1970 Olivetti Valentine #60211620

Status: Typewriter Hunter
Points: 198

My name is François, I’m French, and I work in IT and web marketing. Born in the 90s, I didn’t grow up using typewriters, but I’ve always had a passion for flea markets and vintage treasures. One day, I found myself face-to-face with an old Underwood No. 5 in rather poor condition. Something about it sparked my curiosity. I decided to take it under my wing, carefully restoring and reviving it. Seeing it come back to life was a turning point.

Since then, I’ve developed a real passion for collecting and restoring typewriters of all kinds. What I enjoy most is bringing their intricate mechanisms back to full working order, piece by piece. I take great pride in ensuring each machine I restore is not only beautiful but fully operational.

Over the past eight years, more than sixty typewriters have passed through my hands and my small workshop. As much as I would love to create a personal museum, space is limited—and my partner has a keen eye on our home’s interior design! So I choose to pass on most of the machines I restore, bringing joy to fellow enthusiasts and collectors. Of course, I keep a few special models that hold a place close to my heart.

Today, I wish to contribute to the TWDB, a resource that has given me invaluable information over the years. It’s my turn to give back and share what I can with this wonderful community.