Underwood 4-Bank Model F
Portable Typewriter with Case
Serial No. F732692
ca 1934
Approximate Dimensions (Case):
5 1/2 inches high
12 inches wide
12 inches deep
This vintage Underwood Model F portable typewriter has glass keys, is a nice compact size, and is in good working condition. The serial number F732692 indicates the machine was manufactured in 1934. The typewriter is a very glossy black--much glossier than I was able to capture in the pictures!
Condition: The typewriter is in excellent used vintage condition. All the glass keys are present with no missing letters or cracks. A few keys have stains. The keys all work (see sample); the letter "r" tends to stick. The machine definitely needs a new ribbon. Margins and tab stops work. The platen is in excellent condition and turns easily, and the carriage and space bar work properly.
The paint is in remarkably good condition. There is a sticky spot on one side of the machine, probably the remains of a sticker or label. The decals are all in very good condition.
The case is not in very good condition. It latches properly, but the original handle is missing and part of the covering on one side is torn. However, the case has done its job of protecting the typewriter all these years!
This typewriter seems to have been cleaned fairly recently, but could still use a good cleaning and oiling! It has a ribbon, but the ribbon is pretty dried out so a new one is needed.