I have been wanting someone to do comparisons of the 50's and 60's versions and you just nailed it! I have a 1963 5AX version too and it is one of my absolute favorites. I also have two 5X series Classics from 1964 which are identical to the Sterling 5AX only that it has a carriage lock and it has a smaller dainty sounding bell. I like the Sterling version better because it has a very BIG LOUD BELL.
The ingenuity of the hinged key levers, which keep the travel of the keys on a (roughly) up-and-down path, and keeps the keytops (roughly) parallel with the table top make these machines wonderfully comfortable to type on. Terrific and thorough comparison here. Thanks!
On your 1949 Sterling, I suspect that the small “carriage release lever” on the right hand front of the carriage is simply a handy yet precise carriage-centering mechanism that you use not while typing but rather only just prior to putting the writer into its case - easy peasy.
Your new-to-you '60s Sterling seems mechanically the same as my late '50s Silent Super. Mine has three rollers to hold the paper down and also a cool custom paint job I gave it. The original sea-foam green lid, cleaned and clear-coated, makes a nice contrast with satin white lower panels. The only thing which doesn't really work on it is the ribbon auto-reverse.
I was lucky enough to buy a blue 1964 5AX Sterling as my first machine for $10 on Marketplace. It was very clean and functional, just some cosmetic dings (which I don't mind at all - gives character). I've been spoiled. Nothing else has come close to both features and feel until I found a late model 5 Silent-Super this week. Now the only thing separating how I choose between the two is the fact the Sterling was my first typer. I feel they have all the same features, all that I could want, they just look a little different. Definitely with you that the 5 Series are stars. I'm going to buy and clean/fix any of them that cross my path cheap enough because they're just too lovely...
I have my dad’s 1950s Sterling. I just noticed it the other day. I don’t think it’s been touched since about 1983 when he got his first word processor. There’s still a little bit of ribbon in there (again, from 1983), and it still has a bit of juice in it. Probably needs a good cleaning and conditioning and it will be god as new. I am old enough that I had a typewriter as a graduation gift from high school. Long gone. I don’t even remember what kind it was. I am so happy, after forty years of Apple and PC, to rediscover analog. The waitlist at our area typewriter store is months long, so I just ordered a new ribbon and I’ll limp along until they can take it in.
The carriage release lever that you talk about at 9:57, it’s purpose is to center the platen so that the type writer can appropriately fit into the box.
I have a several machines of this vintage, and I really like them all. About the only complaint I have is that the return is a bit grindy and not silenced. You notice this more on some than others. They are also just a tiny bit loose compared to an Olympia or Hermes, but that makes them comfortable. Think jeans vs a suit. They are fairly rare here in Oz so I tend to snap up any reasonable one I find and keep them all. Yes, I have a problem too!
I have a Super Sterling (actually my first typewriter) in the Galaxy(?) body style with the sliding cover. It'd be perfect if I could just get the ribbon basket off to fix a screw. Reminds me a lot of my Classic 12, but smaller and more portable. A lot of the guts are the same, and I used the Sterling in fixing my Classic 12's ribbon advancing gear (thanks again for your help on that).
Yes! I own the Smith Corona SUPER. Beautiful machine and works great. Mi will let you know what year later but right now I am cooking.😊it’s a 1953. Purchased on eBay September 16, 2022. It looks like new and works like new. I also have he same Smith Corona Sterling in blue with both platen knobs. Again, like new! Love the Smith Corona Typewriters.
That's a keyset tabulator on the right side. This means that you can set and clear the tabs using the keys on the front of the machine rather than having to turn the machine around and manually set the tabs on the tab rack.
Love your 60’s Sterling. There is something about that body style that is very appealing 😊. Where do you look for a platen knob? I noticed it was missing right away but I’ve missed that same thing with one or two of mine 🙄
We loved this video,wife enjoyed the pink nail polish in the typing test and we both enjoyed the pink back lighting it fits your love of barbie typewriter. Did you go see the Barbie movie? Did you take a Barbie typewriter with you to the movie😂. Thanks for a wonderful video. My wife has a 5AX that is barbie pink with pink ribbon.
