1957 Tower Commander #5AT634811

Status: My Collection
Hunter: Richard Bettes (GramsRoyal)
Created: 08-06-2018 at 01:22PM
Last Edit: 05-12-2019 at 07:26PM

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Description:

I rescued this example from a flea market in Belleville, IL a couple of weeks ago. The seller wanted $55.00 for it, but it was absolutely filthy: I think the previous owner oiled it with 30wt, and there was dried grease, tobacco stains, and what looked like pencil sharpener shavings deep inside the segment and the escapement. Having no idea what a Tower Commander was, I left and went home to do some research. When I found out it is essentially a Smith Corona, I went back and negotiated $40.00 and brought it home. After a week and a half of thorough cleaning and fixing the margin stop, it types quite well, even if it is just a bit stiffer than the Quiet Deluxe I have.
This is my first attempt at a serious reconditioning-conservation.
Sold in August of 2018.

Typeface Specimen:

Photos:

Hunter: Richard Bettes (GramsRoyal)

Richard Bettes's Typewriter Galleries [ My Collection ] [ My Sightings ]

Status: Typewriter Hunter
Points: 232

I am a retired printer going back to letterpress and hot type days, and just recently have begun collecting. I have acquired four typewriters so far, ranging from the 30's to the 60's; two Royals and two Smith-Coronas (well, almost two--one is a Sears Tower Commander). I love working on small machinery, and have been known to do a bit of woodworking occasionally. Also play guitar and mandolin and have been spotted at picnics and barbecues playing in string bands (Americana). I think old cars are great as well.
I don't have a preference for a specific style or date of typewriter yet, but seem drawn to mid-century portables. I'd like to try a few desktops to complement my writing, but we'll see what the budget and my wife's sanity can tolerate.