Typewriter recommendation

[PolarSystem]

I'm working as a journalist and would like to get my hands on a typewriter, but I don't know which model to get. I'm not looking for something extremely rare that will cost me a fortune. My idea is to start typing my memoirs and maybe sometime in the future publish it. I know things need to be digital and I already have that part covered, but I'd also like a vintage style version. What would be a good choice for a beginner like me?

 

[MrChow]

Olympia SG1.. Find the one with a typeface you love. Its worth it.

 

[thelastONE]

Great options include the Smith-Corona Silent or Classic 12, or the Hermes 3000 if you can find one reasonably priced. They're reliable, not too rare, and easy to maintain. These models have a nice typing feel and are great for long form writing like memoirs. Look for one that's been cleaned and tested, or just be ready to do a little basic maintenance

 

[PolarSystem]

Thanks for the tips guys, I'll keep your suggestions in mind. Meanwhile I found a guy closeby that sells Royal Quiet De Luxe from 1956 I think. What do you think about that?

 

[phdezra]

Hi @PolarSystem -- I'd actually pass on that Royal Quiet De Luxe (I have one, ca 1950) - the keyboard layout can be pretty frustrating compared to some better options out there. For the same money (or less), you could snag one of the machines that @thelastONE mentioned as captured great ones, which would give you a much better typing experience. Also, consider an Olympia (besides SM9), plenty of good options such as Olympia SM3, IMHO. Though the Corona Silent/Super that @thelastONE mentions is GREAT in term of ergonomics and light touch and speed, IMHO! I have a Super and LOVE it.

Since you're just starting out it seems(?), I'd especially recommend looking for a Hermes Media 3 instead. I've mentioned this gem in other posts because it's essentially 95% of a Hermes 3000 at a fraction of the price. Same keyboard layout, typing action, build quality, and that signature buttery-smooth feel that makes Hermes famous.

Mainly cosmetic changes, frankly - simpler exterior styling, slightly different badge/nameplate design, and fewer color options. The 'Media 3' name was a marketing refresh AFAIK to appeal to a broader consumer base, but the guts are nearly identical. A Hermes 3000 in excellent working order will cost you significantly more than where you probably want to spend right now in your typewriter journey. But if money's no object, absolutely go for the 3000! Otherwise, the Media 3 gives you that premium Hermes experience without the premium price tag.

You'll thank yourself later for holding out for something with better ergonomics than that Royal! I have one in great working order and condition, but I plan on selling. Here are my three that I mention:

Ezra

 

[PolarSystem]

Hi @PolarSystem -- I'd actually pass on that Royal Quiet De Luxe (I have one, ca 1950) - the keyboard layout can be pretty frustrating compared to some better options out there. For the same money (or less), you could snag one of the machines that @thelastONE mentioned as captured great ones, which would give you a much better typing experience. Also, consider an Olympia (besides SM9), plenty of good options such as Olympia SM3, IMHO. Though the Corona Silent/Super that @thelastONE mentions is GREAT in term of ergonomics and light touch and speed, IMHO! I have a Super and LOVE it.

Since you're just starting out it seems(?), I'd especially recommend looking for a Hermes Media 3 instead. I've mentioned this gem in other posts because it's essentially 95% of a Hermes 3000 at a fraction of the price. Same keyboard layout, typing action, build quality, and that signature buttery-smooth feel that makes Hermes famous.

Mainly cosmetic changes, frankly - simpler exterior styling, slightly different badge/nameplate design, and fewer color options. The 'Media 3' name was a marketing refresh AFAIK to appeal to a broader consumer base, but the guts are nearly identical. A Hermes 3000 in excellent working order will cost you significantly more than where you probably want to spend right now in your typewriter journey. But if money's no object, absolutely go for the 3000! Otherwise, the Media 3 gives you that premium Hermes experience without the premium price tag.

You'll thank yourself later for holding out for something with better ergonomics than that Royal! I have one in great working order and condition, but I plan on selling. Here are my three that I mention:

Ezra

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Wow, thanks for the long and very helpful reply, i will definitely think about the Hermes Media 3 because from what you've said about it i think it's going to be a perfect fit for me and what i'm looking for. Yours though looks very well cared for

 

[phdezra]

Wow, thanks for the long and very helpful reply, i will definitely think about the Hermes Media 3 because from what you've said about it i think it's going to be a perfect fit for me and what i'm looking for. Yours though looks very well cared for

Hi @PolarSystem …. the Facebook Marketplace treasure hunt! That's where I scored my Media 3 - total dumb luck scrolling through listings at 2am (don't judge my late-night typewriter browsing habits ).

Facebook Marketplace is like 80-90% regular folks cleaning out their attics, not dealers, so the prices can be absolutely chef's kiss But yeah, it's definitely a bit of a crapshoot since you're buying "as is" from someone who probably hasn't touched the thing since 1987 and describes it as "works fine I think?"

Also worth scanning eBay, Etsy, and definitely check out Smith-Coronas from the 1960s onward while you're hunting! There are TONS of them floating around at really reasonable prices. From my admittedly limited collecting experience, those Smith-Coronas were built like absolute tanks - many are still in surprisingly good shape both cosmetically and functionally (which matters way more to me than looking pretty on a shelf, but YMMV!).
The hunt is half the fun anyway! Happy typewriter stalking!

Ezra

PS Thanks for the kind words about mine looking well-cared-for. I may be slightly obsessive about keeping my machines happy