Olympia SM9 Vintage Manual Typewriter with Case

Olympia SM9 Vintage Manual Typewriter with Case

from $897.00

Order this typewriter today, and we will send out a beautiful, working specimen of this model in about 2 weeks.

Select AfterPay at checkout to pay in 4 interest free payments.

It won't be this exact machine, and there may be slight variations. But it will be a beautifully restored machine in similar or better condition, with our working guarantee.

“The Olympia SM9, introduced in 1964, marked a significant evolution in Olympia's line of medium-sized portable typewriters-SM stands for Schreibmaschine Mittelgroß, meaning "medium-sized typewriter" in German. 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 more ergonomic basket (segment) shift, reducing typing fatigue and making long writing sessions much easier.

While the SM8 and SM9 were mechanically similar, the SM9 distinguished itself with features like a touch control lever and more advanced tabulation controls, catering to professional and demanding typists. Over the years, the SM9 underwent several cosmetic and functional updates, including changes in color schemes and logos, and is widely regarded as one of the finest portable typewriters ever made, celebrated for its reliability, precision, and smooth typing action.”

The German machines have a precision you can feel, all the way back to the earlier 1950’s SM3/4

Note that the SM was complemented by the SF and the SG. Most major brands had a small, middle, and large size of typewriter available.

“SG stands for Schreibmaschine Groß, or "large typewriter," and designates Olympia’s standard, office-sized desktop models like the SG1 and SG3, which are heavier, full-featured machines designed for intensive professional use. SF stands for Schreibmaschine Flach, translating to "flat typewriter," and is used for Olympia’s ultraportable, compact models such as the SF and Splendid series, which are optimized for travel and light weight, sacrificing some features for maximum portability.”

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.

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 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, Double Spacing.
Touch Control.
Auto Ribbon Reversal
Two-Tone Ribbon Selector
Original hardshell plywood-lined case.

Aesthetics:

All metal body. A gray durable bottom, and a cream-colored metal top that folds up.

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: