1961 Adler Primus
Up for sale is an uncommon Adler Primus which was made in Western Germany in 1961. This machine was a rebranded Triumph Gabrielle (Triumph and Adler merged in 1957). This machine is in good shape all around, although the eagle emblem above the "ADLER" emblem on the typebasket cover is missing and its area was painted yellow by the previous owner. The body style is intriguing, and has extremely smooth lines. Machines of Loving Grace claims that the Primus types much better than it looks- which says a lot since this machine isn't even that ugly. Everything on this machine is fully functional right down to the bell, and it does indeed type really nicely. The mechanism is extremely smooth and reliable, making this machine an excellent candidate for heavy and frequent use.
This machine fits somewhat securely on its base, however the two tension levers do not keep it completely latched because the rubber seals have deteriorated and are gone, as are the four rubber feet on the base plate. The rubber feet on the typewriter itself (once lifted off the base plate) are in perfect shape and are not too hard or worn.
Both the base plate and the lid of the case are some sort of metal compound, and have some weight to them. The lid is in good shape, but the paint is worn in many places revealing the bare metal compound. The case latches as it should and can be carried by the handle which extends outwards.
Universal ribbons fit this machine perfectly, and the owner's manual can be downloaded for free here: http://site.xavier.edu/polt/typewriters/AdlerPrimusFavorit.pdf
If you're in the market for a unique German-made portable that's ready to be used heavily and reliably right out of the box and for many years to come, this is an amazing choice.