Typewriter Wiki - User contributions [en]

Shanghai Weilv Mechanism Company

2025-05-23T15:35:09Z

Chrisaldrich: /* Reviews */ formatting

[[Category:Typewriter Brands]]

The '''Shanghai Weilv Mechanism Company''', based in China, is one of the few companies still manufacturing manual typewriters in the millennium.

Compared to older vintage and antique typewriters, Shanghai Weilv Mechanism Company is mass producing poorly made manual typewriters with poor quality control. They're often sold in the US$200-300 range, but can be regularly found on thrift sites like ShopGoodwill.com for US$5-20, often still new in their boxes.

They sell primarily to the crafting market in the United States through big-box retailers like Michael's, Target, and Home Depot as well as online vendors like Amazon under a number of brand names including:

* The Rover
* The Royal Epoch
* We R Memory Keepers (Michaels, Home Depot)
* Royal Classic
* Maplefield (Target, Walmart, Michaels)
* The Oliver Typewriter Company

[[Will Davis]] has [http://davistypewriters.blogspot.com/2013/11/2013-new-model-typewriter.html suggested their design is based on] the [[Olympia Carina]] manufactured by Nakajima in Japan.

== Reviews ==
* [https://writingball.blogspot.com/2017/03/typewriter-review-royal-epoch.html Typewriter review: Royal Epoch] by [[Richard Polt]]
* [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LeS5ovRxrsY The 2023 Rover Typewriter: Worst Machine Ever?] by [[Lucas Dul]] at [[Typewriter Chicago]]
* [https://www.reddit.com/r/typewriters/comments/1ktm3fk/typewriter_regret/ Typewriter Regret]

Shanghai Weilv Mechanism Company

2025-05-23T15:34:44Z

Chrisaldrich: /* Reviews */ reddit post about a Royal Classic

[[Category:Typewriter Brands]]

The '''Shanghai Weilv Mechanism Company''', based in China, is one of the few companies still manufacturing manual typewriters in the millennium.

Compared to older vintage and antique typewriters, Shanghai Weilv Mechanism Company is mass producing poorly made manual typewriters with poor quality control. They're often sold in the US$200-300 range, but can be regularly found on thrift sites like ShopGoodwill.com for US$5-20, often still new in their boxes.

They sell primarily to the crafting market in the United States through big-box retailers like Michael's, Target, and Home Depot as well as online vendors like Amazon under a number of brand names including:

* The Rover
* The Royal Epoch
* We R Memory Keepers (Michaels, Home Depot)
* Royal Classic
* Maplefield (Target, Walmart, Michaels)
* The Oliver Typewriter Company

[[Will Davis]] has [http://davistypewriters.blogspot.com/2013/11/2013-new-model-typewriter.html suggested their design is based on] the [[Olympia Carina]] manufactured by Nakajima in Japan.

== Reviews ==
* [https://writingball.blogspot.com/2017/03/typewriter-review-royal-epoch.html Typewriter review: Royal Epoch] by [[Richard Polt]]
* [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LeS5ovRxrsY The 2023 Rover Typewriter: Worst Machine Ever?] by [[Lucas Dul]] at [[Typewriter Chicago]]
* [Typewriter Regret](https://www.reddit.com/r/typewriters/comments/1ktm3fk/typewriter_regret/)

Shanghai Weilv Mechanism Company

2025-05-20T23:45:03Z

Chrisaldrich: stub page; makes/models, caveats; reviews

Royal KHM

2025-05-20T23:28:53Z

Chrisaldrich: headings

[[Category:Typewriter]]
[[File:Peewee's KHM.jpg|thumb|A KHM Typewriter owned by Z. Thompson]]
__TOC__
== History and Basic Info ==
The Royal KHM was manufactured by the Royal Typewriter co from 1935-1938. This machine is the successor to the [[Royal 10]] and the predecessor to the [[Royal KMM]]. It was also the first Royal designed with a key-set tabulator. These machines strongly resemble the Royal 10, but with covered spools and sides. This design also moved the touch control from the under side of the typewriter to the right side.

== Common Issues ==
Royal KHMs are relatively solid machines. These will most likely be found with broken drawbands and covered in grime.

== Manual ==
*[https://site.xavier.edu/polt/typewriters/RoyalKHM.pdf User's Manual]

Royal

2025-05-20T23:27:42Z

Chrisaldrich: Shanghai Weilv Mechanism Company

[[Category:Typewriter Brands]]

=='''History'''==
===Beginnings===
Royal was founded in New York by 2 dudes in a hot tub, but they were 6 feet apart so they weren't gay.

===Portables===
Royal launched their first portable typewriters in 1925, to compete with Underwood's 4-bank Portable, Remington's Portable no.2, and Corona's Portable 3. The Royal company

===60's & Merger with McBee===
e

===Acquisition by Litton===

===Today===
As of 2004, Royal, now Royal Consumer Information Products, became again a private U.S.- based company, now manufacturing printers and other business equipment. Their website is https://www.royal.com/. Typewriters under the Royal name still exist, although these are badly-manufactured [[Olympia Carina II]] clones built in China by the [[Shanghai Weilv Mechanism Company]].

