Underwood

Underwood

Underwood was one of the most prolific typewriter manufacturers in history. Based out of New York City, 1895 saw the production of the first Underwood Standard Typewriter. Designed by Franz X. Wagner, this standard frontstroke machine was generally considered the first modern typewriter and catapulted the company to success before a merger with Olivetti in 1963.

Standards

Name	Date Range	Description and Rarity	-
Underwood 1, Underwood 2	1895-1900	The first Underwood standards had metal paper scales and a more primitive bail roller system, and their frontstroke design made them the first "modern" typewriter. These machines are quite rare, and often command high prices; however, given that they look very similar to later Underwood standards, they may often be overlooked.
Underwoods nos. 3, 4, 5	1895-1933	The Underwoods 3, 4, and 5 were variations on a highly successful theme. Differences from the 1 and 2 included a redesigned shift system and more keys, and a different ribbon color selection system. Their abundance makes them less valuable; however, they tend to type well and are excellent beginners' machines due to their attractive design and ease of repair. The 3 is wide-carriage; the 4 types 78 characters and the 5 types 84.
Underwood 6	Far too long	Just no.	Disclaimer: one of our editors hates it; it's not that bad.
Underwood Master	1937-40	The Underwood Master was the successor to the 6. A distinctive trait was the "door" implemented on the front of the machine to access the typebars for cleaning. A comparatively uncommon Underwood, but still a very common machine. Tends to type well.
Underwood S, SS	194	Example	Example
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