Blue Bird Model 18B 1960

This is a superb example of a mid-century, two-tone Blue Bird (Torpedo), Model 18B, typewriter. It is a solid work-horse, is in superb condition cosmetically and in full working condition mechanically. This is the original paint finish; it has not been overpainted. The platen has been professionally renovated with new rubber and the typewriter has been outfitted with a new acme "Signature Blue" ribbon. It comes with the original User Manual and Blue Bird branded dust-cover and case key. This typewriter is ready for another 60 years of service. It has a lovely two-tone blue and grey colour combined with the handsome silver keys. The typing action is wonderfully fast and solid. With the new platen, it is a dream to type with. Collectors and users alike sing the praises of the Model 18 typewriter.
 
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 Blue Bird comes with the "Acme" lead certification seal attached to the typewriter under the keyboard. 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.
 
This is a Model 18 "B" and therefore has the tabulator system. The Model 18B proved to be such a popular model typewriter, in so many ways, that it was produced under various brands (incl. Torpedo and Remington) and sold throughout the world. 
 
The body finish is in nearly flawless condition. The keys and spacebar show no sign of wear or scratches. The chrome, unlike on many examples of the Model 18B, is in perfect condition. (Often one sees light corrosion or even rusting, especially along the bands under the ribbon cover and at the bottom of the typewriter, but NOT on this one.) 
 
Mechanically this typewriter is in fully working condition. All systems have been checked and adjusted or aligned as necessary. 
 
Regarding the rubber: Platen Roller has professionally replaced rubber. The Paper Feeder Rollers are new-like and soft. The Feet are soft and grip the desktop well.
Regarding the chrome: Perfect.
Regarding the Body and finish condition: as described above
Regarding the typing keys: uniform colour with no fingernail scratches or other blemishes
 
Based on the serial number (1206335) this machine is from 1960. The typeface is a beautiful and crisp Elite (12 cpi). The keyboard is international QWERTY with accents for European languages and includes the "@" symbol. You can see in the photos an example of the crisp, clear and dark letters that this machine produces. It comes with one original metal ribbon spool.
 
This Blue Bird typewriter comes with the original hard case in excellent condition, in a lovely green colour. The case has some minor signs of exterior wear but the interior is in excellent condition. There is a minor amount of light corrosion on the chrome bits of the case. It comes with the original case key.
 
For some interesting perspectives on the Torpedo Model 18, please see:
https://typewriterreview.com/2015/02/19/torpedo-18/
 
If you are shopping for a typewriter, please note that the Platen (the black, rubber-covered roller on which the paper is wound and which receives the strike of the metal key to imprint the letter) is one of the most important elements for the enjoyable use of your typewriter and for making a correct imprint on the paper. Over time, the rubber becomes hard. This hardness results in an unpleasant, loud clatter as you type, a harder shock to your finger bones, and a faulty imprint of the letter on the paper. In the glory days of typing, platens would be replaced every few years, just like replacing the tires on your car. The typical cost for a new platen is around 125$, not including labour costs. If you are spending hundreds of dollars on a typewriter, take the time to ask the seller about the platen. Ask the seller what is the hardness measurement of the platen. It should be between 85 and 95. Most dealers simply clean off the platen and don't mention the hardness in their description. At Acme we install new platens, at no extra cost, on any typewriter that needs one in order to ensure the best typing experience and the best, decades-long operation of your typewriter. 
 
Notes on the 6-month Mechanical Warranty: Should anything require repair on the typewriter the Acme Type Machine Company (an established company in the Netherlands with Chamber of Commerce registration 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, incorrect use or dropping the typewriter, or for ordinary typewriter maintenance such as ribbon changing, platen roller renovation, character adjustment due to extensive use etc.
 
If you have any questions or wish to see more photos, please don't hesitate to contact us.