The best gift in the world for a writer.

Even if that ‘writer’ is you.

You probably know my story. I was a digital writer, and then found the magic and beauty of typing on a vintage typewriter, which I primarily use for drafting.

After I got into the flow with a typewriter, such words as I never could have dreamed began to flow through my fingers.

So the quality of my writing improved.

Note that I had to brave the strange waters of writing without spellcheck. I'd vaguely remembered it from high school, and yet here I was.

I also had to build up some finger strength, particularly on the pinkies, so that I could keep up speed. Not to mention get in flow with one particular keyboard, so that I knew where the special and punctuation keys were without looking or hesitating. Much time is lost in searching for those little-used keys (which is why I don't recommend going from machine to machine, unless you want to type really slowly).

The speed is of the essence when it comes to tapping into the unconscious wellsprings of brilliance within you. Even the backspace key is on opposite sides from one machine to the other when you're in the Smith Corona world. Well, once you hit a certain year, they're consistent. But I had a few 30's portables, and whenever I went back to the other, I got all confused.

The point is, A typewriter was the greatest gift I've ever given myself as a writer.

Because:

1. It made me more fluent as a writer.

2. I was able to draft courageously and freely.

3. I had this symbol of my writer-hood

4. It inspired me to no end.

5. It's very low maintenance.

6. No batteries required.

7. The ritual has a center.

I also love Christmas, because people order typewriters from us and I get to hear stories of young or old writers opening them and weeping for joy.

***

Imagine the one you love opening the box to see something they’d never dreamed of, never even thought of being a possibility; and yet the machine’s always been running in the back of their mind.

Yeah, the same machine their favorite writer used.

Yes, with a hand-typed quote by their favorite writer, or a missive of love, or inspirational words.

We ALWAYS offer a hand-typed gift note.

A gift without risks.

As well as our infamous Lifetime Tradein Policy our machines include

  • Working Guarantee

  • 1-3 year Warranty

  • video tutorial for your machine

  • copy of the manual

  • fresh ribbon

  • Original or upgraded case for portables.

I recommend many machines for different reasons.

Here are a few of my personal favorites when it comes to a working manual typewriter as a gift.

Circa 1940 Smith Corona Silent / Sterling Typewriter with case (4s) Circa 1940 Smith Corona Silent / Sterling Typewriter with case (4s) Circa 1940 Smith Corona Silent / Sterling Typewriter with case (4s)
Quick View
Circa 1940 Smith Corona Silent / Sterling Typewriter with case (4s)
from $1,197.00

Welcome to one of history’s finest typewriters, lovingly restored for your writing pleasure.

Order now. In about 2 weeks, you’ll get a stunning, authentic, lovingly-restored specimen of this model in the condition selected.

🎥 Includes video tutorial for setup & care

🛡️ Lifetime trade-in policy - 100% credit toward upgrade

The Smith Corona Silent (and nearly-identical Sterling) from the 1940s is the fastest, most fluid vintage typewriter you can own.

These machines bridge classic elegance with modern reliability—earlier than the Super but more refined than the Corona Four. Built during the Golden Age of American manufacturing, they represent typewriter engineering at its peak.

*******

WHY THE SMITH CORONA SILENT/STERLING IS LEGENDARY:

  • Fastest typing action - Lightning-quick, loose action perfect for speed

  • Segment shift design - Earliest basket shift adds to speed and reliability

  • Glass keytops - Beautiful round keys with perfect tactile feedback

  • Bridge model perfection - More reliable than Corona Four, more refined than Super

  • Golden Age American manufacturing - 1940s quality, built to last

  • Practical durability - Vintage styling with modern reliability

*******

Smith Corona Silent/Sterling Classic Typewriter Scorecard

Typing Experience: 10/10 Lightning-fast, loose action—the quickest of vintage machines

