Yes, We Finally Bought A Vintage Typewriter

Vintage gold plated typewriter by Kasbah Mod

Vintage gold plated typewriter by Kasbah Mod

A gold plated typewriter worthy of Goldfinger by Kasbah Mod. Their site also features a copper plated typewriter and their artist series of hand painted writing machines.

Rare Bantam typewriter c1930s

Rare Bantam typewriter c1930s

Above is a rare and highly sought after vintage Bantam typewriter from 1930s. The colored glass keys make it extremely collectible and dare I say, pretty. Available at Brooklyn Retro.

Despite their exploding popularity over recent years, I have snubbed the vintage typewriter trend. Especially, those of the manual variety for two reasons: they were back breaking to carry and a nightmare to type on. I know there are folks both young and old who adore clacking away on those cute round keys, but not me. I find the experience frustrating; typewriter keypads jam, the smudgy inky ribbon always gets stuck, and don’t get me started on correction fluid. HOWEVER, I never thought these office relics weren't’ beautiful to look at. Especially anything pre-1950's.

1930's Champion Underwood Typemaster

A 1930's Champion Underwood Typemaster portable sold by myTypewriter.com

There is something about a classic black typewriter like an Underwood #5 that is iconic like telephone booths or poloroid film. These technological wonders were so integral to "modern" life at one point no one could fathom living without them. So at a recent estate sale, after a little arm -twisting from my significant other, we became the owners of two pre-1940s vintage typewriters that are far from their original unimpaired condition.

Having said that, I am now obsessed with old school writing machines and the idea of restoring them. I know reconditioning these contraptions is not a simple feat. To find out why, check out The Retrophile's Files latest post on Worthpoint.com.

Anywho, I thought I would share my favorite sites that sell working typewriters. Because even if you don't type, why own one if the keys don't clack and the carriage does not ding! Where is the fun in that?

Ace Typewriter in Portland, OR

Ace Typewriter in Portland, OR

A Retrophile Files' reader on Worthpoint.com recently brought to my attention, Ace Typewriter in Portland, OR, another great source for vintage typewriters.

myTypewriter.com, is the largest online retailer of classic American and European typewriters. They also sell ribbon, pads, instruction manuals, and vintage keypad jewelry.

Kasbah Mod takes typewriter restoration to the next level by offering gold plated machines.

Brooklyn Retro sells mid-century home decor and highly coveted typwriters

The Vintage Typewriter Shoppe has a large collection of beautifully restored models

See more vintage stuff:

• Vintage Space Age Desk Clock
• Beautifully Restored 35mm Vintage Cameras