196X Avona Jet #unknown

Status: My Collection
Hunter: James Gifford (giffer)
Created: 05-06-2017 at 01:03PM
Last Edit: 05-06-2017 at 01:09PM

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Description:

I bought this in a last-minute bid on eBay, surprised I was the only bidder (the opening bid wasn't as low as it might have been, but I bit). I enjoyed opening up this typer when it arrived, as I know little about it. One blogger suggests its provenance as a rebadged Underwood Diplomat, and good Richard Polt commented on my indulgent Instagram post that it quite closely resembles an Antares. I don't disagree with him. The curious thing is the machine is clearly stamped Made in USA, not Italy, though perhaps it was so stamped for export, or maybe it was assembled in the USA, so technically "made" there. I could not find a serial number, though I did notice a black streak in the shape of a serial number on the frame by the right ribbon spool--not made by marker, but perhaps its tar, or something else gummy, and I can't seem to easily remove it. There are two other matching numbers on the frame and the ribbon cover, though these match the numbers the blogger found on his exact machine, so must relate to the model somehow. In any case, other than these unusual factors it's a rather unremarkable machine, except I do enjoy its low Antares-esque profile and high-swung return lever. I don't even mind the bandage on its chin (I haven't looked underneath yet). It types adequately if noisily. I'd love to know more about it.

Typeface Specimen:

Photos:

Plaid case! Slightly roached.

Note colour selector.

Hunter: James Gifford (giffer)

James Gifford's Typewriter Galleries [ My Collection ] [ My Sightings ]

Status: Typewriter Hunter
Points: 2325

I am a writer and book editor as well as a collector of typewriters. It started with an Hermes 3000 desktop, which I stupidly sold last year, but now another sits on my desk for typing envelopes with a beautiful sans serif typeface. I type every day on different machines in my collection, which stands at about 60 at the moment. Favourites include my two 3000s, a 1930s Smith-Corona Silent, the Olivetti Studio 44 (red case), and a crinkle, chrome-encircled Royal Quiet Deluxe. I have also been finding very inexpensive Royal 10s of late; I currently own three, two from the 1910s and the other a later model, and another (1931) I sold to a friend at cost for his son, who appreciates vintage things. I am always on the lookout for new and interesting machines and often trade or sell to try new models. Living and working in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.