Portability: 8/10 True portable with case, substantial but manageable

Durability: 9/10 More reliable than Corona Four, built to last decades

Design: 9/10 Elegant matte black with gorgeous glass keytops

Ease of Use: 9/10 Intuitive, beginner-friendly, segment shift design

Maintenance: 9/10 Reliable, minimal upkeep needed

Collectibility: 8/10 Sought-after 1940s classic, strong value retention

Noise Level: 5/10 Moderate (despite "Silent" name after 80 years)

Overall Score: 8.4/10 - Speed Champion

*******

WHY THE SMITH CORONA SILENT/STERLING IS LEGENDARY

  • Fastest typing action - Lightning-quick, loose action perfect for speed

  • Segment shift design - Earliest basket shift adds to speed and reliability

  • ‘Glass’-style keytops - Beautiful round keys with perfect tactile feedback (they’re not glass, they LOOK like glass).

  • Bridge model perfection - More reliable than Corona Four, more refined than Super

  • Golden Age American manufacturing - 1940s quality, built to last

  • Practical durability - Vintage styling with modern reliability

CHOOSE YOUR CONDITION:

EXCELLENT = Daily Writer

Fully restored and ready for heavy use. Clean, smooth, reliable. All mechanical issues addressed. May show light cosmetic wear from 80+ years of age. Perfect for writers who want a working tool, not a museum piece.

BEST = Investment Grade

Museum-quality restoration. Pristine cosmetic condition. Collector-grade aesthetics with flawless mechanics. These are the machines that appreciate in value. Comes with 3-YEAR WARRANTY (vs 1-year for Excellent).

*******

YOUR SMITH CORONA INCLUDES:

✓ Fully restored Smith Corona Silent or Sterling (1940s model)

✓ New professional ribbon installed (black)

✓ Original case

✓ Detailed care instructions

✓ Video tutorial - Setup, maintenance, and writing tips

✓ Warranty coverage (1-year EXCELLENT / 3-year BEST)

✓ Lifetime trade-in policy (100% credit toward any future purchase)

✓ Custom hand-typed note

PROFESSIONAL RESTORATION BY EXPERT TECHNICIAN:

Every Smith Corona receives a complete mechanical restoration:

  • Full disassembly and deep cleaning

  • All mechanical adjustments and repairs

  • New rubber platen (roller) installed

  • New rubber feet installed

  • Type cleaning and alignment

  • Tension and spacing calibration

  • Final quality inspection by Steven

These aren't just "cleaned up" - they're fully restored to like-new performance.

🎥 INCLUDES SETUP & CARE VIDEO TUTORIAL

Your Smith Corona comes with a detailed video tutorial covering:

  • Unboxing and setup

  • How to load paper correctly

  • Ribbon changing and maintenance

  • Typing technique for vintage machines

  • Care tips to keep it running forever

  • Troubleshooting common questions

New to typewriters? This video makes getting started effortless.

INDUSTRY-LEADING WARRANTY:

EXCELLENT: 1-year comprehensive warranty

BEST: 3-YEAR comprehensive warranty (best in industry)

Covers all mechanical issues. If anything goes wrong, we fix it. Period.

LIFETIME TRADE-IN POLICY:

Changed your mind? Want to upgrade? We offer 100% trade-in credit (what you paid) toward any future typewriter purchase. Forever. Try that with any other vintage seller.

PROFESSIONAL SHIPPING:

📦 Ships in 2-3 weeks after order

📦 Professional packing - double-boxed, fully protected

📦 Shipping: $60-125 depending on location (calculated at checkout)

📦 Continental US only (contact us for international)

We've shipped thousands of typewriters without incident. Your machine arrives safe and ready to write.

Classic Typewriter Benefits

✓ 1,176+ SATISFIED CUSTOMERS

✓ Chapel Hill, NC based - American owned & operated

✓ Expert restoration - not just cleaning

✓ Honest grading - we under-promise, over-deliver

✓ 3-year warranty available (BEST tier)

✓ Lifetime trade-in policy

✓ Real human support - talk to Steven directly

We're not flippers or hobbyists. This is our craft.

Every machine is restored by a professional technician who's done thousands of typewriters.

