Torpedo Model 18B 1960

This is a superb example of a mid-century Torpedo, Model 18B, typewriter in original condition. This typewriter has not been repainted, the body finish and colour combination is original to its manufacture in 1960. It is an absolutely extraordinary example of a two-tone typewriter from the middle of the last century. It is in near perfect condition cosmetically and in excellent working condition mechanically. It has a newly renovated platen so your typing will be soft and quiet, yet crisp and clear. This typewriter is a stunning example of industrial design from the middle of the last century and is ready for another 60 years of service. 
It comes with the original soft-cover case, original branded Torpedo polishing cloth and two metal ribbon spools on which we have installed a new bi-colour ribbon.
This fine and uncommon Model 18B comes with a 3-month mechanical guarantee and will be shipped, including full insurance, at no additional cost.
This Torpedo typewriter comes from the estate of a wealthy Dutch family living in the middle of the country.
The body finish of this distinctive typewriter is in nearly flawless condition. Despite the appearance of perfection, there are a couple of tiny scratches on the lower back panel and a very small area to the right, below the spacebar, where the finish has been retouched. These are visible (but barely due, to their insignificance) in the photos. There are also a couple of very small scratches in out-of-the-way places (e.g., under the ribbon cover). There is also some light fingernail scratching on the typing keys. The chrome bands around the ribbon cover and the base of the body, unlike on many examples of the Model 18B, are in perfect condition. The levers and other chrome pieces are perfect.
The gloss, painted finish is absolutely original to the manufacture of the machine with no discolouration, sun-fading or excess wear anywhere. 
Mechanically this typewriter is in excellent working condition. All systems have been checked and adjusted or aligned as necessary. It has been thoroughly cleaned and properly lubricated for years of service.
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. Blue Bird and Remington) and sold throughout the world. The typing action is wonderfully fast and solid. 
Regarding the rubber: Platen Roller has been professionally renovated with new rubber. The Paper Feeder Rollers are new-like and soft. The original rubber feet were somewhat harder than ideal, so I have covered them with new rubber pads in order to grip the desktop well.
Regarding the chrome: Absolutely minimal signs of wear.
Regarding the Body and finish condition: Clean, uniform in colour, with only the slight imperfections noted above.
Regarding the typing keys: uniform colour with a few fingernail scratches on a couple of the typing keys.
Based on the serial number (1273330) this machine is from 1960. 
The typeface is a refined and elegant Pica (10 cpi). It has some similarities to the Hermes Director-Pica typeface. It is not a typical big and clunky looking Pica. The keyboard is QWERTY with the all-important "at" sign. You can see in the photos an example of the crisp, clear and dark letters that this machine produces. 
Comes with the original soft case in excellent condition, in a lovely blue-gray colour. The case has few signs of exterior wear and the zippers are fully usable. The zipper "handle" (that little tongue-like thing that pulls the zipper mechanism along) is missing on one side, but the zipper itself close and opens easily. The interior of the case is in very nice condition including the clear plastic pocket.
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.