==Standards==
Here you may find a list of Royal typewriters. As the manufacturer was extremely prolific, not all models may be covered or listed here.
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Name !! Date Range !! Description & Rarity !! Placeholder
|-
| [[Royal 1-4]] || 1906-1909 || Known as Royal "Flatbeds", these are the first iterations of Royal machines. They are somewhat rare, but not extremely rare. Carriage widths vary by model. The 2-4 are rather hard to find. || -
|-
| [[Royal 5-9]] || 1910-1912 || These are the second generation of Royal flatbeds. Essentially the same as the 1-4, but with fancier decals and tabulators that came equipped standard. Same as the 1-4, the 5 isn't hard to find but the 6-9 are. || -
|-
| [[Royal 10]] || 1913-1934 || The Royal 10 was the major redesign of the Royal flatbed typewriter. These machines were made throughout the 1910's-1930's, and went through several design changes. || -
|-
| [[Royal H & KH]] || 1934 || Made for one year only, the Royal H and KH typewriters were essentially late model Royal 10's with redesigned shells. As they were made for one year only, they are harder to find. || -
|-
| [[Royal KHM]] || 1935-1938 || The Royal KHM series of typewriters is the direct successor to the Royal H and KH. || -
|-
| [[Royal KMM]] || 1939-1948 || The Royal KMM is one of the most common Royal standards available today. They were made in large numbers and widely used by the US Government in WWII. || -
|-
| [[Royal KMG]] || 1949-1952 || These are basically KMMs but with the tombstone keys of a Dreyfuss QDL || -
|-
| [[Royal HH]] || 1952-1957 || Shell redesign of the Royal standard. These machines are also equipped with a palm tabulator. || -
|-
| [[Royal FP]] || 1957-1961 || 1960's shell of the Royal standard. Unlike earlier Royal standards, these came in different colors. || -
|-
| [[Royal Empress]] || 1962-1965 || The curvy late 60's redesgned shell of the Royal standard. These also come in many different colors. || -
|-
| [[Royal 440 & 470]] || 1966-1969, 1970-1975 || The beginning of the end (and the end) of Royal standards. These machines are not very common, but that does not mean they are worth a lot. || -
|}

==Portables==
Here you may find a list of Royal portable typewriters. As the manufacturer was extremely prolific, not all models may be covered or listed here.
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Name !! Date Range !! Description & Rarity !! Placeholder
|-
| Model P || 1925-1933 || The Royal P was Royal's answer to the [Underwood Standard 4-Bank Keyboard] and the [Remington Portable no. 2]. The P is a relatively small portable that came in 2 shell types, one with exposed spools and one with closed gull wings. Despite their visual similarities, a number of changes were made between the two versions. The P often comes in a desirable typeface called [Vogue] || Example
|-
| Model O || 1932-1938 || Example || Example
|-
| Depression Portables || 1935-1938 || Royal made a series of depression portables, cheap machines with fewer functionalities and sold at lower prices. Of note are the Junior and Signet I. || Example
|-
| Royal Quiet, Speed King, O derivatives || Example || Example || Example
|-
| [[Royal Quiet De Luxe]] || Example || Example || Example
|-
| Royal QDL Derivatives || Example || Cheaper variants of the QDL existed to cater to students and other market.s || Example
|-
| Royal Royalite || Example || Example || Example
|-
| Royal Futura || 1963 - 196X || Example || Example
|-
| Royal Safari || Example || Example || Example
|-
| Royal Diana || Example || Example || Example
|-
| Royal Silver-Seiko Ultraportables || Example || Example || Example
|-
| Royal Fleetwood || Example || Example || Example
|-
| Royal Modern Portables || 201X-present || This machine isn't recommended. || Example
|}

WD-40

2025-05-20T23:17:56Z

Chrisaldrich: expanded definition; clarified issues with use; see also section

'''WD-40''' is a multi-purpose solution used for rust and corrosion protection, moisture displacement as a penetrating oil, and for cleaning. It is manufactured by the WD-40 Company in the United States. The "WD" in the name stands for Water Displacement, which helps to prevent rust in parts it's applied to.

== Cleaning ==
WD-40 is often found in old typewriters, particularly American makes, due to its ubiquitous nature in the United States, where it is often used for lubrication. Used in typewriters, it may cause [[typebars]] to gum up and become immovable. It is often the cause of the ubiquitous typewriter symptom "[sticky keys]]".

WD-40 is often frowned upon in typewriter repair because of its paraffin-wax content. When left on a typewriter for a prolonged period of time, particularly in tight spaces like the [[segment]], WD-40 will attract dirt, dust, and grime before becoming a sticky solid.

== Use ==
WD-40 can be used to dissolve and remove old WD-40 before flushing with another solvent like [[mineral spirits]] or [[lacquer thinner]]. WD-40 is often used to clean crinkle paint and metal parts when applied with a rag or gentle brush.