Ah this is how it is for me each time as well when i find a typewriter somewhere for next top nothing. x3 I just can't leave it behind and have to take it home to get to know it better and just can't stop appreciating the timeless beauty and elegance. it's a shame Smith Coronas are next to non existent here in Germany and really seem to be only popular in North America. Over here in Germany we do however have an abundance of Olympia, Brother, Triumph Adler models and of course a lot of east german models like the good old Erika or the models produced by Groma.
Great comparison, also yeah your 5 series (tan baby) is missing that side panel piece and also the little tab arm to help release the platen! Those are such nice things to have for functionality and tidyness. Ive been cleaning and doing lots of repairs on my second sc 5 series silent and its been very fun, i like how you mention how intuitive these machines are, they so are! Although, having duane of pheonix typewriter is pretty wonderful in the repairs and troubleshooting part of acquinting myself with new most likely stiff and banged up machines.
As others have said, the Super is the Canadian version of the Silent-Super. You'll only find it in the tweed case as the Holiday case was only available in the US. There's also a special grey paint colour (it's really nice) that can only be found on the Super.
I have a '58 Sterling and according to the manual, only the Silent Super of this period has the fast platen release so that might explain why your '49 model doesn't have it either. It's easy enough to remove though, just a lot more of a manual process.
I have a '53 Sterling. The platen on the brown 5 series is actually held in place with a lock. You need to loosen the small nut and rotate the little metal lock up out of the way. then you can lift our the platen. And echoing what someone else said, there is in fact a cover that should go on that side.
The 50s Sient Super does have that carriage relase lever. Your 5 series is missing a cover there, but I don't know if the Sterling featured such a lever
You wouldn’t be able to depress the keys with a mechanical keyboard. They do make kits to interface your typewriter with your computer so that the keys press down on sensors
This is a good topic, comparing a machine with its follower. What were the intentions of a company to change the modell ? Of course the market, what sells better. But on the other hand, i think, starting end of the 60's the wish to earn more money out of the product, even to give the product a limited expectation in live. This is very good to see in the Olympia machines, it starts with the use of more and more plastic.Sure, by that the machines became lighter. So for heavy writing i would prefer the older version, forged out of a block, for travelling and just some light stuff to write, there might be a newer version sufficient.BTW.. i love these Smith-Corona machines, nearly not to get in Germany 😢
One consistent thing I noticed in videos of the 5-series, my own 5TSilent-Super and 5TE Electric is a narrow SCRATCH ON TOP from the Carriage Return Handle. The early '60s handles appear to move Up and Out(also looking more "modern, (like a "fin" on '59-'63 Cadillacs), avoiding a scratch. Your views/insights on this?
Sarah, At 10:17, you can remove the platen, but only after a couple steps. Duane explains it in a video better than I could write here: ruclips.net/video/0zRTZE0whdA/видео.html Cheers, Daniel
I currently have a 4 series Silent, a 50s Sterling, Silent, & Silent-super. Then a Classic 12 (I think that’s the 6 series). I thought the “Super” was marketed in Canada or outside of the U.S. You are definitely missing the cover on the right side. My Sterling of this time period does not have the removable platen. The leaver on the front right of the carriage is a centering lock to put it in the case. At least on mine, you can lock it to center (but it doesn’t lock it well)
I rather have the 1930s to the 40s only version of typewriters maybe the 20s as I’m a history person who enjoys that type of era during world war 2 and that my grandfather served in that time period
You know how sometimes you don’t know if someone is American or Canadian until they tell you? Well the SUPER is kinda like that; feature for feature, it’s identical to a SILENT SUPER. Only on the back it says Made In Canada. Go figure.
@@JustMyTypewriter Right? And here it is, this is the one I bought. I spent hours researching why a SILENT SUPER would be just a SUPER in Canada, but I could never uncover why. As they say, it’s a mystery… i.etsystatic.com/33151728/r/il/f84758/3605998272/il_794xN.3605998272_hme1.jpg
@@JustMyTypewriterI’m sorry, Sarah, but my Canadian “SUPER” theory was apparently super incorrect! Someone just posted a 1953 “SUPER” for sale on Vintage Typewriter Marketplace, and their description says this was the top-of-the-line model in ‘53, and that S/C added additional sound deadening shortly thereafter, when it was renamed the “SILENT SUPER”. Well there’s a picture of the back, and sure enough, it says “Made in USA”! So while “SUPERS” were, indeed, made in Canada, some were obviously made in the states. Sorry for the confusion!
