Learn some tips on how you can start collecting vintage collectible typewriters.
People collect all types of things such as dolls, coins, stamps, baseball cards, thimbles, et cetera. And, yes, some people even collect typewriters.
If you're considering starting your own typewriter collection, you may be wondering where to start. Here are some helpful tips to get you started on your new hobby:
1. What Typewriters Are You Going to Collect?
You can collect specific brands of typewriters such as Royal, Remington, Underwood, Smith Corona, or Oliver. Or, you may only want to collect antique machines. You can even collect all types and models, older and newer, if you want your collection to represent what has been available to consumers over the years.
2. Where Can You Find Typewriters for Your Collection?
The best places to look are at auctions, garage sales, estate sales, second hand stores, flea markets, and online at auction sites such as eBay (TM). You can also watch the classified ads in your local newspaper to see if anyone lists a typewriter for sale.
With the popularity of the computer, more and more people are getting rid of their old typewriters that are just collecting dust in their basements and attics. So, you can find them most anywhere. And, since there are probably few typewriter collectors in the world, you can generally buy a good used machine for a few dollars.
3. What Are Typewriters Typically Worth?
A rare, antique machine can be worth several hundred, or even a thousand dollars, as long as it's in excellent working condition. Take for example the rare Sholes and Glidden brand typewriter. It came out in the late eighteen seventies. It was the first typewriter to be manufactured. It's worth quite a bit as long as you have a prospective buyer who wants it and is willing to pay a hefty price to get it.
Remember the golden rule about antiques: "Just because it's old, doesn't mean it's worth a lot of money."
For example, you can generally find old Underwood and Royal typewriters. Afterall, their respective companies manufactured oodles and oodles of them over the years! So, because there are so many of them still in existence, they are not worth much in dollar values.
4. Should You Buy Only Working Typewriters?
People who collect these machines can generally be divided into two groups: the "Fixer-Uppers" and the "I-Haven't-Got-a-Clue-What's-What" group. If you have the time and the talent to repair a broken typewriter, then go for it! If not, you might want to stick to collecting only machines that are in good working condition.
Of course, you can also check your local yellow pages to see if there's anyone who works on old typewriters for a reasonable fee. Keep in mind that the cost to repair it might exceed its value, though.
5. Where Can You Find Parts and Supplies for Your Typewriters?
If the machine isn't too old, you can check with local typewriter repair shops to find parts and supplies. Or, you can visit online auction sites. You can also perform a search on the Internet and maybe you'll hit the jackpot by finding a part you happen to need.
6. Where Should You Store Your Typewriter Collection?
If the machines came with cases, you should keep them in there at all times. Choose a location in your home that is cool and dry and away from direct sunlight. Don't jostle the machines around or you can break parts, especially if the machines are old. On a sturdy shelf is an excellent place to store them.
7. Where Can You Can More Information About Collecting Typewriters?
There have been several good books written on the subject. Check your local library or bookstores to see what books are available on the subject. You can also, of course, perform a search on the Internet or check with an online bookstore such as Amazon.com.