== See Also ==
* [[typewriter cleaning]]
* [[typewriter maintenance]]

User:Chrisaldrich

2025-05-20T16:45:42Z

Chrisaldrich: basic details; links to a variety of articles

Chris Aldrich is an avid typewriter collector and repair mechanic. His day jobs have seen work variously as a biomedical engineer as well as a talent manager in Hollywood.

He maintains a variety of typewriter resources and articles relating to repair, maintenance, and collecting at https://boffosocko.com/research/typewriter-collection/

== Typewriter Articles ==

Articles I’ve written about particular typewriter-related topics:

=== Cleaning, Repair, & Restoration ===

* [https://boffosocko.com/2024/08/09/on-colloquial-advice-for-degreasing-cleaning-and-oiling-manual-typewriters/ On colloquial advice for degreasing, cleaning, and oiling manual typewriters]
* [https://boffosocko.com/2024/10/24/learning-typewriter-maintenance-and-repair/ Learning Typewriter Maintenance and Repair]
* [https://boffosocko.com/2024/08/11/adding-to-my-typewriter-toolset/ Adding to My Typewriter Toolset]
* [https://boffosocko.com/2024/12/01/typewriter-tools-upgrade/ Typewriter Tools Upgrade]: A new bag and some specialty typewriter tools
* [https://boffosocko.com/2024/07/14/aggregated-resources-and-playlist-for-a-crash-course-on-the-olympia-sm3-portable-typewriter/ Aggregated Resources and Playlist for a Crash Course on the Olympia SM3 Portable Typewriter]
* [https://boffosocko.com/2024/08/17/repairing-the-drawband-on-an-orga-privat-5-typewriter/ Repairing the Drawband on an Orga Privat 5 Typewriter]
* [https://boffosocko.com/2024/05/22/1949-smith-corona-clipper-black-wooden-case-refurbishment/ 1949 Smith-Corona Clipper Black Wooden Case Restoration]

=== Typewriter Ribbon ===

* [https://boffosocko.com/2024/05/23/bulk-order-of-typewriter-ribbon-from-baco-ribbon-supply-co/ Bulk Order of Typewriter Ribbon from Baco Ribbon & Supply Co.]
* [https://boffosocko.com/2024/11/08/fine-line-ribbon-for-your-typewriter-ribbon-needs/ Fine Line Ribbon for your Typewriter Ribbon Needs]

=== Typewriter Collecting ===

* [https://boffosocko.com/2025/03/21/standard-typewriters-versus-portable-typewriters-and-ultraportable-typewriters/ Standard Typewriters versus Portable Typewriters and Ultraportable Typewriters]
* [https://boffosocko.com/2024/10/24/photos-of-typewriters-for-the-typewriter-database/ Photos of Typewriters for the Typewriter Database]
* [https://boffosocko.com/2024/08/24/what-typwriter-related-projects-are-you-working-on-this-weekend/ What typwriter-related project(s) are you working on this weekend?]

=== Type-Ins ===

* 2025-05-10 Vroman’s Bookstore Type-in [https://boffosocko.com/2025/03/25/youre-invited-to-a-southern-california-type-in/ [invitation]

=== Typewriter Use, History, and Miscellanea ===

* [https://boffosocko.com/2025/03/29/first-time-typewriter-purchases-with-specific-recommendations-for-writers/ First Time Typewriter Purchases with Specific Recommendations for Writers]
* [https://boffosocko.com/2024/05/25/collective-nouns-for-typewriters-and-typists/ Collective Nouns for Typewriters and Typists]
* [https://boffosocko.com/2024/10/15/mr-typewriter-a-royal-660-electric-typewriter-as-inspiration-for-stanley-kubricks-hal-9000/ Mr. Typewriter, a Royal 660 Electric Typewriter, as inspiration for Stanley Kubrick’s HAL 9000?]
* [https://boffosocko.com/2024/06/25/users-of-the-early-henry-dreyfuss-royal-quiet-de-luxe-portable-typewriters/ Users of the early Henry Dreyfuss Royal Quiet De Luxe Portable Typewriters]
* [https://boffosocko.com/2024/05/06/typewriter-backing-sheets-for-index-cards/ Typewriter Backing Sheets for Index Cards]
* [https://boffosocko.com/2023/12/17/typecasting-with-indieweb-building-blocks/ Typecasting with IndieWeb Building Blocks]
* [https://boffosocko.com/2023/12/21/typecast-orientation/ Typecast orientation]