I have been wanting someone to do comparisons of the 50's and 60's versions and you just nailed it! I have a 1963 5AX version too and it is one of my absolute favorites. I also have two 5X series Classics from 1964 which are identical to the Sterling 5AX only that it has a carriage lock and it has a smaller dainty sounding bell. I like the Sterling version better because it has a very BIG LOUD BELL.
The ingenuity of the hinged key levers, which keep the travel of the keys on a (roughly) up-and-down path, and keeps the keytops (roughly) parallel with the table top make these machines wonderfully comfortable to type on.
Terrific and thorough comparison here. Thanks!
On your 1949 Sterling, I suspect that the small “carriage release lever” on the right hand front of the carriage is simply a handy yet precise carriage-centering mechanism that you use not while typing but rather only just prior to putting the writer into its case - easy peasy.
You're correct, that's what it is. Came to the comments to say that but you beat me.
Your new-to-you '60s Sterling seems mechanically the same as my late '50s Silent Super. Mine has three rollers to hold the paper down and also a cool custom paint job I gave it. The original sea-foam green lid, cleaned and clear-coated, makes a nice contrast with satin white lower panels. The only thing which doesn't really work on it is the ribbon auto-reverse.
I was lucky enough to buy a blue 1964 5AX Sterling as my first machine for $10 on Marketplace. It was very clean and functional, just some cosmetic dings (which I don't mind at all - gives character). I've been spoiled. Nothing else has come close to both features and feel until I found a late model 5 Silent-Super this week. Now the only thing separating how I choose between the two is the fact the Sterling was my first typer. I feel they have all the same features, all that I could want, they just look a little different.
Definitely with you that the 5 Series are stars. I'm going to buy and clean/fix any of them that cross my path cheap enough because they're just too lovely...
I have my dad’s 1950s Sterling. I just noticed it the other day. I don’t think it’s been touched since about 1983 when he got his first word processor. There’s still a little bit of ribbon in there (again, from 1983), and it still has a bit of juice in it. Probably needs a good cleaning and conditioning and it will be god as new. I am old enough that I had a typewriter as a graduation gift from high school. Long gone. I don’t even remember what kind it was. I am so happy, after forty years of Apple and PC, to rediscover analog. The waitlist at our area typewriter store is months long, so I just ordered a new ribbon and I’ll limp along until they can take it in.
The carriage release lever that you talk about at 9:57, it’s purpose is to center the platen so that the type writer can appropriately fit into the box.
I have a several machines of this vintage, and I really like them all. About the only complaint I have is that the return is a bit grindy and not silenced. You notice this more on some than others. They are also just a tiny bit loose compared to an Olympia or Hermes, but that makes them comfortable. Think jeans vs a suit. They are fairly rare here in Oz so I tend to snap up any reasonable one I find and keep them all. Yes, I have a problem too!
Fun. I am also find myself going back to smith corona sterling. I have a ‘47 4a and because of your videos looking for a 5
Loved the vid keep It strong Shara 😊🎉
I have the gray Sterling 5AX model, I think it's a late 1963. I just bought it and cleaned it up. I love it. It seems sturdy.
I have a Super Sterling (actually my first typewriter) in the Galaxy(?) body style with the sliding cover. It'd be perfect if I could just get the ribbon basket off to fix a screw. Reminds me a lot of my Classic 12, but smaller and more portable. A lot of the guts are the same, and I used the Sterling in fixing my Classic 12's ribbon advancing gear (thanks again for your help on that).
Yes! I own the Smith Corona SUPER. Beautiful machine and works great. Mi will let you know what year later but right now I am cooking.😊it’s a 1953. Purchased on eBay September 16, 2022. It looks like new and works like new. I also have he same Smith Corona Sterling in blue with both platen knobs. Again, like new! Love the Smith Corona Typewriters.
how much did it cost on ebay back then?
