We Are In The Electronics Era – Why Are There Manual Typewriters For Sale?

What do writers use now? Definitely the best friends today of authors are no longer the typewriters. Computers, laptops and netbooks – these are the essentials that replaced the typewriters. Yet, browsing in the internet, you will find sites with typewriters for sale? Is there an existing need for this machine? It has been ages since I have heard the sound of a person typing. And I think I miss it – I have to look at the ads about typewriters for sale.

Reasons for buying typewriters

Pondering on the purposes why people still buy typewriters, I come up with a few reasons. One, there are those who want to collect antiques and one typewriter made in the 1900’s is a good buy for them. Then there are those who buy for sentimental reasons – maybe they just want to go back in time. A third reason could be therapeutic purpose.

I, for one, am search of a manual typewriter. Since I have not experienced using it I have not much knowledge on choosing one. I am contemplating on buying a re-conditioned item – not the vintage and expensive one. All I need is a functional and tidy unit.

Where to find manual typewriters for sale

I have seen several typewriters for sale in junk shops and they really are a mess. And I have seen some in second-hand shops, displayed behind glass casings and they look good.  Then I went on-line and I am trying to find one that will suit my budget yet properly re-conditioned.

My real purpose in buying – this is a gift for an old man, a former writer, my mentor in typing. He is my grandpa and I am buying for two reasons stated above – for sentimental reason and for therapeutic. He has suffered stroke and his fingers, hands and arms had to be exercised. He can do typing by reminiscing his past as a writer. Isn’t the typewriter a perfect gift for the old man?

Here are the guidelines for my choice –

I have to identify the reason for the typewriter. The keys should not be too hard, just right to exercise the fingers. The model should be similar to the one he used to use – Olivetti brand. If I could not find this brand, then maybe I will opt for Olympia or Remington. These are reputable brands and these are the brands many colleagues of my grandpa used way back when he was still actively authoring. I understand also that with these brands, I can easily find typewriter parts. I would not settle for a portable or an electronic typewriter, although these are also available today. They will defeat the purpose of my purchase.

I know I will find what I am looking for. There are many manual typewriters for sale – be it on-line or on-site shops. I know this gift will make my grandpa happy. See – old equipments still have great utility.