=== Typewriter Bibliography: Books, Movies, etc. ===

* A. C. Van Sant. _The Van Sant System Of Touch Typewriting For Smith Premier (Book)_, 1902. [http://archive.org/details/TheVanSantSystemOfTouchTypewriting-ForSmithPremier](http://archive.org/details/TheVanSantSystemOfTouchTypewriting-ForSmithPremier).
* Ackerman, Peter. _The Lonely Typewriter_. Illustrated edition. Boston: David R. Godine, Publisher, 2014.
* Adler, Michael. _Antique Typewriters: From Creed to QWERTY_. Schiffer, 1997.
* Adler, Michael H. _The Writing Machine: A History of the Typewriter_. George Allen & Unwin Ltd, 1973.
* Allan, Tony. _Typewriter: The History · The Machines · The Writers_. 1st ed. New York: Shelter Harbor Press, 2015.
* Atkinson, Annelise. _Typewriter SOS: The DIY Guide to Fixing Common Problems with Typewriters_, 2014.
* Auster, Paul, and Sam Messer. _The Story of My Typewriter_. 1st edition. New York: D.A.P./Distributed Art Publishers, Inc., 2002.
* Beeching, Wilfred A. _Century of the Typewriter_. First American Edition. London: St. Martin’s Press, 1974.
* _California Typewriter_. Documentary. Gravitas Pictures, 2016.
* Casillo, Anthony, Bruce Curtis, and Tom Hanks. _Typewriters: Iconic Machines from the Golden Age of Mechanical Writing_. Illustrated edition. San Francisco: Chronicle Books, 2017.
* Flint, Woz. _The Distraction-Free First Draft_. One Idea Press, 2023. [https://www.oneideapress.com/product-page/the-distraction-free-first-draft](https://www.oneideapress.com/product-page/the-distraction-free-first-draft).
* Hanks, Tom. _Uncommon Type: Some Stories_. Knopf, 2017.
* House, Clifford R., and Samuel Skurow. _Typewriting Style Manual with References to Century 21 Typewriting_. Cincinnati, OH: South-Western Publishing Co., 1977. [http://archive.org/details/typing_202007](http://archive.org/details/typing_202007).
* Lyons, Martyn. _The Typewriter Century: A Cultural History of Writing Practices_. Studies in Book and Print Culture. Toronto ; Buffalo ; London: University of Toronto Press, Scholarly Publishing Division, 2021.
* _Maintenance Of Office Machines_. 16 mm. Vol. MN-1513. United States Navy Training Film, 1943. [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ocdxgkxKAKo](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ocdxgkxKAKo).
* Marty (Costa Mesa). _Gregg Typewriting For Colleges (Complete Course)_, 1964. [http://archive.org/details/greggtypewritingforcolleges](http://archive.org/details/greggtypewritingforcolleges).
* Monk, Theodore. “1954 Smith-Corona (SCM) Typewriter Type Styles and Keyboards Catalog.” _– To Type, Shoot Straight, and Speak the Truth…_ (blog), February 3, 2023. [https://munk.org/typecast/2023/02/03/1954-smith-corona-scm-typewriter-type-styles-and-keyboards-catalog/](https://munk.org/typecast/2023/02/03/1954-smith-corona-scm-typewriter-type-styles-and-keyboards-catalog/).
* Pearce, H. G. _Complete Instructions: How to Repair, Rebuild, and Adjust Underwood Typewriters With Handy Reference for Locating Trouble Quickly_. Bridgeport, CT: Typewriter Mechanics Publishing Co., 1920. [https://johnesimmons.com/Typewriter/Articles/Manualpdf/Underwood_Repair_Manual.pdf](https://johnesimmons.com/Typewriter/Articles/Manualpdf/Underwood_Repair_Manual.pdf).
* Polt, Richard. _The Typewriter Revolution: A Typist’s Companion for the 21st Century_. 1st ed. Woodstock, VT: Countryman Press, 2015.
* Robert, Paul, and Peter Weil. _Typewriter: A Celebration of the Ultimate Writing Machine_. 1st ed. New York: Union Square & Co., 2016.
* Smith-Corona, Inc. _Type Styles and Keyboards for Smith-Corona Office Typewriters_. Syracuse, NY: Smith-Corona, Inc., 1954. [https://munk.org/typecast/2023/02/03/1954-smith-corona-scm-typewriter-type-styles-and-keyboards-catalog/](https://munk.org/typecast/2023/02/03/1954-smith-corona-scm-typewriter-type-styles-and-keyboards-catalog/).
* Vangool, Janine. _The Typewriter: A Graphic History of the Beloved Machine_. UPPERCASE publishing inc, 2015.

How to Use Your New (Or Old!) Typewriter

2025-05-20T16:31:07Z

Chrisaldrich: Video section with a variety of useful short films from 1940s

Congrats! You got your first typewriter! Maybe you bought it online, or found it in your attic or garage. If you have no idea how to use one of these, this is a good place to start.

__TOC__

==Preamble: Manuals and Discord Help==
The good Richard Polt has made a large number of user manuals and service manuals available on his site, via the link here: [[https://site.xavier.edu/polt/typewriters/tw-manuals.html]]. It may help to see where specific functions are on your machine, so it is highly recommended to take a look there!
As well, if anything is confusing do feel free to pop over to the Discord server for help.