*******

PRODUCT-SPECIFIC QUESTIONS:

What's the difference between "Silent" and "Sterling"?

They're nearly identical—just different decals. The "Silent" was marketed with extra felt insulation (now minimal after 80 years). We send whichever is in better condition unless you request otherwise.

Is it actually silent?

No—the "Silent" name was 1940s marketing. After 80 years, both models sound similar. Expect a moderate, pleasant mechanical sound (not silent, not loud).

What's "segment shift" mean?

The entire typebar basket shifts instead of the carriage. This was cutting-edge in the 1940s and makes the typing action faster and more reliable than older designs.

Can I request a specific model (Silent vs Sterling)?

Yes! Note your preference at checkout. We'll send your preferred model if available, or the best specimen we have.

How fast is "fastest"?

These have the loosest, quickest action of any vintage portable. If you're a fast typist, you'll love how these keep up.

What character spacing is available?

Most are Pica (10 characters per inch). Elite (12 characters per inch) available by request if in stock.

*******

MADE-TO-ORDER MODEL:

Order your typewriter today, and we will send you a stunning specimen of this model in 2-3 weeks (see current turnaround time).

It won't be the exact specimen(s) pictured—you'll get a stunning, authentic, lovingly-restored typewriter in the condition selected.

*******

WHY STEVEN RECOMMENDS THIS MACHINE:

"I've written hundreds of pages on one of these. While I've had countless typewriters pass through my hands, my go-to model is one of these. The vintage styling with the practicality, durability, and reliability are all I ever need."

"The Smith Corona 4S is the elegant bridge between the more modern machines like the Silent Super and the older Corona Four. It is more reliable than the Corona Four (and less fragile), and slightly higher quality and a different aesthetic than the Silent Super."

"These machines have a very fast, loose action. I find them the quickest of vintage machines. And they are the earliest machine with a segment (or basket) shift, which adds to the speed. That's why I love these for those moments when the machine becomes an extension of the self."

*******

STILL HAVE QUESTIONS?

📋 View our complete FAQ for shipping, warranty, returns, care, and more!

📧 Email: steven@classictypewriter.com

SPECIFICATIONS:

  • Model: Smith Corona Silent / Sterling 4S

  • Manufacturer: Smith Corona (USA)

  • Manufacturing Period: 1940s

  • Dimensions: 13" W × 13" D × 6" H (approx)

  • Weight (with case): ~17 lbs

  • Weight (without case): ~14 lbs

  • Keyboard Layout: QWERTY, US

  • Type: Manual portable, segment shift

  • Features: Tab, 3-position line spacing, ribbon reverse, 2-tone selector

  • Shift Mechanism: Floating shift (basket/segment shift)

  • Type Size: Pica (10 char/inch) or Elite (12 char/inch)

  • Paint Finish: Black wear-resistant crinkle paint

  • Platen Width: Standard letter size

  • Case: Original or quality replacement included

  • Condition: Professionally restored

  • New Parts Installed: Platen, feet, ribbon

  • Warranty (Excellent): 1 year comprehensive

  • Warranty (Best): 3 years comprehensive

  • Lead Time: 2-3 weeks

  • Shipping Region: Continental US

  • Return Policy: 15 day + Lifetime 100% trade-in credit

*******

If you have additional questions, please don't hesitate to ask. (There is also a form at checkout where you can put requests, concerns, usage, etc).

Most sincerely,

Steven Budden Jr.

Classic Typewriter Co.

Chapel Hill, North Carolina

classictypewriter.com

WHAT SETS US APART

Our Promise | Warranty | Working Guarantee | Lifetime Tradein Policy

RESOURCES

FAQ | Condition Explanation

Circa 1970 Smith Corona Galaxie Deluxe with Case Circa 1970 Smith Corona Galaxie Deluxe with Case Circa 1970 Smith Corona Galaxie Deluxe with Case
Quick View
Circa 1970 Smith Corona Galaxie Deluxe with Case
from $847.00

Welcome to one of history’s finest typewriters, lovingly restored for your writing pleasure.

