1972 Brother Activator 899 #C2120101
Status: My Collection
Hunter: James Grooms (jgrooms)
Created: 04-12-2026 at 04:13AM
Last Edit: 04-12-2026 at 05:06AM
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Description:
This one is the same as an Echelon 89. Brother using the Smith Corona philosophy tried hard to come up with as many different names for essentially the same models. Why did they need a full Echelon and Activator lineup? Something to do with the different department stores, possibly? Maybe the Activator lineup fit in with some seller's product line.
This one had been banged around. The paper bail and erasure table were bent with parts missing. The body was all out of alignment as the dents in the sides would indicate. The right platen knob was so bent that it wouldn't spin without resistance. Parts from the bins and a couple of hours on that stupid repeat spacer, and boom. I had to save it just for the Cal decal.
Typeface Specimen:
Links:
Photos:
Hunter: James Grooms (jgrooms)
James Grooms's Typewriter Galleries [ My Collection ] [ My Sightings ]
Status: Typewriter Hunter
Points: 22922
Typewriters are the perfect blend of using one's technical skills, history and functional purpose. My goal is type tested machines. My interests are not isolated to any one area. For example, I am a big fan of Smith Corona electrics, mid century electrics and all things Royal.
RESEARCH NOTE: When researching the Brother Activator 899 on a computer with lots of screen real estate, you may find that launching the Brother Serial Number page and the Brother Activator 899 By Model/Year/Serial page in new browser windows can give you interesting perspectives on changes throughout the model series.
