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1931 Erika Model 5

SKU:
$825.00
$825.00
Unavailable
per item

Up for sale is an absolutely beautiful and rare Erika 5 which was made in Dresden, Germany in 1931. This model is not a common find in America, because this typewriter was not made for exportation into America. Amazingly, this machine is in near mint shape overall, and is fully functional down to the bell. The paint shines like new, and all the labels are in remarkably good shape for this machine's age. The case is also in great condition, but is missing its original leather handle. The carriage return is not a lever, but rather a small piece which has to be pinched, then moved rearward to advance to the next line and then reset. The typewriter does not seem to have rubber feet, so I would recommend typing with it attached to the base so that it does not slide around too much. This typewriter could be used heavily and frequently since it's well built and a very smooth machine to use if you don't mind the rather unusual and finnicky carriage return "lever" - or whatever you choose to call it since it's not really a lever. That being said, there are much more practical machines to write with if you are solely looking for a workhorse to write a novel on, so of course this would not be one I would exactly recommend for that kind of heavy duty writing.

Some more can be read about this machine on Robert Messenger's page here, where he refers to his export-named Erika (Bijou) his 'go-to' typewriter: https://oztypewriter.blogspot.com/2013/06/why-i-love-my-go-to-typewriter.html

The owner's manual can be downloaded for free here, however note that it is in German and will need to be translated unless you know the language: https://site.xavier.edu/polt/typewriters/Erika5.pdf

Universal ribbons will fit this typewriter, however I recommend re-threading the original metal spools since the spools are exposed and it would look out of place to have newer plastic spools in this 90 year old machine.

If you're a collector looking for an absolutely rare and collectible German machine in fully functional shape, then this early Erika 5 is an excellent addition!

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  • Info
    • Why Buy a Typewriter?
    • What You Need To Know About Buying a Typewriter
    • How to Sell a Typewriter
    • How to Ship a Typewriter
    • How to Maintain a Typewriter
    • How to Install a Typewriter Ribbon
    • How to Clean a Typewriter
    • What Is My Typewriter Worth?
  • Collection
  • Sold Typewriters
  • Contact Us
  • Frequently Asked Questions
  • Shipping Information
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