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1953 Optima Plana Serial # 229572 1953 Optima Plana typewriter, Serial # 229572 Uwe Wachtendorf's 1953 Optima Plana typewriter. 2014-07-19 From the Virtual Typewriter Collection of Uwe Wachtendorf: 1953 Optima Plana Serial # 229572 I love the overall design of the Plana, but am far less impressed by the quality of its type action (my other Plana feels just as wooden, so I don't think it's an issue with this particular machine). There's one other peeve: the gull-wing ribbon covers with their dual springs and flexible metal retainers are a terrible design and a classic example of over-engineering. After all, all you need is a hinge and a simple latch, something that other manufacturers such as Hermes and Gossen got right.

Perhaps what I like best about this typewriter is its incredible patina. I'm at a loss to explain why certain areas of the paint have been so worn that the metal beneath is not only exposed, but polished from constant contact. Most machines in this state become candidates for restoration, but I'm keeping this Optima in as-is condition.

1953 Optima Plana #229572

Status: My Collection
Hunter: Uwe Wachtendorf (Uwe)
Created: 07-17-2014 at 08:29AM
Last Edit: 07-19-2014 at 11:15PM

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Description:

I love the overall design of the Plana, but am far less impressed by the quality of its type action (my other Plana feels just as wooden, so I don't think it's an issue with this particular machine). There's one other peeve: the gull-wing ribbon covers with their dual springs and flexible metal retainers are a terrible design and a classic example of over-engineering. After all, all you need is a hinge and a simple latch, something that other manufacturers such as Hermes and Gossen got right.

Perhaps what I like best about this typewriter is its incredible patina. I'm at a loss to explain why certain areas of the paint have been so worn that the metal beneath is not only exposed, but polished from constant contact. Most machines in this state become candidates for restoration, but I'm keeping this Optima in as-is condition.

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Hunter: Uwe Wachtendorf (Uwe)

Uwe Wachtendorf's Typewriter Galleries [ My Collection ] [ My Sightings ]

Status: Typewriter Hunter
Points: 13159

Typewriter collector based in Toronto who prefers mid-century models.


RESEARCH NOTE: When researching the Optima Plana on a computer with lots of screen real estate, you may find that launching the Optima Serial Number page and the Optima Plana By Model/Year/Serial page in new browser windows can give you interesting perspectives on changes throughout the model series.

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