My favourite traveling typewriter?
For me originally it came down to two machines - the Hermes Baby and the Smith Corona Skyriter, which are similar in size and weight (weighing at 3.2kg and 3.4kg respectively without covers), but deciding a favourite was hard since they have their own merits. For me, the Hermes is a more solid machine with superior type. However, the Skyriter wins hands down when it comes to look, especially with the Chrome finishing.
Hermes Baby
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Smith Corona Skyriter
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Then later on throwing into the mix is a Gossen Tippa I have acquired complete with its original leather brief case. It is a very sturdy machine and types very well, but it weights slightly heavier than the Hermes and the Skyriter at 3.6kg (without cover), so it seems like my list of favourite traveling typewriter just keeps on expanding!
Gossen Tippa
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Gossen Tippa
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One of my considerations for a good traveling typewriter, is to have a machine which can handle a little rough treatment, as I often carry them loosely in my backpack. So in this regard, the Tippa has proven to be the sturdiest option. This is also why I enjoy traveling with my Olympia 66 & 99. Although 1kg heavier than the Hermes Baby, they are robust machines and a joy to type with. They are very good all-purpose machines with the build and type quality of a desk top. These along with the Brother De Luxe and the Olivetti Lettera 32 (or 22) are my choices for a good reliable multi-purpose typewriter. In contrast to ultra-portables, I feel I can type to my hearts content with these machines.
Olympia Splendid 99
Lettera 32
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Olympia Splendid 66
Brother De Luxe
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Although, the Corona 3 is not the most practical machine to travel with, but it’s still one my top choices (usually as my second typewriter). The downside is that you can’t pack it too loosely in a backpack, as it needs to be transported in its case, though the case does fit nicely in a standard backpack. It definitely needs to be handled with a little more care, but boy oh boy does it create a lot of interest when you’re out and about typing! The Corona 3 gives you a great pleasure to type with and it adds a touch of nostalgia to your day. The Underwood Standard Portable Typewriter is another vintage machine which has the same constraints as the Corona 3 but it's still a good option!
Corona 3
Underwood Standard Portable
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Corona 3
Underwood Standard Portable
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At the end of the day, any of the above can be your perfect traveling typewriter, it all comes down to a matter of personal taste and what you are prepared to carry. If you can't decide on one, then buy two or three! As it's nice to mix things up from time to time!
Happy and safe travels always!
Happy and safe travels always!