195X Olivetti Graphika #09904
Status: My Collection
Hunter: William Saxbe (wsaxbe)
Created: 01-29-2022 at 02:50AM
Last Edit: 11-26-2024 at 08:44PM
Description:
I'm quite smitten with this lovely pistachio green Glasgow-made Graphika, with an unconventionally high serial number: 09904. I am fairly confident this machine was quite close to end of model production in 1959, as other Scottish serials begin with 08XXX. English keyboard and Cassandre typeface. Was sourced from Germany and arrived in just perfect shape. Was worried as I'd heard accounts that these fiddly machines are extremely delicate and unsuited to travel. Fortunately, the mechanicals and cosmetics are surprisingly pristine, to the point I don't really even need to do a deep clean (mild disappointed noises).
The Typeface is really superb. It looks nice in either the compact or expanded settings. Both are included in the type sample.
The proportional text paired with the unique typefaces is very pleasing to the eye. The keys do require a longer pull, and a more forceful hand than I am accustomed to, and they don't respond well to high speed work. The original proportional mechanism may need a fraction more time and pressure to engage correctly. Notably, the pressure to make a nice impression for a middle sized letter will be faint on a larger one (m,w) and punch through the paper with the narrow characters and punctuations (I, l, .). The end product is definitely worth the extra time and toil.
Typeface Specimen:
Photos:
Hunter: William Saxbe (wsaxbe)
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RESEARCH NOTE: When researching the Olivetti Graphika on a computer with lots of screen real estate, you may find that launching the Olivetti Serial Number page and the Olivetti Graphika By Model/Year/Serial page in new browser windows can give you interesting perspectives on changes throughout the model series.