Serviced 1958 Olympia SM3 Green Portable Typewriter Medical Symbols (11CPI)
$524.25
Sale price
$524.25
Regular price
$699.00
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Serviced 1958 Olympia SM3 Green Portable Typewriter Medical Symbols (11CPI)
$524.25
Sale price
$524.25
Regular price
$699.00
Brand
Olympia
Type
Manual
Year
1958
Features
Portable, With Case
Country of Origin
Germany
Vintage
Yes
A fully functional and serviced Olympia SM3 from 1958 represents one of the most mechanically respected mid-century German portables, produced during Olympia’s peak West German engineering years and widely regarded for its precision construction, smooth carriage action, and long-term reliability. The SM3 is frequently cited as one of the most refined portables of the 1950s, valued for both its build quality and its exceptionally controlled typing feel.
Finished in a rich green shell paired with contrasting dark green keys, this machine reflects the confident, purposeful aesthetic of late-1950s European industrial design. The color combination is distinctive without being ornamental, maintaining the SM3’s professional, work-focused presence while offering strong mid-century character.
Fitted with an 11 characters-per-inch typeface (Elite pitch), the machine produces slightly more compact, evenly spaced text with excellent clarity and consistent impression. Elite spacing allows for efficient line use while preserving legibility, making it well suited for correspondence, documentation, and manuscript work.
Notably, this keyboard includes dedicated medical symbols as shown in the typing sample, adding specialized functionality beyond a standard character set. These additional symbols enhance its appeal for medical, academic, or technical documentation and distinguish it from typical SM3 configurations.
Performance is defined by stable carriage travel, precise escapement engagement, and Olympia’s signature controlled, cushioned key response that supports fast, accurate typing with minimal fatigue. The SM3’s solid internal frame and segment-shift design contribute to consistent alignment and a refined, confidence-inspiring feel.
A highly regarded late-1950s German portable combining precision engineering, uncommon green colorway, Elite output, and specialized medical symbols — a serious working machine and a standout addition to any vintage typewriter collection.
Serviced by Adam Brooks with Brooksaw Antiques, an experienced typewriter technician of over 7 years. Servicing vintage typewriters involves a series of steps to restore it to optimal working condition, ensuring smooth operation and longevity. Here’s a summary of what’s typically done:
Inspection: The process starts with a thorough check of all components—keys, typebars, carriage, platen, ribbon mechanism, and springs—to identify wear, damage, or stuck parts.
Cleaning: Decades of dust, ink, and grime are removed. A soft brush and compressed air clear out debris from the typebars and chassis. Keytops are wiped down, and the platen (rubber roller) is cleaned with a mild solvent to restore grip. Harsh chemicals are avoided to protect metal and rubber.
Lubrication: Moving parts—like the carriage rails, typebar pivots, and shift mechanism—are lightly lubricated with typewriter-specific oil.
Adjustments: Alignment is key. Typebars are adjusted to strike evenly, ensuring crisp impressions. The carriage tension is checked, and the escapement (which controls letter spacing) is fine-tuned.
Repairs: Worn or broken parts—like springs, screws, or rubber feet—are replaced. A brand new universal ink ribbon is installed, which is easily replaceable and widely available on most online platforms.
Testing: The typewriter is typed on extensively—every key, shift, spacebar, and return—to confirm smooth action, proper alignment, and consistent ink delivery. Any sluggishness (e.g., sticky keys) is addressed by revisiting problem areas.
Shipments are all packed to be virtually indestructible and shipped same or next business day. You are risking damage if you buy from a non experienced shipper! Check our reviews! Serial number is . Please see photos for condition.