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SORRY, SOLD! 1958 Torpedo (Blue Bird) Typewriter (Model 18)
  • SORRY, SOLD! 1958 Torpedo (Blue Bird) Typewriter (Model 18)

    €700.00Price

    There are reasons why the "Blue Bird" Model 18 is one of the most coveted of typewriters. It is marvelous looking on your desk and a dream to type on. This is a fine example of a mid-century, two-tone Torpedo/Blue Bird, Model 18, typewriter. It is a solid work-horse and is in excellent condition cosmetically and in full working condition mechanically. And this is the original paint finish; it has not been overpainted. It has a lovely two-tone blue and grey colour combined with the handsome silver keys. The typing action is wonderfully fast and solid. Collectors and users alike sing the praises of the Model 18 typewriter.

    This typewriter was included in the exhibition "Bureaucratic Forms" at Acme Studios: an exhibition of contemporary photographs and vintage typewriters. As an investment, this typewriter is an excellent choice, especially with the new platen. The condition of the typewriter is excellent and with the full restoration and the Acme seal, it should retain its value and even increase over time. Even with regular use.

    About Acme (more about the typewriter below):
    Acme typewriters have been the choice of discerning collectors and writers more than 1,000 times since we began selling internationally in 2016. We safely ship your typewriter from our gallery in the Netherlands and delivery time to the US averages only 3 days—this is a quicker delivery time even than most domestic shipments within the US!  Acme typewriters are guaranteed to arrive safely at your door, are covered by a 1-year warranty, and come with lifetime customer-care. 

    With an ACME Typewriter, you know you are getting 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. Your typewriter comes with the "Acme" lead certification seal which permanently identifies it as a genuine Acme-restored typewriter and provides for a one-year warranty at no charge. In terms of an investment, the Acme Seal proves that this machine was restored in 2023 by the Acme Type Machine Company. This can add value in the event that you wish to sell this typewriter in the future.

    The Model 18 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. For some interesting perspectives on the Model 18 typewriter, please see:
    https://typewriterreview.com/2015/02/19/torpedo-18/

    This typewriter has been fully restored: cleaned, adjusted, lubricated and aligned. It comes with a full mechanical guarantee.

    The body finish is in very fine condition, with very few signs of use or age. There is an area of wear on the right side of the body, to the right of the space-bar. The keys and spacebar show minimal signs of use. The chrome is in perfect condition overall.

    The Platen Roller has new rubber from the Netherland oldest rubber companies. The Paper Feeder Rollers are new-like and soft. The feet are soft and grip the desktop well. 

    The typeface is a lovely Pica with 10 characters to the inch (see photo). The keyboard is standard QWERTY with extra keys for accents for European languages. You can see in the photos an example of the crisp, clear and dark letters that this machine produces. It comes with a new bi-colour ribbon.

    This Blue Bird Model 18 comes with its original case which is in fine condition overall.

    This fine example of a Model 18 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 on Etsy and you will have confidence in your purchase. And don't hesitate to ask for more photos or message me with any questions.

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