Circa 1964 Olympia SM9 Vintage Manual Typewriter with Case

Circa 1964 Olympia SM9 Vintage Manual 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.

Olympia SM9 Typewriter

The Olympia SM9, introduced in 1964, is widely regarded as one of the finest portable typewriters ever made. Celebrated for its reliability, precision, and smooth typing action, the SM9 balances a sleek utilitarian aesthetic with cutting edge features and a high quality build.

Notice that most Olympia portables start with SM. It signifies the mid sized portable. SM stands for Schreibmaschine Mittelgroß, meaning "medium-sized typewriter" in German. SM was complemented by the SF (ultraportable) and the SG (desktop). Most major brands had a small, middle, and large size of typewriter available.

Building on the success of earlier models like the SM7 (launched in 1961), which featured a carriage shift mechanism, the SM9 (and its sibling the SM8) debuted with the easier basket (segment) shift, reducing typing fatigue and making long writing sessions easier (especially for us computer folk).

While the SM8 and SM9 are mechanically similar, the SM9 added essential features like a touch control lever and more tab keys on either side of the keyboard, catering to professional and demanding typists. On the SM8, the tabs require reaching around to the rear.

Over the years, the SM9 underwent several cosmetic and functional updates, including changes in color schemes and logos. We sell the later black keyed version separately here.

The German machines have a precision you can feel, all the way back to the earlier 1950’s SM3 and SM4 (which we sell via one listing here).

What will you create with it?

Every function on this beauty will work as designed, including the two-tone ribbon selector, and the auto ribbon reversal mechanism.

The tabulator and the carriage lock, the most delicate features on the SM9 are rigorously tested and repaired. (The only benefit of the near identical SM8 is the lack of this delicate tab feature)

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

These have a bushing that often breaks in transit, so we check that and replace as needed. Also, the carriage lock needs care, as it often bends or breaks, seizing up the machine.

If you like the utilitarian aesthetic and the precise engineering, this may be the machine for you.

Specs:

Type: Portable
Keyboard Layout: U.S. QWERTY
Typeface: 10 or 12 CPI, usually serif, sometimes (rarely) sans serif
Country of Manufacture: Western Germany
Color: White / Teal
All metal construction except keys.
Shift: Basket / Segment Shift

Features:

Tabs with automatic set and clear keys on either side of space bar.
Single, 1.5, Double Spacing.
Touch Control for typing sensitivity
Auto Ribbon Reversal (with a manual option)
Two-Tone Ribbon Selector
Original hardshell plywood-lined case.
Original metal ribbon spools
Large, comfortable, DURABLE carriage return handle (a huge benefit in typewriter history)

Aesthetics:

All metal body in two tones: A gray durable bottom, and a cream-colored metal top that folds up for ribbon changes or maintenance.

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. (We replace these as needed).

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 in excellent condition with no cracks or warping (we have a host of spares).

Type is aligned and balanced.

Rubber:

The rubber feet are still soft; they grip the writing surface. The platen is soft a pleasure.

We replace this case bushing that often breaks during shipping. It’ll hold for decades.

Case:

Original case is clean and latches well. No mold or strong smells. The handle is strong. Chrome is generally clean. Sometimes the vinyl has some discoloration. A lovely if bulky 2 tone case. Plywood with vinyl lining.

Included:

Fresh 2-tone nylon Ribbon
Original metal ribbon spools as available
Video Tutorial + Digital copy of the manual.
Original Case.
Hand-typed note

Additional Specs:

The Olympia SM9 typewriter with its original hard case weighs approximately 24 pounds

The typewriter alone typically weighs about 16–18 pounds (7–8 kg), depending on the specific year and configuration

The standard case size for the Olympia SM9 is approximately: Case Length 15.5 inches (39 cm) Case Width 19 inches (48 cm) Case Height 7 inches (18 cm)

Every Classic Typewriter portable includes: