New!! 2024 Typewriter_Swap Disclaimer

1. Role of Typewriter_Swap and Moderators: Typewriter_Swap serves as a platform for individuals interested in buying, selling, or trading typewriters and related items. The moderators of this subreddit facilitate discussions and provide a space for transactions but are not involved in the actual transactions between buyers and sellers. As such, the moderators and Typewriter_Swap bear no responsibility for any transactions that take place.

2. Transaction Risks and Responsibilities: All transactions and interactions made through this subreddit are at the users' own risk. Users are responsible for conducting their own due diligence, such as verifying the condition and authenticity of items, confirming the trustworthiness of buyers/sellers, and ensuring safe and secure payment and delivery methods.

3. No Liability: The moderators and Typewriter_Swap shall not be liable for any loss, damage, or dispute arising from any transaction or interaction occurring as a result of postings on this subreddit. This includes, but is not limited to, fraud, loss of money, non-delivery of items, and personal disagreements.

4. Reporting Issues: If you encounter any fraudulent activity or scams, please report them to the moderators immediately. However, note that our ability to intervene or assist in resolving disputes is limited.

5. Compliance with Laws: Users are expected to comply with all applicable local, state, national, and international laws and regulations related to buying, selling, and trading items. It is the user's responsibility to ensure that their transaction is lawful.

6. Advice and Opinions: Opinions or advice given in this subreddit are the personal views of the members expressing them. They do not represent the views of Typewriter_Swap or its moderators.

By participating in Typewriter_Swap, you acknowledge and agree to these terms. Engage in transactions wisely and cautiously, and enjoy your passion for typewriters responsibly!

Guide to Using Post Flairs on Typewriter_Swap

Hello Typewriter enthusiasts!

We've implemented a system of post flairs to make navigation and transaction processes smoother and more organized on our subreddit. Here's a quick guide to help you understand and effectively use these flairs:

1. WTB (Want to Buy):

• Usage: If you're looking to buy a specific typewriter or related item, use this flair.
• Example Post Title: "[WTB] Vintage Smith-Corona Skyriter"

2. WTS (Want to Sell):

• Usage: If you have a typewriter or related item you wish to sell, select this flair.
• Example Post Title: "[WTS] Refurbished 1950s Royal Quiet De Luxe"

3. WTT (Want to Trade):

• Usage: Use this flair if you're interested in trading one of your items for another.
• Example Post Title: "[WTT] My Olympia SM3 for a Hermes 3000"

4. Pending:

• Usage: Once you're in the process of finalizing a deal, but it's not yet complete, update your post with this flair.
• Example: After agreeing to terms in a WTS or WTB post but before the transaction is finalized.

5. Closed:

• Usage: After a sale, purchase, or trade is complete, please mark your post with the Closed flair.
• Example: Once you’ve sold your typewriter or successfully purchased one.

How to Apply a Flair to Your Post:

1. Create Your Post: Write your post as usual, detailing what you're selling, buying, or trading.
2. Select a Flair: Before submitting, click on the 'Flair' option below your post.
3. Choose the Appropriate Flair: Select from WTB, WTS, WTT, Pending, or Closed.
4. Submit Your Post: Once the flair is selected, you can post it to the subreddit.

Tips for Effective Flair Use:

• Be Accurate: Make sure to choose the flair that best represents your post's intention.
• Keep Updated: Change the flair to 'Pending' or 'Closed' as your transaction progresses.
• Clarity is Key: A well-flaired post helps others quickly understand your post’s purpose.

Why Use Flairs?

• Organization: Flairs help keep the subreddit organized and navigable.
• Efficiency: They make it easier for users to find what they’re looking for.
• Community Engagement: A well-organized subreddit enhances user experience and engagement.

We hope this guide helps you in making the most of Typewriter_Swap! If you have any questions or suggestions, feel free to reach out to the mod team.

How to Title Your Post: A Step By Step Guide

To make our subreddit more organized and user-friendly, we have a specific format for titling your posts. This format helps everyone quickly understand the key details of your listing at a glance. Here's how to title your posts correctly, with examples:

[Want to Buy/Want to Sell/Want to Trade] + [Year] + [Make] + [Model] + [Condition] + [Location] + [Shipping/Pickup] + [Price]

Step-by-Step Breakdown:

1. Purpose: Start with 'Want to Buy', 'Want to Sell', or 'Want to Trade'.
2. Year: Include the manufacturing year if known.
3. Make: Specify the brand of the typewriter.
4. Model: Include the model name or number.
5. Condition: Use the condition grade from our grading system (e.g., Mint, Good, Fair).
6. Location: Mention your city or region.
7. Shipping/Pickup: State whether you're offering shipping, local pickup, or both.
8. Price: If you're selling, include the asking price.