Order now. In about 2 weeks, you’ll get a stunning, authentic, lovingly-restored specimen of this model in the condition selected.

***

Classic 1960's Smith Corona Galaxie Deluxe.

This machine has excellent action an is in exceptional condition.

Typewriters come in all shapes and sizes, and this one certainly embodies the aesthetics of the 60's. That being said, it also incorporates some of the most refined features of typewriter engineering.

The Galaxie Deluxe was Smith Corona's attempt to take all that was good in typewriter design, and include it in one model.

The tab key is actually on top, as it was on the oldest desktops. As are the tab set and release buttons.

The Galaxie Deluxe has excellent typing action. It includes a 'Powerspace' key; hold down the key and the machine will smoothly power across the page until you find your place.

Margins and tabs are easy to set.

The only wear i on the bottom of the machine, which is mostly in excellent condition. This machine came very clean, with only a few eraser shavings inside. One of the pros of getting a machine of this vintage is that they were often very lightly used. Usually they came on the cusp of the electronic age, so people (and companies) often bought them and shifted to electric soon after.

This machine has a cover that slides out, so the ribbon can be changed. After changing a ribbon on a Noiseless from the 40's a few minutes ago, I can say that the ribbon change on these is a breeze by comparison, taking 5 minutes instead of 15.

I've included a 2 tone ribbon wound around a vintage metal ribbon spool (an upgrade!).

The case is in excellent condition, and includes the original key.

This machine comes with a wide carriage, meaning you can type with a letter-sized sheet in landscape mode. This can be a handy feature, though it makes for a slightly wider machine (and case).

The bottom is sealed off, so dust does not really become a problem for this machine.

The rubber rollers, platen, and feet are in excellent condition and the feet are even soft.

Though I tend to prefer the aesthetic of older machines, when you really want to type precisely, use features such as tabs regularly, fill out forms, or write letters, these machines are difficult to beat. Even loading the paper is a breeze compared to machines from a few decades earlier.

If you have questions please don’t hesitate to ask! I want you writing, Screenless!

Most sincerely,

Steven Budden Jr.

Classic Typewriter Co.

Chapel Hill, North Carolina

classictypewriter.com

RESOURCES

FAQ | Condition Explanation

WHAT SETS US APART

Our Promise | Warranty | Working Guarantee | Lifetime Tradein Policy

Circa 1937 Gloss Underwood /  Remington Noiseless Model 7 Portable typewriter -  Working with Case and Guarantee Circa 1937 Gloss Underwood /  Remington Noiseless Model 7 Portable typewriter -  Working with Case and Guarantee Circa 1937 Gloss Underwood /  Remington Noiseless Model 7 Portable typewriter -  Working with Case and Guarantee
Quick View
Circa 1937 Gloss Underwood / Remington Noiseless Model 7 Portable typewriter - Working with Case and Guarantee
from $1,197.00

Welcome to one of history’s finest typewriters, lovingly restored for your writing pleasure.

Order now. In about 2 weeks, you’ll get a stunning, authentic, lovingly-restored specimen of this model in the condition selected.

***

This is of one of history's quintessential writing machines. Noiseless typewriter started to take shape in 1905 when William Parker Kidder in Boston and Charles William Sponsel in Hartford, Connecticut, began a two-year, eight-patent collaboration to produce a “silent typewriter” – one which would operate “substantially without noise”. In the twenties, the mechanism was adopted by Remington and Underwood to produce a series of typewriters that were arguably one of the more successful in history.

We also sell the Noiseless Portable, The Noiseless Model 1, The Noiseless Deluxe, and the 40’s The Noiseless 77.

We restore and replace the rubber on these, including front and rear rollers, platen, feet, and often the upper and lower key stops, depending on condition and availability. This makes for a pretty quiet writing machine, which does vary by specimen.

A new cotton (upgraded) black and red ribbon is installed, usually on original inner spools.

