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SORRY, SOLD! Exceptionally Fine 1937 Hermes Baby Historical Interest—New Platen!

SORRY, SOLD! Exceptionally Fine 1937 Hermes Baby Historical Interest—New Platen!

€ 1.100,00Prijs

This is the sort of typewriter that sets a restorer's heart racing: an iconic model, from an early year, in almost perfect condition. It does not mean that our restoration was any easier, it means that the satisfaction with the finished product can be that much greater. And we are very, very satisfied indeed.

In extraordinarily fine condition, inside and outside, this typewriter was manufactured in 1937. It was purchased new by an administrator of the Peace Palace in The Hague and was held by the family until quite recently when it was acquired by Acme. On the User Handbook the owner noted the dates of changing the ribbon and cleaning/maintenance of the typewriter—and the costs of that. (See photos.) The dates range from October, 1941, to October, 2012—a time frame spanning 71 years! This User Handbook is the version that employs a cut-out of the typewriter. This version of the handbook is quite rare.

One interesting and odd thing that I found on the interior side of the back panel is a symbol, with red colouring, that is impressed into the painted finish. It was certainly put there during the manufacturing process, although for what reason and meaning, I can not say. You can see it in the photo-montage with the typing sample.

I will let the photos speak for themselves as regards the external condition. The following description is rather long, but I encourage you to read it all. 

Some notes for the discerning buyer:Some notes for the discerning buyer:
1. The Hermes decal, rear panel text and body finish are all completely original to the machine. There have been no touch-ups to the painted finish or other areas.
2. The only replacement parts (that is, parts not original to the manufacturing) are the new platen, new rubber feet and two rubber bumpers on the space bar.
3. The chrome pieces are in exceptionally fine condition, which can be rare in Hermes Babys from this period.
4. The felt lining under the top cover and on the base is in exceptionally good condition. There is some light wear where the keys lay against the felt when the cover was on.
5. The leather handle is pliant and strong. It is completely intact and very usable.

6. All the chrome pieces on the case/cover are in perfect condition. Any mottling in the photos is a reflection from the table top on which it is photographed.

7. Astoundingly, the areas of the front corners of the body to the left and right of the keyboard show barely any signs of use. These areas are commonly quite worn on early Baby's.

8. The keyboard is original QWERTY with symbols for accents needed for French, German etc. The typeface/font is Hermes Pica (10 cpi). A new ribbon has been installed on the original, painted ribbon spools.
9. The enduring shine on the spacebar is a wonder to behold. The keys show no signs of wear.

 

The Hermes Baby is an iconic super-portable typewriter and was partially responsible for a shift in the manner in which typewriters were used by the general public. Its portability, utility and durability were brilliant achievements in mechanical design when it was first manufactured in 1935. This Hermes comes from only the third year of production of the Baby. The Hermes Baby was widely used by war correspondents during World War II and was the portable typewriter of choice for many well-known writers and journalists including: John Steinbeck, Tennessee Williams, the war correspondent Marguerite Higgins, Francoise Sagan, Max Frisch, Frederick Forsyth, Joe Brodsky and even Ho Chi Minh.

For a very interesting review of the Hermes Baby, please see: https://ryanshockeydavis.com/2019/02/20/bartlebys-machines-hermes-rocket-hermes-baby-typewriter-review/
For a fine discussion of the history of the Hermes Baby typewriter, see: http://typewriters.ch/collection/hermes_baby.html
And also: https://oztypewriter.blogspot.com/2012/01/hermes-featherweight-and-baby.html

Like all of our typewriters this one is ready to type with and comes with the "Acme" lead certification seal attached to the typewriter which permanently identifies it as a genuine Acme-restored typewriter and provides for a one year warranty. We 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 by the Acme Type Machine Company. This can add value in the event that you wish to sell this typewriter in the future. 

 

This extraordinary and fine example of a Hermes typewriter will be packed and shipped with the greatest care to preserve its condition and beauty. We have a lot of experience in shipping typewriters and have an excellent track record for proper packing and safe delivery.

See my buyer reviews and you will have confidence in your purchase.

Don't hesitate to contact me for more photos or any other explanation of anything.
 

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