==How to Load Paper==

The first step to begin typing is to load paper into your machine. First, take your sheet of paper, put it face up on the table, and grab the top of the paper and flip it over itself. (Pull the top to the bottom) This orients the paper so you type where you want it to type. Now take the paper and drop it behind the platen, the large rubber roller in the carriage. After the paper is dropped in, twist the right hand platen knob clockwise to load the paper in. Load the paper so it is about halfway in, and pull the paper release lever. Next bring the top and bottom corners of your paper together and push the paper release back down. Roll your paper to the top of the page by twisting the right platen knob counter-clockwise, and you are set to begin typing! Don't forget to set your margins!

==Margins==

Margins are used to set how wide your writing line is on your paper. Margins are set in two typical ways. The first is manual margins. Manual margins are set on the back of the carriage. Usually, you just push down on the button on the margin, and move it to your desired position. The other style is "Magic Margins", first introduced by Royal with the KMM in 1939. Instead of moving the margins themselves, you use a button or lever to release the margin, and move the carriage to the desired position for that margin. It is best to check your manual for proper operation, this description is only to give you a introduction to the different types.

==Tabulation==

Tabulation (or tabulating) is for moving the carriage quickly to preset stops, from left to right. Each press of the tabulator button (sometimes called TAB) will cause the carriage to "jump" from your current position to the next tab stop. Note this only works from left to right and does not work in reverse. Tabulating is commonly used for indenting paragraphs and lists, and justifying information, often numbers, on spreadsheets. The latter is commonly done with what's known as a decimal tabulator.

Tabs are set in two ways. The first, commonly found on earlier machines, is to move tab stops from position to position on a rack on the back of the carriage. To set a stop, put a tab stop at the desired position on the scale on the tab rack. The second, commonly found on later machines, is known as a "key set tabulator." The tab rack consists of a bunch of tab stops, which are set by pressing down on the "tab set" key, and cleared with the "clear" key. Simply move the carriage to the desired position and press the "set" key to set a tab stop. Note, many portables also have a tab set/stop lever, which sets tabs when you pull down on it and clears tabs when you push up on it. Whichever tab system you have, be sure to check your machine's manual for proper operation.

Tabs should not be set far apart from each other. Try to keep about 5-15 spaces between each one. If your machine only came with a few tab stops, either put them on the extreme left, or use your hand to slow down the carriage as you tab.

==End of the Line==

Once you reach the end of your line, you should hear a ding. This is the margin warning ding, an auditory warning to let you know that you are at the end of your line. The bell usually rings 5-10 spaces before you end your line. If you are finishing a short word, end it now and use the carriage return lever to move to the next line. If you have a long word, either wait for the end-of-line-lock (a mechanism that locks up the keys so you can't type past the margin) to engage and press the Margin or Marginal Release button, or truncate the word and add a "-" to the latter half of the work on the next line. Whatever you do, try not to type on the platen, as this can damage it.

==Color Selector==

The Color Selector is what the typewriter uses to make use of both halves of the ribbon. Ribbons come in two styles: Monochrome and Bichrome. Monochrome ribbons are one color, while Bichrome ribbons are 2 colors. Bichrome ribbons have one color on top and one on the bottom, usually black and red, respectively. Color selectors usually have 3 settings: Black, red, and stencil (usually indicated by a white dot), not always in that order. Black uses the top half of the ribbon, red uses the bottom, and stencil uses no ribbon. Stencil was used for cutting stencils for Mimeographs. Some machines, like Hermes 3000s, have more than 3 positions on their color selector, which is for the middle of the ribbon. This is so you can get the most use out of a monochrome ribbon, because it is the same color no matter where you print.

==Ribbon Management==

Your typewriter uses ribbons to type. Ribbons should last about 5 months of heavy use, but can last much longer if used less often. Your manual should include instructions on removing and replacing the ribbon. Be sure to store ribbons in an airtight bag or container to prevent them from drying out. <br />
Different machines have different methods of putting ribbons in (and some don't even use ribbons), but the general idea is that the ribbon is guided through a set of upright holders on either side of where the typeslug will hit it. When threaded, the ribbon should be the thing closest to the paper rather than the guides being closest. <br/>
Typewriters generally have two different kinds of ribbon for printing. It will either have a cloth ribbon or a carbon film ribbon. Cloth ribbons are typically held in large spools and is usually 1/2" thick. Carbon ribbon is usually stored in a cassette located on the carrier of the typewriter and is often only found on electronic typewriters. Fabric ribbons can be used multiple times, while carbon ribbons can only be used once.