This one comes in the sought-after black lacquer, with paper support and gold decals.

The Noiseless has a unique mechanism, which catches the type bar before it smacks the platen. This, coupled with rubber bumpers at the top and bottom of the stroke, and insulation, reduce the sound. A typewriter pad can further reduce the sound, removing the echo of the writing surface.

The gloss black lacquer shines. There may be very minor blemishes, depending on condition chosen at checkout. These will be VERY minor.

This model hails from around 1936, a perfect year. Before that, they had a smaller carriage return lever, and after that, the quality of some components declined gradually into the 40's.

The carriage knobs and hardware are in excellent condition. There is no rust visible anywhere. The chrome gleams!

This machine has been lovingly restored for your writing pleasure!

The cases are generally above average to nearly perfect. We sometimes have to re-wrap the handle, the old leather of which falls off.

The print is clear and crisp: 12 character per inch. Sometimes 10 character per inch.

Sometimes these machines print a little faintly, due to the Noiseless mechanism. The trick is to use 2 sheets of paper, or thicker paper, or a cotton ribbon.

  • All-metal construction with glossy black lacquer finish

  • Rounded panel above the keyboard, reflecting Art Deco styling

  • Weighs less than 16 pounds, making it a true portable for its era

  • Full-size paper table and long horizontal carriage return lever (Model 7)

The 1936 Remington Noiseless Model 7 typewriter, when in its original carrying case, weighs approximately 19 pounds, 3 ounces. The typical case dimensions are about 14 inches long, 13 inches wide, and 7 inches high (approximately 30 cm x 33 cm x 18 cm). This size and weight made it a substantial but still portable machine for its era. (Case height varies depending on year and specific model).

All of the features work as designed, including:

Tabulator (with a few key tabs included... these are often lost).

  • 2-tone Ribbon Selector

  • Three line spacing settings with indicator

  • Carriage Lock

  • Ribbon auto and manual reversal

  • Right and Left Margin

  • Tabulator features

  • Card holder clips

Please let me know if you have additional questions.

Upon shipping I’ll send a digital copy of the manual as well as a video tutorial.

Most sincerely,

Steven Budden Jr.

Classic Typewriter Co.

Chapel Hill, North Carolina

classictypewriter.com

RESOURCES

FAQ | Condition Explanation

WHAT SETS US APART

Our Promise | Warranty | Working Guarantee | Lifetime Tradein Policy

PS. More.. in case you care…

More History of the Noiseless Typewriter

The Noiseless typewriter began to take shape in 1905 when Wellington Parker Kidder in Boston and Charles William Sponsel in Hartford, Connecticut, began a two-year, eight-patent collaboration to produce a "silent typewriter"—one which would operate "substantially without noise."

Kidder was already a legend in the typewriter world, having invented the Franklin (1891) and the influential Wellington, whose design was copied by manufacturers worldwide. Engineer George Gould Going was another key collaborator whose name appears on several original patents.

The Noiseless Typewriter Company was incorporated in January 1909, with a 168,000-square-foot factory in Middletown, Connecticut. Production began slowly, and the first commercial model—the Noiseless Model 4—went into full production in 1917. The Noiseless Portable followed in 1921, marketed as "Your Junior Partner." By 1922, demand forced the company to expand its workforce from 300 to 500 employees.

Success attracted attention. In March 1924, Remington merged with Noiseless to form Remington-Noiseless, a subsidiary of the Remington Typewriter Company. Kidder passed away just six months later. George Gould Going continued at Remington, receiving accolades for his contributions to noiseless typewriter development.

Remington also produced Noiseless typewriters under license for Underwood beginning in 1929—the machines were virtually identical except for the labeling. Noiseless portables sold well through the 1930s and 1940s, and noiseless standards continued to be manufactured until the 1960s.

