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1983 Smith Corona Classic 12 Serial # GMLG 142883W 1983 Smith Corona Classic 12 typewriter, Serial # GMLG 142883W James Grooms's 1983 Smith Corona Classic 12 typewriter. 2026-04-23 From the Virtual Typewriter Collection of James Grooms: 1983 Smith Corona Classic 12 Serial # GMLG 142883W The last Classic 12? Well, so far, the last one in the DB Gallery. The Classic 12 was the last typewriter to roll off the line in Groton in 1983. I wonder if some sentimental employee saved it.

There are some interesting things about these late models. First off, they finally put a good platen on them. It is thick and, generally, they hold up well. They eliminated the rubber 'silencer' bit on the escapement, so they make a return noise. Some of the late electrics have a silencer spring in there and are smooth and quiet. I wonder if that spring can be pulled out and used on earlier escapements.

1983 Smith Corona Classic 12 #GMLG 142883W

Status: My Collection
Hunter: James Grooms (jgrooms)
Created: 04-23-2026 at 09:55AM
Last Edit: 04-23-2026 at 10:03AM


Description:

The last Classic 12? Well, so far, the last one in the DB Gallery. The Classic 12 was the last typewriter to roll off the line in Groton in 1983. I wonder if some sentimental employee saved it.

There are some interesting things about these late models. First off, they finally put a good platen on them. It is thick and, generally, they hold up well. They eliminated the rubber 'silencer' bit on the escapement, so they make a return noise. Some of the late electrics have a silencer spring in there and are smooth and quiet. I wonder if that spring can be pulled out and used on earlier escapements.

Typeface Specimen:

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Hunter: James Grooms (jgrooms)

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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.



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