1960 Siamese Olympia SM2

SKU:
$595.00
$595.00
Unavailable
Up for sale is a one-of-a-kind Olympia SM2 with a Siamese (Thai) keyboard. This typewriter was manufactured in Germany in 1960. Not a lot of Siamese typewriters are out there to begin with, so there are probably very few (if any) of this model with this keyboard, particularly in America. As such, not a lot of information is out there on machines like this one. From examining this machine, there are some key things to note relating to the keyboard. The keys towards the center of the keyboard are known as "dead" keys, meaning that when those keys are pressed, the carriage does not space as it would for the other keys. This is because those keys produce characters that end up just above or below the other characters, most similar to an accent key on an other foreign typewriter. This typewriter also has a modified ribbon color selector, only allowing for a single color ribbon. The type guide has separate slots for the dead keys and the other keys. This also explains why there appears to be 2 missing typebars when you look in the type basket, however this was done on purpose to bend the dead keys so that they go in their separate slot of the type guide. 
Overall, this typewriter is in great shape, and is fully functional right down to the bell. The chrome shines beautifully, although the crinkle paint has some minor white-out stains and isn't perfect overall. There isn't any rust anywhere on this machine. This typewriter is pretty easy to use and care for, especially if you are familiar with the Thai language. Universal ribbons fit this machine, however keep in mind that you'll need a single color ribbon. 
If you're looking for a Siamese/Thai typewriter, this may be your only chance at owning one for yourself. 
Out of stock