1969 Olivetti Praxis 48 #5154244
Status: My Collection
Hunter: James Grooms (jgrooms)
Created: 07-13-2025 at 12:51PM
Last Edit: 07-14-2025 at 02:04PM
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Description:
What was the thought process for labeling some of them Olivetti-Underwood and others just Olivetti?
The manual states this will type 840 characters in 60 sec. That would be fourteen per second. So on a test run of 5 seconds using the X key it should do 70. Will it? Not even close at 54-56 per 5 seconds. 55 x 12 is 660 or nearly 25% short of the mark. All part of a pattern from the boys in Turin.
This machine was on the bubble, project or parts? I leaned with parts. However, once I had a working example, I could sort through all the functions. So, based on my 'vast' experience with three, I would say the tab/tab brake/dashpot is the weak link. And when it doesn't trip right, it is hard to get to things! My theory is that it gets to sticking/stuck and then it goes through a period where people are hammering on it and slamming the carriage around. Then you get a flying carriage situation, and they're done with it.
Typeface Specimen:
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Hunter: James Grooms (jgrooms)
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Status: Typewriter Hunter
Points: 16093
Typewriters are the perfect blend of using one's technical skills, history and functional purpose. My goal is type tested machines. My interests are not isolated to anyone area. For example, I am a big fan of Smith Corona electrics, mid century electrics and all things Royal.
RESEARCH NOTE: When researching the Olivetti Praxis 48 on a computer with lots of screen real estate, you may find that launching the Olivetti Serial Number page and the Olivetti Praxis 48 By Model/Year/Serial page in new browser windows can give you interesting perspectives on changes throughout the model series.
