Olympia "The Society" Typewriter - Facile model - New platen
We have run out of stock for this item.
As per previous owner and online sources, this typewriter is an uncommon variant of Olympia's Simplex portable typewriter, labelled the 'Facile Model' and supplied under the brand name 'The Society.' It was produced by Olympia for the Army and Navy Co-Operative Society. The Society (hence the branding on the typewriter's paper plate) was formed in 1871 by a group of British army and navy officers with the intention of supplying articles of domestic consumption and general use to its members at the lowest rates. In 1934, a year before this typewriter's manufacture, the company's official name became the Army and Navy Store Ltd. The Store continued selling goods well into the 20th Century, eventually being taken over by department store House of Fraser in 1973.
I have seen one before.. Have one in our personal collection and that is only the 3rd to surface in the market. Excellent addition to any collection.
Serial 80120 from 1927. as per typewriter database.
Mechanical condition.
Professionally restored to perfect working order.
New & fresh Black ribbon fitted on original metal spools.
NEW PLATEN FITTED
Nice dinging bell and smooth action.
Clear imprints.
Cosmetic condition:
genuinely restored & serviced and and made sure to replace the old platen as it deserved a new rubber roller.
Age marks on the chrome parts.
Good to very good frame with minor surface marks but the original paint is not less than perfect for its age and compared to other items we worked on.
Clean round Keys with glass tops. some have damaged glass but wont affect using it. and some has discolouration due to age.
Original carrying lid and base that are in ok to good condition. Can be easily unscrewed from its base when we recommend keeping it, .
New handle fitted.
CASE LID IS NOT SECURE as lock is damaged.
Keyboard & Font/Typeface:
QWERTY Keyboard
PICA typeface
10 pts per the inch.