Examples:

• [Want to Sell] 1954 Smith-Corona Silent Super [Good] [New York, NY] [Shipping] [$250]
• [Want to Buy] 1930s Royal KMM [Any Condition] [Los Angeles, CA] [Pickup/Shipping]
• [Want to Trade] 1962 Hermes 3000 [Excellent] [Chicago, IL] [Pickup/Shipping] [Trade for Olympia SM9]

Why This Format?

• Clarity and Efficiency: This format provides all the essential information at a glance, making it easy for users to quickly find what they’re interested in.
• Consistency: A uniform format across all posts helps maintain a clean, organized look for the subreddit.
• Searchability: Consistent titles make it easier for users to search for specific types or conditions of typewriters.

Tips for an Effective Title:

• Be Accurate: Ensure all information in your title is accurate and up-to-date.
• Keep It Concise: Stick to the required format without adding extra fluff.
• Update as Needed: If any details change (e.g., price drop), update your title accordingly.

Final Thoughts:

A well-formatted title is the first step to a successful transaction on Typewriter_Swap. By following these guidelines, you’ll make it easier for other community members to engage with your posts. We appreciate your cooperation in keeping our community organized and efficient!

Guidelines for Detailed and Informative Posts

To ensure that our subreddit remains a trusted and efficient platform for buying, selling, and trading typewriters, we require all posts to be as informative and detailed as possible. This not only helps in making transactions smoother but also builds trust within our community. Here’s what you need to include in your posts:

1. Comprehensive Description:

1. Make and Model: Clearly state the brand and model of the typewriter.
2. Condition: Describe the current condition of the typewriter in detail. Include any functional issues or cosmetic damages.
3. History: If known, share a brief history of the typewriter (e.g., previous owners, how it was used).
4. Serial Number: Provide the serial number, which helps in verifying the model and estimating the year of manufacture.
5. Year of Manufacture: If known, include the approximate year or range of years when the typewriter was manufactured.

2. High-Resolution Photos:

1. All Sides: Include clear, high-resolution photos of all sides of the typewriter - front, back, left, right, top, and bottom.
2. Marks or Scuffs: Close-up photos of any physical marks, scuffs, or damage.
3. Typing Sample: Provide a photo or scan of a paper that shows all the letters and shift keys typed onto the page. This demonstrates the typewriter's functionality.
4. INCLUDE 1 TIMESTAMPED PHOTO WITH USERNAME & DATE: You must include at least ONE photo with a written/typed paper that matches the reddit username on the post. Please also include the current date. Failure to comply will cause a removal of your post.

3. Location and Shipping Information:

1. Location: Mention your location and whether you are willing to ship locally, nationally, or internationally.
2. Shipping Preferences: If applicable, include preferred shipping methods and an estimate of shipping costs.

Why Is This Important?

• Transparency: Detailed posts create transparency and reduce the risk of misunderstandings or disputes.
• Informed Decisions: Buyers can make more informed decisions when they have a clear understanding of what they are purchasing.
• Efficiency: Detailed information and clear photos can answer many potential questions upfront, making the transaction process more efficient.

Tips for Creating a Great Post:

1. Be Honest: Always be honest about the condition and history of the typewriter.
2. Good Lighting: Take photos in good lighting to accurately represent the typewriter.
3. Be Thorough: It’s better to provide too much information than not enough.

Final Note:

Posts not adhering to these guidelines may be subject to removal to maintain the quality and trustworthiness of our community. We appreciate your efforts in making Typewriter_Swap a reliable and enjoyable place for all typewriter enthusiasts.

Simple Grading System For Typewriter Conditions

To streamline our buying, selling, and trading processes, we’re introducing a simple grading system for describing the condition of typewriters. This system aims to provide a clear and consistent way to communicate the state of a typewriter, helping both buyers and sellers make informed decisions. Here’s how it works:

Grading Scale:

1. Mint (M):

• Like new, in pristine condition.
• No signs of use or wear.
• Fully functional with all original parts.

2. Excellent (E):

• Very lightly used or well-maintained.
• Minimal signs of wear, no significant flaws.
• Fully functional, might have replaced parts that match original quality.

3. Good (G):

• Regularly used, with visible but minor signs of wear.
• Small imperfections or light cosmetic damage.
• Fully functional, possibly with some restored or replaced parts.

4. Fair (F):

• Clearly used with noticeable signs of wear.
• Cosmetic blemishes or mechanical imperfections that do not affect functionality.
• Mostly functional but may require minor repairs or servicing.

5. Poor (P):

• Heavy wear, damage, or aging.
• Significant cosmetic and/or mechanical issues.
• Requires repairs or servicing to be fully functional.

6. Parts/Repair (PR):

• Not functioning properly, major repairs needed.
• Often used for parts or needs significant restoration.
• Extensive wear, damage, or deterioration.

Guidelines for Using the Grading System:

• Be Honest: Accurately assess and describe the condition of your typewriter.
• Use as a Guide: This grading system is a general guide. Feel free to provide additional details about the condition in your post.
• Photographic Evidence: Support your grading with clear, detailed photographs showing the condition of the typewriter.

Why Use a Grading System?

• Clarity: Provides a straightforward way to describe the condition of a typewriter.
• Consistency: Helps standardize listings, making it easier to compare different offerings.
• Trust: Builds trust within the community by ensuring transparency in listings.

Final Thoughts:

We hope this grading system will enhance your experience on Typewriter_Swap, making it easier to buy, sell, and trade typewriters. Remember, the key to a successful transaction is clear and honest communication.

New User Flair System: Tracking Your Successful Transactions

We're excited to announce a new feature that recognizes and highlights your successful transactions within our community! To enhance trust and transparency, we're introducing a User Flair system that will reflect your history as a buyer and seller on Typewriter_Swap.

How It Works:

1. User Flair Format: Your flair will be formatted as "Buyer X / Seller Y".
2. Updating Flairs: After completing a sale or purchase, contact the mods with proof of the completed transaction.
3. Incrementing Numbers: For each successful transaction as a buyer or seller, we'll increase your flair number accordingly.
4. Verification Process: The mods will verify the transaction before updating your flair.

Benefits of User Flair System:

• Builds Trust: New users can easily identify experienced members, increasing confidence in transactions.
• Encourages Fair Play: A visible track record encourages honesty and reliability in dealings.
• Community Recognition: Regular contributors to the marketplace get recognized for their activity.

Guidelines for Users:

1. Complete Your Transaction: Ensure your sale or purchase is finalized and both parties are satisfied.
2. Contact the Mods: Send a message to the subreddit moderators with proof of your successful transaction. This can be a confirmation message from the other party, a receipt, or any other relevant documentation.
3. Flair Update: Once verified, we will update your flair to reflect your new transaction count.

Flair Integrity:

• Honesty is Key: Please provide truthful and accurate information when reporting transactions.
• Confidentiality: Ensure any sensitive information is kept confidential and not shared publicly.

Feedback and Suggestions:

Community Input: We welcome your feedback on this new system and are open to suggestions for improvement.

Final Note:

This User Flair system is part of our ongoing effort to create a safe, trustworthy, and vibrant community for typewriter enthusiasts. We believe it will make Typewriter_Swap an even more rewarding place to buy, sell, and trade typewriters.

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Rule-Violations and Fraud

Our subreddits, Typewriter_Swap and Typewriters, are dedicated to providing a safe, respectful, and enjoyable platform for typewriter enthusiasts to share, trade, and discuss typewriters. To maintain this environment, we have a strict policy against fraud and repeated rule violations. Here’s what you need to know:

Zero Tolerance for Fraud:

• Immediate Ban: Any member found committing fraud (e.g., scamming, selling counterfeit items, etc.) will be immediately and permanently banned from both Typewriter_Swap and Typewriter subreddits.
• Reporting Fraud: If you suspect fraudulent activity, please report it to the moderators immediately with any supporting evidence.

Three-Strike Rule for Other Violations:

• Rule Violations Include: Breaking subreddit rules, such as posting off-topic content, spamming, harassment, etc.
• Strike System: Members will receive a maximum of three strikes for rule violations.
• First Violation: Warning and explanation of the rule.
• Second Violation: Final warning with a temporary ban.
• Third Violation: Permanent ban from both Typewriter_Swap and Typewriter subreddits.

Consistency Across Subreddits:

• Unified Enforcement: A ban in one of these subreddits (Typewriter_Swap or Typewriter) due to fraud or reaching the three-strike limit will result in a ban in the other subreddit as well.
• Cross-Subreddit Communication: The moderation teams of both subreddits communicate and share information about bans and rule violations to ensure community safety and consistency.

Why This Policy?

• Trust and Safety: Our top priority is the trust and safety of our community members.
• Community Standards: We aim to maintain high standards of conduct and encourage responsible behavior.
• Fairness: This policy ensures that all members are treated equally and understand the consequences of their actions.

Your Role:

• Understand the Rules: Please familiarize yourself with the subreddit rules to avoid unintentional violations.
• Report Issues: Help us keep the community safe by reporting any suspicious or rule-breaking activity.
• Engage Positively: We encourage constructive, respectful, and helpful interactions within our community.

Final Thoughts:

We hope these guidelines will help maintain the integrity and positive atmosphere of our typewriter-focused communities. Our goal is not to penalize, but to create a safe and thriving environment for all enthusiasts. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation in upholding these standards.

Typewriter Buying Guide

Whether you're a seasoned collector or new to the world of typewriters, buying a typewriter can be a thrilling yet daunting task. This guide aims to provide you with essential tips and considerations to make your purchasing experience as rewarding as possible.

1. Know Your Purpose:

• Collecting vs. Using: Decide if you're buying a typewriter for collection purposes or for actual use. This will greatly influence the type and condition of typewriter you should look for.

2. Research Different Models:

• Popular Brands: Familiarize yourself with popular brands like Royal, Smith-Corona, Olympia, Hermes, etc.
• Era and Style: Different eras produced different styles. For instance, pre-WWII typewriters often have a more classic look, while post-WWII models tend to be more modern.

3. Check the Condition:

• Visual Inspection: Look for any physical damage, rust, or missing parts. The overall condition can affect value and usability.
• Mechanical Condition: Check if the typewriter is functional. Keys should move freely, and the carriage should slide smoothly.

4. Understand Pricing:

• Market Value: Prices can vary widely based on the model, condition, and rarity. Do some market research to understand the going rates.
• Budget Accordingly: Set a budget based on your research and stick to it to avoid overspending.

5. Where to Buy:

• Online Platforms: Subreddits like ours, eBay, Etsy, and other online marketplaces can be great sources.
• Local Sources: Antique stores, flea markets, and garage sales might offer hidden gems.

6. Ask Questions:

• Seller Interaction: Don't hesitate to ask the seller questions about the typewriter’s history, condition, repairs, etc.
• Get Pictures: Request clear and detailed photos, especially if buying online.

7. Consider Additional Costs:

• Repairs and Maintenance: Older typewriters might need servicing or repairs, which can add to the total cost.
• Shipping: Factor in shipping costs, especially for heavy or delicate machines.

8. Safety in Transactions:

• Payment Methods: Use secure payment methods and avoid transactions that seem risky.
• Record Keeping: Keep a record of all communications and transactions.

9. Join the Community:

• Learn and Share: Engage with typewriter communities to learn from experienced collectors and enthusiasts.

10. Enjoy the Process:

• Patience is Key: Finding the right typewriter can take time. Enjoy the journey of discovering and learning about these fascinating machines.

Final Thoughts

Buying a typewriter is not just a purchase; it's an adventure into history and mechanics. Whether for typing, displaying, or just as a piece of history, each typewriter has a story. We hope this guide helps you in your quest to find that perfect typewriter.

Happy hunting, and remember to share your finds and experiences with our community over at r/typewriters!

- u/Lost_Philosophy_

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This is an example post.

Hello! I want to sell my 1965 Smith Corona Classic. It’s a manual typewriter that is in good condition. All the components work as intended and has a smooth operation.

This was purchased off eBay from a gentleman in Wisconsin and needed some repairing. I cleaned and refurbished it myself. The issues it arrived with: stuck/gummed up typebars, dirt and grime internally, and the paper feed rollers were not working correctly. After a thorough clean it solved most issues. However the paper feed rollers required extra material in order to function properly (vinyl electrical tape wrapped around the feed rollers solved this issue).

There is some cosmetic damage which I have highlighted in the photos. I also want to mention that the paper release lever seemed to have snapped in the past and super glued on at an odd position by a previous owner.

All in all this is a great manual typewriter that’s fully functional and ready to go! I’m willing to meet locally here in Texas (PM me for my location) or I can ship it out at your expense. I can probably calculate shipping fees if you are serious about purchasing.

I will only accept payment through PayPal Goods & Services as it provides protection for both the seller and buyer incase an issue arises or if there is fraud.

You can see the photo of the serial number but here it is typed out: 5X 115303.

Please ask any questions! Thank you for reading.