Serviced 1928 Underwood 4 Bank Red Woodgrain Typewriter New Platen Elite

Fully functional and professionally serviced, this 1928 Underwood Four-Bank Portable is a stunning example of one of the most influential portable typewriters ever produced. Finished in a striking faux woodgrain Duco finish and equipped with the desirable Elite typeface (12 characters per inch), this machine embodies the elegance, innovation, and craftsmanship that made Underwood one of the most respected names in typewriter history.

Introduced during the Roaring Twenties, the Four-Bank Portable helped define what a truly practical portable typewriter could be. Its compact design made it easy to transport, while its robust construction and responsive touch provided a writing experience that rivaled many office machines of the era. Underwood's engineering excellence is evident throughout, from the smooth carriage action to the crisp, precise feel of the keyboard.

The beautifully preserved faux woodgrain finish gives this machine exceptional visual appeal. Unlike the more common black examples, the woodgrain models have become especially sought after by collectors for their warmth, character, and unmistakable Art Deco-era styling. Combined with the nickel-plated hardware and glass-topped keys, the result is a portable typewriter that looks every bit as impressive as it performs.

A newly installed 3D printed platen provides a firm, consistent typing surface, allowing the machine to produce crisp impressions while avoiding the hard, deteriorated feel commonly found on original platens approaching a century of age. This upgrade greatly enhances the writing experience while preserving the machine's vintage character.

Its Elite typeface prints 12 characters per inch, allowing more text on each line while producing a refined, professional appearance. The font is crisp, highly legible, and particularly well suited for correspondence, manuscript work, and display purposes. Many collectors actively seek Elite-equipped machines because of their versatility and distinctive appearance on the page.

Nearly a century after it was built, this Underwood remains a remarkable testament to American manufacturing and design. Rarely does a machine so successfully combine historical significance, practical usability, and visual beauty. Whether destined for a collection, a writer's desk, or display in a home or office, this 1928 Underwood Four-Bank Portable represents the very best of the golden age of typewriters.