==Noise Reduction==

Many typewriters are loud compared to typing on a computer keyboard. The noise can irritate others that live with you and in some cases, even your neighbors. In order to help reduce noise, there are a few simple additions you can make to your stash of typewriter supplies that will help. A typing pad, or a wool mat like those used for pressing small pieces of fabric with an iron, can be used to place a machine on top of it. This will help to reduce noise generated by typing on a hard surface. This is particularly useful with machines that have an open bottom where the mechanism is exposed on the underside of the typewriter as these can often be the loudest machines. Typing pads also help to protect the surface beneath your typewriter from the weight of the machine. Some typewriters can be quite heavy and even the rubber feet can damage the surface of softer woods. The downside of wool typing pads is that they have a tendency to slide around as you type. You can mitigate this by adding a sheet of shelf liner material that has a grip surface under your typing pad or pressing mat. This material is available at most grocery or hardware stores. You can also use cork that is sold in rolls or sheets at craft stores. These materials will stop your typing pad from sliding around as much on your work surface. Another method is to use a sturdier typing surface. Unsecured items or even your typing surface may rattle around, adding to the noise put out by your machine. Be sure that you are typing on a nice, solid surface and that anything that may rattle around when typing is put aside.

== Videos ==
If you prefer, below are a list of some contemporaneous industrial short films which will also provide some useful historical perspective on how to use and care for your typewriter:

* Typing: Methods. Vol. MN-1512a. United States Navy Training Film, 1943. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ztyzGit1dTI.
* Basic Typing: Machine Operation. Vol. MN-1512b. United States Navy Training Film, 1943. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b-REJEArnjE.
* Advanced Typing: Shortcuts. Vol. MN-1512c. United States Navy Training Film, 1943. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JUJfCfqgsX0.
* Advanced Typing: Duplicating and Manuscript. Vol. MN-1512d. United States Navy Training Film, 1943. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7ve5JnTUzvo.
* Maintenance Of Office Machines. Vol. MN-1513. United States Navy Training Film, 1943. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ocdxgkxKAKo.

Recommended Machines

2025-05-20T16:23:35Z

Chrisaldrich: article differentiating standards, portables, ultraportables; video & articles sections

== Recommended Typewriters ==

Buying your first typewriter is often a daunting task. With thousands of models to choose from, and thousands of price points to consider, how can you know you're buying a solid machine that types well, is easily repaired and well-built? Here are a few editors' picks for top typewriters. Please do note that these impressions are subjective and all machines will be somewhat unique. The quality of many machines will depend in part on their age as well as how well-maintained they are and how recently they've been serviced. It's part of their history.

== Standards, Portables, and Ultraportable Typewriters ==
For details on comparing and contrasting standards, portablea, and ultraportable typewriters for your use cases and needs, try [https://boffosocko.com/2025/03/21/standard-typewriters-versus-portable-typewriters-and-ultraportable-typewriters/ Standard Typewriters versus Portable Typewriters and Ultraportable Typewriters].

=== Standards ===

*[[Underwood 5]]

*[[Olympia SG1]]

*[[Remington 24]]

*[[Royal 10]], [[Royal KMM]], [[Royal KMG]], [[Royal HH]], [[Royal FP]]
** These models were broadly very similar over several decades with the primary changes being the exterior body styling.

*[[Remington Standard 17]], [[Remington Standard KMG]], [[Remington Standard]], [[Remington Super-Riter]]

=== Portables ===
*[[Smith-Corona]] Portables

*[[Brother JP-1 and Similar]]

*[[Underwood Four Bank Portables]]

*[[Hermes]]: [[2000]], [[3000]]

*[[Torpedo 18B]]

*[[Remington Portables nos. 1-5]]

*[[Royal Quiet De Luxe]]

*[[Remington Quiet-Riter]]

*[[Olympia SM series]]

*[[Olivetti]]: [[Lettera 22]], [[Lettera 32]], [[Studio 44]]

=== Ultraportables ===
*[[Smith-Corona Skyriter]], [[Corona Zephyr]]

*[[Groma Ultraportables]]

*[[Silver - Seikou Ultraportables]]

*[[Adler - Tippa S]]

== Videos ==
* [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3r3533cSZ38 Standard Typewriter Recommendations] by Mr. & Mrs. Vintage Typewriters (YouTube)
* [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h9dXflhDed0 Top 10 Typewriters] by Mr. & Mrs. Vintage Typewriters (YouTube)
* [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aKMt-aCHZZk Typewriters for Writers] by [[Joe Van Cleave]] (YouTube)

== Articles ==
* [https://typewriterreview.com/2020/01/10/top-10-writerly-typewriters/ Top 10 Typewriters for Writers] by [[Daniel Marleau]]

Recommended Machines

2025-05-20T16:13:43Z

Chrisaldrich: /* Recommended Typewriters */ Broke out a few models and added some similar ones; added proper headings

Typewriter Anatomy

2025-05-20T16:01:26Z

Chrisaldrich: Hints for a Happy Typewriter

__TOC__

== Naming a Part ==

=== Labeled Diagrams ===

Click to see a larger image. Even if one of these is not the exact model of your typewriter, the part will be called the same.

<gallery mode="packed">
super-silent-anatomy.jpg|Smith-Corona Silent-Super
Screenshot_2020-09-20_at_12.57.26_PM.png|Remington Noiseless Portable
Screenshot_2020-09-20_at_12.53.38_PM.png|Royal Quiet De Lux
</gallery>

Don't see your part above? Typewriter Manuals often feature labeled typewriter anatomies. You can find manuals for some common brands and models (and a few rare ones) on [https://site.xavier.edu/polt/typewriters/tw-manuals.html Richard Polt's Site].

