high, and don't care for the typeface. I plan on parting with that machine - if anyone is interested, let me know by replying in the comments. Finally, I have a "Sears Correct-O-Sphere" typewriter, which is an electric golfball machine, albeit with a moving carriage rather than printhead. It was originally made by Brother, and rebadged as the Sears product. Rather uninspiring machine, with mediocre key feel, so it's gotta go, too. Shame, it is in great shape. Let me know if you want that one, too. I think that is all I have to post tonight, but I do want to get more typecasting done eventually.
Click to embiggen to a more readable size.

I should probably get photos of these machines, you know…

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