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Torpedo Model 18, The "Blue Sky" Typewriter 1960

€780.00Price

This is an absolutely pristine Torpedo Model 18B typewriter with original QWERTY keyboard . It is in pristine original condition and is working perfectly. The blue colour of the finish is all original; this typewriter has not been repainted. It comes with the original User Manual and the original Torpedo branded dust cover, Torpedo polishing cloth, Torpedo erasure guide, Torpedo brush (in original factory wrapping), key for the case and two metal ribbon spools. This Torpedo has the Acme seal, identifying it as an authentic Acme-restored typewriter and comes with a 6-month mechanical warranty. This is a rare chance to own an iconic Model 18B typewriter in, essentially, as-new condition.

This Torpedo Model 18B is another fine typewriter from the Jake Mulhane Collection where it was known as the "Blue Sky Typewriter", a reference to the rich blue colour of the ribbon cover. 

It is not easy to find a Model 18B, in this colour scheme, in such extraordinary condition and with the original QWERTY keyboard. Most were manufactured with the German keyboard. The Torpedo Model 18 was also marketed by Remington (as the Senior-Riter) and by Blue Bird. This model typewriter is a solid work-horse and this particular example is in top original condition mechanically and cosmetically. The Model 18B, of course, has the tabulator feature. This typewriter has been fully serviced, adjusted and cleaned and is ready for many more years of problem-free typing.

These Model 18's are wonderful typers with a short, swift "touch" and a tight keyboard. It is a good typewriter for writing a novel, daily writing or the occasional personal or business correspondence. (See links below for reviews.)

Cosmetically, this Torpedo is in what can really only be described as pristine condition. The finish colour is uniform and utterly unblemished. There are a few ribbon ink smudges on the rear and on the carriage return lever that were a result of sloppiness on my part and have been removed since the photographs were taken. The only blemishes on the entire machine are a spot (the size of a pinhead) on the carriage return lever and a small area of discoloured chrome on the platen release lever. Why this occurred on an otherwise pristine typewriter is anyone's guess; perhaps a factory flaw.

Mechanically, this Model 18B is working perfectly, as originally manufactured. It is clear that this typewriter was very rarely used. The felt under the typebars is bright white and unstained. There are almost no signs of the usual use and wear that one normally finds on a typewriter of this age. This typewriter underwent what we call a "soft" mechanical restoration. This means that we attempted, as much as possible, to maintain the technical integrity--as assembled at the factory--of the mechanical aspects of the machine. No screw was removed, no part was adjusted, unless it was absolutely necessary. This type of restoration retains the mechanics just as they were from the factory. Nonetheless, all the mechanical aspects were carefully inspected and, where absolutely necessary, were properly adjusted and aligned. 
The platen roller is clean and smooth and has a hardness reading of ~95 on the durometer (Shore A scale--ideal being 85 to 95). The paper feeder rollers are in excellent condition and grip the paper well. The rubber feet are in as-new condition. Both the paper feed rollers and the rubber feet have durometer readings of 72-74. (Note: a newly renovated platen can be installed on this typewriter at a cost of 80€. Unfortunately, due to corona-virus issues, the wait time will be 3-4 weeks.)

Based on the serial number (1237730) this machine is from 1960.

The typeface/font is a beautiful Elite (11 c.p.i.). The keyboard is an original English international QWERTY and has accent keys for French, German and Dutch languages. This typewriter comes with a new, BACO, two-colour ribbon so that you can start typing immediately and with pleasure.

This Model 18 comes with the original hard case, in superb condition, with original key. The external metal parts are uncorroded and shiny, the handle is strong and undamaged and the hasp is in perfect working order. The interior is exceptionally fine condition with no damage to the interior lining. The exterior is in remarkably fine condition with very minimal signs of use. the rubber feet are in very fine condition and very soft.

For some interesting perspectives on the Torpedo Model 18 typewriter, please see:
https://typewriterreview.com/2015/02/19/torpedo-18/
https://oztypewriter.blogspot.com/2013/01/blue-bird-portable-typewriter-torpedo.html
https://oztypewriter.blogspot.com/2012/02/torpedo-typewriters.html

This extraordinary example of a Torpedo 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. It will be fully insured during shipment.

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.

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