What is your Retro type?
Portable
From First World War Corona 3 foldaway antiques through to post digital-revolution plastics. We currently stock upward of 60 machines in various states of repair. They are assessed for serviceability then thoroughly cleaned and fettled, bringing them back for a second life to be sold via our Etsy shop.
Desktop
These are substantial machines, normally purchased for office/business use. Our oldest, an Empire No.1 dates back to 1892! The most recent is the sophisticated 1970s Hermes Ambassador (almost a word-processor in its mechanical form). There is a market for 'Key-chopping' but our policy is where possible to restore to working condition, if that is not practical then machines are eventually broken for spares and 'creative up-cycling'. These are generally long-term projects, collectors items of which some have been loaned out as props for theatre etc.
Antique or Vintage?
Antique generally implies over 100 years old however in the typewriter world, we're edging our bets as machines made in the 1930s/40s are considered borderline antique, being of similar design to earlier machines. Vintage tends to refer to mid-century onwards. These can be between 35 - 70 years old are often easier to use and maintain.