=== Plain English ===

* Part that '''holds down the paper''' when you’re writing: Paper Bail

* The '''ruler''' by where the paper goes in: Paper scale

* The thing that '''holds the ribbon''' and rises when you hit a key: ribbon vibrator, ribbon shaker, or ribbon carrier.

* ''' Big silver lever''', usually on the left side: Carriage Return Lever.

== Usage/Meanings ==

* '''Carriage''' - The part of the typewriter that moves back and forth to allow characters to end up where they should. This includes the platen, the frame it rests on, line spacing set mechanism, etc.

* '''Carriage Rail''' - a smooth metal rail the carriage slides across as it moves. These need to be really smooth and rust free. They are one of the few places you should oil.

* '''Escapement''' - The carriage rests on the escapement - the part that only allows the carriage to move forward one space at a time. The main part to be aware of is the star wheel. If teeth are broken off it or very worn, your typewriter will have issues advancing properly.

* '''Carriage Return Lever''' - Used for moving to the next line and returning the carriage to the beginning of the line

* '''Carriage Release''' - Used for moving the carriage around

* '''Paper Release''' - Releases the paper feed rollers, allows you to move paper around freely so you can align it

* '''Platen''' - Pronounced platten, like platter. The (usually black) rubber cylinder the paper rolls around.

* '''Paper Feeds''' - Small round cylinders pressed against the platen to hold the paper on it as it is rolled around the platen.

* '''Platen Variable''' - Allows you to freely turn the paper using the platen knobs, without the ratchet snapping it to the next line

* '''Paper Injector''' - Allows you to feed in paper by placing the paper in the carriage and activating a lever or dial.

* '''Margin Release''' - A key or button that allows you to type past your right margin setting as long as there is platen left. This is marked with "margin release", "MR", four dots, or even nothing at all.

* '''Touch Control''' - Some typewriters have a dial or slider that lets you set how much pressure you need to put on the keys to get them to work.

* '''Alignment''' - Refers to the lining up of characters in a row across the page.

* '''Keyslugs or Typeslugs''' - Metal bits with the characters in reverse that are soldered (or sometimes clipped) onto the type bars. (Some machines are equipped with a '''Typeball''' or '''Type Element'''
* '''Type Ball''' and/or '''Type Element''' A ball or wheel covered in characters that the machine uses to type by spinning the ball/element around and pressing it into the paper.

* '''Type Bars''' - also called key strikers, usually by older people, these are the metal arms that raise (or lower) the keyslugs to the paper.

* '''Linkages''' - The connections between type bars and the metal that comes off the keys themselves.

== See Also ==
* ''[https://typewriterdatabase.com/1983-Hints4HappyTypewriter.index.manual Hints for a Happy Typewriter]'' by Bryan Kravitz and Nancy Gorrell (1983)

Shipping Damage

2024-12-16T18:33:32Z

Chrisaldrich: shipping upright

Welcome to the Shipping Damage page!...you probably do not want to be here, and we're sorry for your loss. That, or you're shipping a typewriter.

This page will try to not only tell you how to avoid shipping damage, but also deal with a machine damaged in shipping and help with claims. If you are looking for help and/or intend to keep the machine, please proceed to [[Repair]] or the Discord server.

__TOC__

==Good Shipping Practices==
It often helps to send a list of shipping tips as well as explanations on how to enact them when shipping typewriters, since specific actions will protect some of the machine's most fragile parts. This is also helpful for more experienced typewriter users who are wondering what the best way of shipping a typewriter is:

1. Tie down any carriage releases and use any carriage lock functions. Using a rubber band, secure the carriage release in a forward or actuated position, tying it against the platen shaft and/or other parts of the typewriter.
1a. Do not use any tape that contacts paint or chrome on the typewriter! Old enamel paint may be liable to strip when tape is adhered and then ripped off.

In combination with a carriage lock, this serves to protect the escapement (spacing mechanism) of the typewriter, which is often difficult to replace and/or repair.

2. The carriage will often slide around freely as a result of the above. Thus, it is a good idea to physically secure the carriage using Saran wrap/plastic wrap, or a sheet of foam taped around it.

This prevents the ends of the carriage -- especially fragile objects like platen knobs -- from taking damage, especially since the carriage will move around freely if the release is tied.

3. Stuff the type-basket with foam or bubble wrap.

This prevents the type-bars from swinging forward in transit, where they may be crushed, damaged, or even snapped.

4. Wrap the entire machine in bubble wrap. If it is a portable machine, secure the machine to the case and wrap the typewriter both inside and outside the case. Then, proceed to wrap the case of the machine if applicable.

This prevents general damage and serves to absorb shock.