Smith Corona Super Sterling (60's) Vintage Manual Typewriter with Case- Working with Guarantee and Lifetime Trade In Policy Smith Corona Super Sterling (60's) Vintage Manual Typewriter with Case- Working with Guarantee and Lifetime Trade In Policy Smith Corona Super Sterling (60's) Vintage Manual Typewriter with Case- Working with Guarantee and Lifetime Trade In Policy Smith Corona Super Sterling (60's) Vintage Manual Typewriter with Case- Working with Guarantee and Lifetime Trade In Policy Smith Corona Super Sterling (60's) Vintage Manual Typewriter with Case- Working with Guarantee and Lifetime Trade In Policy Smith Corona Super Sterling (60's) Vintage Manual Typewriter with Case- Working with Guarantee and Lifetime Trade In Policy Smith Corona Super Sterling (60's) Vintage Manual Typewriter with Case- Working with Guarantee and Lifetime Trade In Policy Smith Corona Super Sterling (60's) Vintage Manual Typewriter with Case- Working with Guarantee and Lifetime Trade In Policy Smith Corona Super Sterling (60's) Vintage Manual Typewriter with Case- Working with Guarantee and Lifetime Trade In Policy Smith Corona Super Sterling (60's) Vintage Manual Typewriter with Case- Working with Guarantee and Lifetime Trade In Policy Smith Corona Super Sterling (60's) Vintage Manual Typewriter with Case- Working with Guarantee and Lifetime Trade In Policy
Quick View
Smith Corona Super Sterling (60's) Vintage Manual Typewriter with Case- Working with Guarantee and Lifetime Trade In Policy
from $997.00

Order your typewriter today, and we will send you a stunning specimen of this model in a couple of weeks. (see current turnaround time).

It won’t be the exact specimen(s) pictured; you’ll get a stunning, authentic, lovingly-restored typewriter in the condition selected.

***


These come in Blue, gray, tan, or green.

This model boasts a spring-loaded slide open ribbon cover, which was cutting edge technology in the 60's.

The Smith Corona innards went nearly unchanged for 30 years.

This model has an enclosed bottom, which protects the delicate mechanisms from dust.

The platen is still softer than most machines of the era.

The feet grip well and are in great condition.

It comes with a well metal designed hardshell case, in use-able condition.

If you're looking for a machine to write on, this is it!

This model includes:

  • Left and right margins

  • End of line bell

  • Single, 1.5, and Double Line Spacing

  • Elite or Pica Serif Typeface

  • Automatic Ribbon Reversal

  • Easy Load Ribbon

  • Retractable Paper Support

***

Please let me know if I can answer any questions!

Every Classic Typewriter portable includes:

  • The original case or Upgrade Flight Case

  • A digital video tutorial with digital manual

  • Paperwork and paper manual if available

  • Working Guarantee

  • 1-3 Year Warranty

  • Lifetime Trade In Policy

  • Custom hand-typed note

Please let me know if you have additional questions.

Most sincerely,

Steven Budden Jr.

Classic Typewriter Co.

Chapel Hill, North Carolina

classictypewriter.com

WHAT SETS US APART

Our Promise | Warranty | Working Guarantee | Lifetime Tradein Policy

RESOURCES

FAQ | Condition Explanation

Incomparable Hermes 3000 Vintage Manual Typewriter with Case Incomparable Hermes 3000 Vintage Manual Typewriter with Case Incomparable Hermes 3000 Vintage Manual Typewriter with Case
Quick View
Incomparable Hermes 3000 Vintage Manual Typewriter with Case
from $1,897.00

Welcome to one of history’s finest typewriters, lovingly restored for your writing pleasure.

Each machine is restored to order.* Allow 2 weeks for your personal restoration. You’ll get a stunning, authentic, lovingly-restored specimen of this model in the condition selected.

*Only 8 Hermes 3000s leave our shop each month.

Hermes 3000 Typewriter History

Before Paillard designed the Hermes 3000, they spent years dissecting many of history's iconic typewriters in order to create the perfect machine.

In 1958 that machine was unleashed upon the world.

