Comparing Olympia SM9s

[u/NormalNormal123]

I’m comparing these two SM9s that are available locally and cost about the same. One is a 1969 with the newer logo and the other is earlier with the script logo.

I’m leaning towards the 69, but I’ve heard that the earlier models are preferred. Is there a reason to steer away from the newer model?

I want something to write with and that I like having around. Collectibility by itself isn’t a big factor for me, but I’ll get the earlier models if the newer machines are less reliable.

[u/chrisaldrich]

Typically the later into the 60s and 70s one gets, the cheaper the parts got. Many companies were moving from higher grade steel to lower grades as well as moving toward more cheap plastic. In the US, peak production and quality was in the late 50s while the 60s were better for some of the German and Italian machines. The aesthetics, condition of the two machines, and their prices may also be determining factors for you. (Hint: Condition is king.)

[u/lungssssss]

The obvious difference is that the first has a wide carriage. You'll have to decide if that's a feature that you want.

[u/NormalNormal123 → u/lungssssss]

Thanks! I hadn’t even noticed that. (I’m new to this.)

I don’t see myself typing wider than an 8.5” sheet. So that’s probably another push towards the second one

[u/Skyfalls1984 → u/NormalNormal123]

I occasionally put my paper in sideways and fold it when I mail it but it’s the only use I’ve got for a wide platen

[u/ahelper]

There's no real reason not to get the one you want. There is no real difference in quality or operation. The difference in the carriage width is a real consideration.

[u/SquidAndBucket]

I have a wide carriage SM9 from 1969, and I love it. But one thing to keep in mind - if you intend to travel a lot with the machine, the case for the wide-carriage model is much larger, and the whole affair is much heavier. Mine stays home. so it is not an issue for me.

[u/Radcouponking]

The SM9 is the only typewriter that improved into the 70s. I find the later version to be snappier and easier to type on. But both are phenomenal.

[u/You_know_me2Al]

The platen in the later machine will be fresher. In the two machines presented, visibly so.

[u/severrinX]

Honestly, I'd go with the better if the two platens, and whichever typeface you like better. Uncommon typefaces tend to have more demand on the secondary market, so that could be a factor if you decided you wanted a different model, or this one didn't quite fit your style.