5. Ensure the typewriter is boxed in its usual upright position and indicate the up position on the outside of the box. Typewriters shipped in a sideways configuration are much more likely to arrive with damaged carriages and/or have smashed plastic platen knobs.

6. Double-box if possible, and fill up empty space with packing-peanuts. This is especially useful for heavier standard typewriters, which often do not have cases for protection. Try to use newer boxes if possible, and reinforce corners with additional folded cardboard and/or water bottles, or some form of rigid support.

==Dealing with Shipping Damage==

When receiving a shipped typewriter, it is always good practice to '''take records of opening the box'''. Unboxing photos can both be fun to share but also invaluable if damage does occur to the machine, because it serves as a form of documentation.

Shipping damage is the responsibility of the sender, especially if you have provided best practices. Writing a polite message to a seller, including pictures, and explaining the circumstances will help on most selling platforms. It is generally recommended not to leave feedback until you have inspected and tested any typewriter bought online.

==Shipping Claims==

If you are making a shipping claim as a sender, taking pictures while you packed the machine or pictures of the machine after arrival during unboxing/of damage sustained are helpful in your claim. Proof of payment is often required for insurance or recompensation claims.

Royal KMG

2024-12-16T18:27:46Z

Chrisaldrich: historical users; see also: TWdb galleries; image

[[Category:Typewriter]]
__TOC__

[[File:1950_Royal_KMG.jpg|thumb|A gray 1950 Royal KMG typewriter on a wooden card catalog table next to a 10 inch card index tray with index cards in it]]

==History and Basic Info==
The Royal KMG, (Keyset Magic Gray) was manufactured from 1949-1952 as the successor to the [[Royal KMM]]. It is basically the same machine but with glass tombstone keys and a gray paint job. KMMs came in gray, but not as often as KMGs. The "Tombstone Keys" on these machines match those of the Henry Dreyfuss designed [[Royal Quiet De Luxe]].

==Common Issues==
Just like the [[Royal KMM]], KMGs are very solid machines. These will most likely need something like a drawband replacement and some deep cleaning.

==Manual==
[https://site.xavier.edu/polt/typewriters/RoyalKMGdiagram.jpg Royal KMG Parts Diagram]

== Historical Users ==
The Royal KMG was known to have been used by writers including Saul Bellow, Edward Abbey, Joan Didion, Eliz Kazan, Arthur Miller, Fred Rogers, Rod Sterling, Carl Reiner, Grace Metalious, Wallace Stenger, John Ashbery, and George Sheehan.

== See also ==
* [https://typewriterdatabase.com/Royal.KMG.72.bmys Royal KMM galleries at the Typewriter Database]

File:1950 Royal KMG.jpg

2024-12-16T18:24:36Z

Chrisaldrich: A gray 1950 Royal KMG typewriter on a wooden card catalog table next to a 10 inch card index tray with index cards in it

== Summary ==
A gray 1950 Royal KMG typewriter on a wooden card catalog table next to a 10 inch card index tray with index cards in it

Royal KMM

2024-12-16T18:15:56Z

Chrisaldrich: see also: TWdb link

[[Category:Typewriter]]

In 1939, Royal sought to create a successor to its existing [[Royal KHM| "KHM"]] model. The KMM was the result. Featuring a new "Magic-Margin" system seen on many other Royal machines, the KMM is a very common standard machine that writes well.

__TOC__

[[File:Royal-KMM.jpg|thumb]]

==Common Issues==
Royal KMM bells often don't like to work. This can usually be fixed by flushing the end of line lock and bell trip mechanisms. Occasionally these can be found missing left-hand side panels, as they are easy to pop out. Misaligned carriage clamps can occasionally cause a carriage to drag too.

==Variants==

-[[Mill]]: The KMM was often used in the Second World War, and many examples were used to transcribe telegraph/radio messages. These examples will often have slashed zeroes and/or dedicated 1 keys.

==Manual==

* [https://site.xavier.edu/polt/typewriters/RoyalKMM.pdf User's Manual]
* [https://site.xavier.edu/polt/typewriters/RoyalService.pdf Service Manual, 1940]

==Historical Users==
The Royal KMM was known to have been used by writers including: John Ashberry, Harry Ashmore, Russell Baker, Ray Bradbury, Richard Bratigan, Richard Brooks, Pearl S. Buck, Johnny Carson, Norman Corwin, Frank Herbert, Ken Kesey, G.W. Lee, Harper Lee, Ursula K. LeGuin, David McCullough, Margaret Mead, Grangland Rice, and Dorothy Parker.

This was also the model famously used by Angela Landsbury's character on the TV show *Murder, She Wrote*. That typewriter is now in the [https://www.si.edu/object/typewriter-used-jessica-fletcher-angela-lansbury-murder-she-wrote%3Anmah_1335701| Smithsonian Museum].

== See also ==
* [https://typewriterdatabase.com/Royal.KMM.72.bmys Royal KMM galleries at the Typewriter Database]

Royal KMM

2024-12-16T18:09:29Z

Chrisaldrich: historical users