1975 Citizen S4 #1508606
Status: My Collection
Hunter: James Grooms (jgrooms)
Created: 11-27-2025 at 11:20AM
Last Edit: 12-20-2025 at 12:32PM
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Description:
A DB first. Not sure what the SN code is telling me. Maybe 1 is the month and 5 is the year. These came out in 1975, so that would fit. They were gone by ca 79.
An Olivetti style wise. Is it as complicated and unreliable under the cover?
With "IBM keyboard" and "selective electric" it gives you an idea what all the compact office electrics are trying to hit.
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I am not sure who Citizen contracted this out to; maybe it is a Nakajima build? Whoever built it, it is one serious machine. The Achilles heel of many electrics, the rope/band/string/etc, return system has been ditched for a super slick direct drive setup. The motor is massive and thus not working hard. This, combined with the most insulation I have ever seen, makes for whisper-quiet operation. It really needs a light to know when it is on. Topping it all off is one seriously solid and padded case covered in actual leather.
Typeface Specimen:
Links:
Photos:
Hunter: James Grooms (jgrooms)
James Grooms's Typewriter Galleries [ My Collection ] [ My Sightings ]
Status: Typewriter Hunter
Points: 19366
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 anyone area. For example, I am a big fan of Smith Corona electrics, mid century electrics and all things Royal.
RESEARCH NOTE: When researching the Citizen S4 on a computer with lots of screen real estate, you may find that launching the Citizen Serial Number page and the Citizen S4 By Model/Year/Serial page in new browser windows can give you interesting perspectives on changes throughout the model series.
