1967 IBM Model D Executive #8280430
Status: My Collection
Hunter: Erik Bruchez (ebruchez)
Created: 06-20-2018 at 04:39PM
Last Edit: 04-21-2024 at 07:41PM
Description:
This machine is not exactly the prettiest, after all it's an IBM. It is an electric (not electronic) machine and like most older electric machines, it uses a "power roller", which is a platen-like roller underneath the machine which is rotated by the electric motor. So it is very different from the Selectric (with its famous golf ball).
This Model D is proportional, so a "W" is wider than an "i", for example. Most functions are electric, including shift, shift lock, backspace, tab, and carriage return.
The machine uses a carbon ribbon. Also note the two space bars which provide a smaller and wider space.
Currently the machine powers on and types a little bit, but it will need cleaning and work to type smoothly.
When new, this machine cost about $700, which in 2018 US dollar equivalent is about $ 5,000! This was a top of the line machine.
This machine features the Mid Century typeface.
UPDATE: Fixed date to 1967 based on Peter's comment. The serials list indeed points to 1967, not 1968.
2023-03-12: This machine now types better after cleaning. Since this machine had apparent water damage on the right side under the carriage, the paint on the cover as well as the case bottom is not great. This also caused some internal corrosion, but fairly localized, and that is not a problem for the operation of the machine. But it means that I'd like to put new covers, or repaint them. I have a spare Model D which might be usable. I also have a blue D Executive, but it turns out that that version of the D Executive had a plastic case bottom case, which I don't like.
2023-03-20: Added typeface samples.
2024-04-21: Machine is restored, with a swap of the body panels, card guides, more cleaning, and fixed detent release lever (which was the hardest part as it required disassembling part of the carriage). Also added pictures after restoration.
Typeface Specimen:
Links:
- Public photo album
- Photo album: IBM Model D Executive (1967) - Restored
- Photo album: IBM Model D Executive (1967) - Restoration in progress
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 IBM Model D Executive on a computer with lots of screen real estate, you may find that launching the IBM Serial Number page and the IBM Model D Executive By Model/Year/Serial page in new browser windows can give you interesting perspectives on changes throughout the model series.