Halda "P" Typewriter 1958 Safari Model
This is truly a remarkable and extraordinary HALDA typewriter, in outstanding condition, fitted with a new platen roller and with hard, metal case, canvas dust-cover for the case and original metal ribbon spools. This typewriter is in perfect, original working condition. It has been serviced, adjusted and appropriately cleaned and lubricated. The cosmetic condition is superb.
This typewriter was previously owned by an aristocratic Dutch family with extensive landholdings in Indonesia prior to that country's independence from the Netherlands, and with continued business interests there into the 1960s. The family often went on safari in East Africa (principally Kenya) and purchased this typewriter new, in Jakarta, to accompany them on their journeys. It was custom-ordered through Halda with a metal protective case and a canvas dust-cover for the case to protect it from the harsh conditions while on safari.
This Halda typewriter comes with a 6 month mechanical guarantee and will be shipped worldwide, fully insured, without additional cost.
If you are looking for a "top", museum-grade, example of the Halda Model P, this is your opportunity. It has everything: in perfect working order, professionally restored, superb original cosmetic condition (body finish is completely original) and wonderful, interesting provenance and use. It is unique in my experience and awareness by having the metal protective case and the canvas dust-cover.
As a typing machine it is in perfect mechanical condition. It is a pleasure to type with: smooth, soft, sure and solid.
This machine was manufactured in 1958. The serial number is: P-74792. The Halda typewriter is one of the very few Swedish made typewriter brands and only around 100,000 of the model P's were ever produced. Their distinctive green colour is known throughout the "typewriter world" and they are respected for the quality of the mechanics and of the overall manufacture.
The condition of this typewriter is absolutely outstanding and all original. The finish of the body is in extraordinarily fine condition with no discolouration or fading of the green that one sometimes sees on these Haldas. The only tiny flaw in an otherwise perfect cosmetic condition is a nearly invisible line of wear on the left side of the ribbon cover corresponding with the use of the carriage return lever. It is hard to distinguish that it even exists.
The typeface is Elite (11 cpi) and this typewriter has been outfitted with a new, two-colour BACO ribbon (the choice of discerning collectors). It comes with its two original metal spools in like-new condition. The metal spools are in perfect condition--a very important consideration if you have ever tried to find spools for a Halda Model P. The keyboard is QWERTY. This is the original keyboard configuration; it has not been modified in any way. (Halda lovers will recall that many Haldas have Scandinavian keyboards with the unhandy placement of the period and comma, etc.)
The platen roller has been renovated with new rubber and so is "as good as new". The paper feeder rollers are in excellent, pliable condition. The rubber footing around the baseplate of the typewriter is in perfectly soft and intact condition. The chrome is, generally, in perfect condition. One small lever shows the first signs of some fading, but besides that the chrome is perfect.
The original Halda metal case is in fine condition however showing some minimal signs of wear, especially on the base. The original handle was destroyed over time and has now been replaced with a new, custom-made leather handle. The original rubber feet of the case were damaged and have been replaced, as well. The hasps work well but, sadly, the original key has been lost. The metal case comes with its original canvas dust-cover that fits snugly over the case and snaps closed at the bottom. It is in fine condition except for a small area of light discolouration on one corner and a rust stain on the front. There is also a small tear over one of the closure snaps.
For some comments on a Halda machine, please see:
http://xoverit.blogspot.nl/2014/04/green-design.htmlThis extraordinarily fine example of a HALDA Model P, having already made the long journey from Sweden to Indonesia, Kenya and then to the Netherlands, will be packed and shipped with the greatest care to preserve its condition and beauty. It will be fully insured during shipment. We have a lot of experience in shipping typewriters and have an excellent track record for proper packing and safe delivery.