The result was a feature-rich machine that was durable, comfortable, and beautiful. It quickly became a legend in the literary world. Jack Kerouac reportedly wrote his final novel on the Hermes 3000. Sylvia Plath wrote her only novel, the Bell Jar, on one. Adrienne Rich wrote some of her iconic poetry on the Hermes.

The Hermes 3000 is unrivaled for its

  • Smooth manual type action

  • Buttery, effortless key stroke that rivals any other manual

  • Swiss precision engineering - Made in Switzerland during the Golden Age (1950s-1960s)

  • Iconic curved design

  • Ultra-reliable mechanics - precision mechanics, builtl to last

  • Perfect balance - Substantial build quality in a portable form

  • Responsive touch - Light, fast action ideal for long writing sessions

  • Cutting-edge features, like auto-margins, tab set and clear keys and auto margins with visible margin indicators

  • A ‘gold setting’ that lets you get an extra ribbon worth of typing in the same ribbon

Some other writers of interest that have been notes as using a Hermes 3000:

Stephen Dixon, Stephen Fry, Sam Shepard , John Steinbeck, Eugene Lonesco, Matt Groening.

YOUR HERMES 3000 WILL INCLUDE:

  •  Fully restored Hermes 3000 typewriter (iconic rounded 1950s model shown)

  •  New professional ribbon installed (black)

  •  Original case in excellent condition

  •  Detailed care instructions

  •  Video tutorial - Setup, maintenance, and typing tips

  • Warranty coverage (1-year EXCELLENT / 3-year BEST)

  • Lifetime trade-in policy (100% credit toward any future purchase)

PROFESSIONAL RESTORATION BY EXPERT TECH:

Every Hermes 3000 receives a complete mechanical restoration:

  • Full disassembly and deep cleaning

  • Initial Test; mechanical adjustments and repairs

  • New rubber platen installed

  • New rubber feet installed

  • Type cleaning and alignment

  • Tension and spacing calibration

  • Final quality inspection by Steven

These aren't just "cleaned up" - they're fully restored to like-new performance. ---

INCLUDES SETUP & CARE VIDEO TUTORIAL

New to typewriters? This video makes getting started effortless.

WARRANTY: Comes with our 1-3 year comprehensive warranty, depending on condition selected.

LIFETIME TRADE-IN POLICY: Changed your mind? Want to upgrade? We offer 100% trade-in credit (what you paid) toward any future typewriter purchase. Forever. Try that with any other vintage seller. ---

PROFESSIONAL SHIPPING: Professional eco-friendly packing - double-walled, load tested box, fully protected (some places use pounds of plastic and foam to pack one typewriter. We don’t. I’m trying to IMPROVE world conditions through recycling machines, not make things WORSE.)

We've shipped thousands of typewriters without incident. Your machine will arrives safe and ready to write.

SPECS:

  • Model: Hermes 3000 Portable

  • Manufacturer: Paillard (Switzerland)

  • Manufacturing Period: 1950s-1960s

  • Dimensions: 13" W × 13" D × 6" H

  • Weight (with case): 17 lbs

  • Weight (without case): 14 lbs

  • Keyboard Layout: QWERTY, US Mechanism (sometimes you’ll get some European accent keys as special characters) [Machine of the world!]

  • Type: Manual portable typewriter

  • Platen Width: 10 inches (standard letter)

  • Case: Original

  • Condition: Professionally restored

  • New Parts Installed: Platen, feet, ribbon

  • Typeface: Elite or Pica (request in form at checkout)

***

Choose your Condition at checkout:

EXCELLENT = Daily Writer Fully restored and ready for heavy daily use. Clean, smooth, reliable. All mechanical issues addressed. May show light cosmetic wear from 60+ years of age. Perfect for writers who want a stunning working tool that will write and write.

1 YEAR WARRANTY.

BEST = Pristine cosmetic condition. Collector-grade aesthetics with flawless mechanics. For those that require or demand the best.

3 YEAR WARRANTY

***

If you have additional questions, please don’t hesitate to ask. (There is also a form at checkout where you can put requests, concerns, usage, etc).

