Who Buys Old Typewriters? My Experience Finding the Right Buyers

When I first stumbled upon an old typewriter at my local charity shop, I wondered if anyone would actually be interested in buying it.

To my surprise, there’s a whole community of people who are passionate about these vintage machines.

Whether you’ve inherited a typewriter or picked one up at a car boot sale, knowing who buys old typewriters can help you find the perfect buyer.

In this blog post, I’ll share my insights into the typewriter-buying market and how you can successfully sell your old machine.

Types of People Who Buy Old Typewriters

Over time, I’ve discovered that there are a few key groups of people who buy old typewriters.

Here’s a breakdown of those types of buyers:

• Collectors: These are individuals who have a passion for vintage and antique items. Collectors often seek out specific brands, models, or rare typewriters to add to their personal collections.

• Writers and enthusiasts: Some writers prefer the tactile experience of using a typewriter over a computer. These buyers look for machines that are in working condition so they can actually use them.

• Decorators and interior designers: Typewriters have a unique aesthetic appeal, making them popular as decorative items in homes, offices, or even cafés.

• Restorers and hobbyists: Some people buy old typewriters with the intent to restore them. They enjoy the process of bringing these machines back to life, often reselling them for a profit once restored.

• Vintage shops and dealers: Certain vintage shops or online sellers buy old typewriters to resell. They usually look for machines in good condition or ones that can be easily refurbished.

Where to Find Buyers for Old Typewriters

If you’re wondering where to sell your old typewriter, here are my top recommendations:

• eBay: A great platform to reach collectors and typewriter enthusiasts.

• Etsy: Ideal for selling vintage items, Etsy has a large audience of buyers who appreciate the charm of old typewriters.

• Local vintage and antique shops: They’re always on the lookout for unique pieces to resell.

• Facebook Marketplace: For a quick local sale, Facebook Marketplace can connect you with buyers in your area, which helps avoid the hassle of shipping.

What Makes a Typewriter More Attractive to Buyers?

From my experience, not all typewriters are equally appealing to buyers.

Here’s what typically draws attention:

• Brand and model: Popular brands like Underwood, Remington, Royal, and Hermes tend to attract more buyers.

• Condition: A typewriter in working condition will usually fetch a higher price. However, even non-working machines can sell if they’re rare or have restoration potential.

• Age: Older typewriters, particularly those from the early 1900s, are more desirable due to their rarity.

• Design and aesthetics: Unique designs, colours, or features (like portable typewriters) are especially sought after by decorators and designers.

• Accessories: Including original cases, instruction manuals, or ribbon spools can add value to your listing.

How to Sell Your Old Typewriter Successfully

Here are some tips I’ve learned for selling old typewriters successfully:

• Take high-quality photos: Good photos are key when selling vintage items. I always take pictures from multiple angles, showing both the full typewriter and close-ups of key details.

• Write a detailed description: I make sure to include the brand, model, age, and condition of the typewriter. If it’s not in working condition, I’m honest about any flaws or missing parts.

• Research similar listings: Before listing a typewriter for sale, I check what similar models are selling for. This helps me set a competitive price.

• Highlight rarity or uniqueness: If your typewriter has a unique design, is a limited edition model, or has a special historical connection, be sure to highlight these details in your listing.

• Be patient: Typewriters can take some time to sell, especially if they’re rare or more expensive. I’ve learned that patience often pays off when it comes to finding the right buyer.

What to Expect When Selling an Old Typewriter

When selling typewriters, I’ve found that prices can vary widely.

Here are some factors that influence the selling price:

• Rarity: A rare model or limited edition typewriter can command a higher price, especially if it’s in good condition.

• Condition: A fully functional typewriter with no missing parts will sell for more than one that’s rusted or broken.

• Market demand: Typewriter values fluctuate based on market trends, so sometimes certain models become trendy or sought after, driving up prices.

• Shipping costs: If you’re selling online, factor in the cost of shipping, especially if the typewriter is heavy or requires extra packaging.

Conclusion: Finding the Right Buyer for Your Old Typewriter

If you’ve got an old typewriter sitting around, there’s a good chance that someone out there is looking for it.

Whether it’s a collector, writer, or decorator, knowing who buys old typewriters can help you find the perfect match for your vintage machine.

With the right approach, you can turn that old typewriter into cash and give it a new home where it will be appreciated for years to come.