1919 Hammond Multiplex #AL 201257
Status: My Collection
Hunter: Erik Bruchez (ebruchez)
Created: 01-04-2019 at 10:21PM
Last Edit: 01-04-2019 at 10:24PM
Description:
Just in time for Christmas, I found this 1919 Hammond Multiplex Portable - my first Hammond :)
The machine is not yet functional but it is in great shape, protected by its original case.
I learned that you need a rubber "impression strip" to make those work properly (somebody sells those on eBay). There is no cylindrical platen like on most typewriters, so the strip acts as a platen, damping the impact of the hammer which strikes from behind the paper.
Also, the "anvil" (the round wheel) can hold two separate types (fonts). You can switch quickly between one the other by rotating the anvil. You can also easily pull out and swap types.
I consider myself very lucky to have found it and for a really, really good price. The lady who was selling it was really nice and had it (and two other typewriters which I bought too!) from her late husband. Now I fear that I will be interested in older Hammonds ;)
Typeface Specimen:
Links:
Photos:
Hunter: Erik Bruchez (ebruchez)
Erik Bruchez's Typewriter Galleries [ My Collection ] [ My Sightings ]
Status: Typewriter Hunter
Points: 11371
I started collecting my first pre-WW2 standard typewriters in 2017. Since then I have added a few machines to my collection, which now ranges from the 1880s to the 1980s. As of 2024, I have more big standard (desktop) typewriters than portables, a few standard electrics, and some unusual machines like Varitypers, uncommon IBM machines, and more. I am not a pro restorer, but I have restored a few of my machines beyond simple cleaning.
RESEARCH NOTE: When researching the Hammond Multiplex on a computer with lots of screen real estate, you may find that launching the Hammond Serial Number page and the Hammond Multiplex By Model/Year/Serial page in new browser windows can give you interesting perspectives on changes throughout the model series.