Torpedo Model 20 1953
This is an extraordinarily fine and interesting example of a mid-century Torpedo, Model 20 typewriter. With its matte black finish and silver-gray keys and knobs it has an unusually strong presence. This portable typewriter is a compact and solid typing machine and is in wonderful condition mechanically and cosmetically. The accompanying case, also matte black with a bold Torpedo logo on top, is in excellent condition including the leather handle and the chromed hasp. On top of that, it has a decal on the back indicating its manufacture in the "U.S. Zone" in post-war Germany. This is an uncommon model of Torpedo typewriter in an uncommon colour in remarkably fine condition. This Model 20 has been fully refurbished: serviced, cleaned, adjusted and aligned, and has been outfitted with a new ribbon from Baco Ribbon & Supply in Missouri (considered by many collectors to be the best ribbons available). This typewriter is ready for many more decades of service.
This would be a very fine typewriter for someone who wants to work in two places. It is a very solid machine and sits strongly on the desktop. It is also easily packed into its "bomb-proof" case and transported to other locations. As a desktop typewriter in a single location it is also excellent. It is somewhat smaller than a typical desktop typewriter and so takes up less space on a desktop or shelf. It is a wonderful all-around typewriter with soft, speedy typing action.
The metal body finish is in excellent condition with no visible blemishes. The chrome is in very good condition, with some very light signs of use. The platen roller is clean and smooth and receives typing well (see photos). Note that the character imprint in the photo is somewhat "smudgy"; this is due to a heavily-inked (perhaps over-inked) ribbon and will be crisp and clear in a short time as the ribbon ink dries a little. The Paper Feeder Rollers and the rubber feet are still in fine condition and soft. The decals are all in very nice condition albeit with some light light wear visible on the main logo and the legend below the spacebar.
This is a fully-working--as original--typewriter. The only thing that you have to do is sit down, put paper on the roller and start typing. This Torpedo typewriter comes with the "Acme" lead certification seal attached to the typewriter. This seal permanently identifies this typewriter as a genuine Acme-restored typewriter and provides for a 6-month warranty at no charge. (See below for details.) We guarantee safe delivery and provide careful and attentive after-purchase advice and assistance from the date of purchase to the end of eternity to ensure your full satisfaction. In terms of an investment, the Acme Seal proves that this machine was restored in 2020 by the Acme Type Machine Company. This can add value in the event that you wish to sell this typewriter in the future.
Based on the serial number (659809) this machine is from 1953. The typeface is Pica (10 cpi). The keyboard is QWERTY, with Spanish letters and accents also. This typewriter comes with its two original metal ribbon spools and a new bi-colour ribbon so that you can start typing immediately.
The case is in superb, solid condition with only the lightest signs of wear. The metal brackets that secure the typewriter to the base are exceptionally solid. The leather handle is intact and solid. The chrome parts are in top condition with only some very early signs of light corrosion on the brackets for the handle.
This typewriter has been conserved to our highest standards. It has been fully serviced, adjusted and aligned, cleaned inside and out, and is ready for some serious typing.
For some interesting perspectives on Torpedo typewriters, please see:
https://oztypewriter.blogspot.com/2012/02/torpedo-typewriters.html
And for the model 30 I found one article in a blog:
https://writelephant.com/tag/torpedo/Notes on the Warranty: Should anything require repair the Acme Type Machine Company (an established company in the Netherlands with Chamber of Commerce registration number 74166247) will repair it free of charge when shipped to our workshop. Due to the costs of shipping and the possibilities therein for damage during the shipping process we will work with you to make any required adjustments or repairs at home prior to taking the step to ship it to our workshop in Holland. Should it be preferable due to costs involved, we will also discuss the possibility of bringing it to a local professional typewriter repair service to make the necessary repairs. The warranty does not cover damage due to mishandling or dropping the typewriter, breakage of platen roller knobs or for ordinary typewriter maintenance such as ribbon changing, platen roller renovation, character adjustment due to extensive use etc.
For peace of mind in your purchase, please see my numerous 5-star buyer reviews.
This absolutely exceptional example of a mid-century TORPEDO Model 20 typewriter will be packed and shipped with the greatest care to preserve its condition and beauty. It will be shipped fully insured. Check our reviews to see how our clients react to the care we take in our packing and customer service.
Don't hesitate to contact me for more photos or any other explanation of anything.