📧 Email: steven@classictypewriter.com

Most sincerely,

Steven Budden Jr.

Classic Typewriter Co.

Chapel Hill, North Carolina

classictypewriter.com

WHAT SETS US APART

Our Promise | Warranty | Working Guarantee | Lifetime Tradein Policy

RESOURCES

FAQ | Condition Explanation

REVIEWS

Karl S. Dec 9, 2024 — "Typewriter exceeded my expectations. The Hermes 3000 has become my new workhorse typewriter. A gorgeous piece of European ingenuity."

Gaye M. Sep 2, 2025 — "It's PERFECT!! Steven was with me every time I got in touch with any question."

Hope Bennett Jan 22, 2025 — "The typewriter will have a permanent position of honor in my sunroom."

Tracy N. Nov 4, 2024 — "A beautiful machine and works like a charm. I'm looking forward to many days of happy writing. Great service."

Douglas C. Jan 4, 2026 — "Beautiful typewriter, outstanding service. Highly recommend!"

Circa 1970 Olympia SM9 Vintage Typewriter with Case Circa 1970 Olympia SM9 Vintage Typewriter with Case Circa 1970 Olympia SM9 Vintage Typewriter with Case
Sale
Quick View
Circa 1970 Olympia SM9 Vintage Typewriter with Case
from $997.00

Welcome to one of history’s finest typewriters, lovingly restored for your writing pleasure.

Order now. In about 2 weeks, you’ll get a stunning, authentic, lovingly-restored specimen of this model in the condition selected.

***

Most of them have a serif (standard times type) font...

Beautiful Olympia SM9, the pinnacle of typewriter technology. This machine rivals any other in history. More reliable than the earlier Olympias, more robust than the Hermes 3000, more precise than the Smith Coronas.

What will you create with it?

All functions work as designed, including the two-tone ribbon selector, and the auto ribbon reversal mechanism. The tabulator.

The bell rings crisp and clear. The line-spacing works.

Specs:

Type: Portable

Keyboard Layout: U.S. QWERTY

Typeface: 10 or 12 CPI, usually serif, sometimes sans serif

Country of Manufacture: Western Germany

Color: White / Teal

Shift: Basket / Segment Shift

Overall rating (1 (dismal) to 10 (perfect)): 9.5

Features:

  • Tabs.

  • Single, Double Spacing.

  • Touch Control.

  • Auto Ribbon Reversal

  • Two-Tone Ribbon Selector

  • Original hardshell plywood lined case.

Aesthetics:

Very slight marks on gray base on one side, almost imperceptible. Otherwise quite pristine. Case in rough but functional condition.

The chrome still shines. Keys are clean. Paint is in excellent condition. The plastic components are strong and solid, and not warped or discolored. Plexi card guides are strong and clear.

Structure:

Structurally, this machine is quite excellent. No dents or warping. Very robust frame. 'Bulletproof' is a good word for machines of this vintage.

Mechanics:

The innards are quite pristine. Most pieces look nearly factory fresh. These machines were designed to last a lifetime! Coated metal insides. Carriage return is smooth and fast; spring is strong. Carriage return lever is solid. Platen knobs are well-adjusted. Type is aligned and balanced.

Rubber:

The rubber feet are still soft; they grip the writing surface. The platen is medium-hard and a pleasure. It still grips the paper and has some bounce. The rollers are doing well.

Case:

Original case is clean and latches well. No mold or strong smells. The handle is strong. There are some scuffs to the vinyl. Some surface rust on the hardware, which works well.

Included:

  • Fresh Ribbon

  • Video Tutorial

  • Digital copy of the manual.

  • Original Case.

  • Typewritten Sample.

See details below on our lifetime trade-in policy. (You can always upgrade this, and apply whatever you paid toward a higher-priced machine).

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Please let me know if you have additional questions.

Most sincerely,

Steven Budden Jr.

Classic Typewriter Co.

Chapel Hill, North Carolina

classictypewriter.com

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