That's a keyset tabulator on the right side. This means that you can set and clear the tabs using the keys on the front of the machine rather than having to turn the machine around and manually set the tabs on the tab rack.
Alpine Blue Series 5 Super Silent! Best! You will fall in love and drop all those other Series 5.
Love your 60’s Sterling. There is something about that body style that is very appealing 😊. Where do you look for a platen knob? I noticed it was missing right away but I’ve missed that same thing with one or two of mine 🙄
I bought one from a professional repair tech!
@@JustMyTypewriter once we are settled in the new house will have to ask for contact info. Although I follow quite a few 😊
We loved this video,wife enjoyed the pink nail polish in the typing test and we both enjoyed the pink back lighting it fits your love of barbie typewriter. Did you go see the Barbie movie? Did you take a Barbie typewriter with you to the movie😂. Thanks for a wonderful video. My wife has a 5AX that is barbie pink with pink ribbon.
Nice Barbie reference!!!
Ah this is how it is for me each time as well when i find a typewriter somewhere for next top nothing. x3 I just can't leave it behind and have to take it home to get to know it better and just can't stop appreciating the timeless beauty and elegance. it's a shame Smith Coronas are next to non existent here in Germany and really seem to be only popular in North America. Over here in Germany we do however have an abundance of Olympia, Brother, Triumph Adler models and of course a lot of east german models like the good old Erika or the models produced by Groma.
Great comparison, also yeah your 5 series (tan baby) is missing that side panel piece and also the little tab arm to help release the platen! Those are such nice things to have for functionality and tidyness. Ive been cleaning and doing lots of repairs on my second sc 5 series silent and its been very fun, i like how you mention how intuitive these machines are, they so are! Although, having duane of pheonix typewriter is pretty wonderful in the repairs and troubleshooting part of acquinting myself with new most likely stiff and banged up machines.
As others have said, the Super is the Canadian version of the Silent-Super. You'll only find it in the tweed case as the Holiday case was only available in the US. There's also a special grey paint colour (it's really nice) that can only be found on the Super.
Yes! I have a Canadian Super this is true!
Got my wife a 5 series Sterling, Alpine Blue, TWDB dates it to 1960. The right platen knob was loose, tightened the set screw.
I have a '58 Sterling and according to the manual, only the Silent Super of this period has the fast platen release so that might explain why your '49 model doesn't have it either. It's easy enough to remove though, just a lot more of a manual process.
I have a '53 Sterling. The platen on the brown 5 series is actually held in place with a lock. You need to loosen the small nut and rotate the little metal lock up out of the way. then you can lift our the platen. And echoing what someone else said, there is in fact a cover that should go on that side.
I have the blue one with the original leather case they came with it
The 50s Sient Super does have that carriage relase lever. Your 5 series is missing a cover there, but I don't know if the Sterling featured such a lever
I feel like the 5x type in a more similar way to the 6s (galaxies, etc) than they do the 5As, it's like a blend between the two. Slightly different.
Would it be possible to use a modern custom mechanical keyboard and hook it up to some electronic typewriter?
You wouldn’t be able to depress the keys with a mechanical keyboard. They do make kits to interface your typewriter with your computer so that the keys press down on sensors
This is a good topic, comparing a machine with its follower. What were the intentions of a company to change the modell ? Of course the market, what sells better. But on the other hand, i think, starting end of the 60's the wish to earn more money out of the product, even to give the product a limited expectation in live. This is very good to see in the Olympia machines, it starts with the use of more and more plastic.Sure, by that the machines became lighter. So for heavy writing i would prefer the older version, forged out of a block, for travelling and just some light stuff to write, there might be a newer version sufficient.BTW.. i love these Smith-Corona machines, nearly not to get in Germany 😢
How about durability? Did any of the mechanical parts go from metal to plastic in the switch from the 5 to 5AX?
No- still metal interior
One consistent thing I noticed in videos of the 5-series, my own 5TSilent-Super and 5TE Electric is a narrow SCRATCH ON TOP from the Carriage Return Handle. The early '60s handles appear to move Up and Out(also looking more "modern, (like a "fin" on '59-'63 Cadillacs), avoiding a scratch.
Your views/insights on this?
I know that adjustments can play a large role in that. I find the lever on the 5AX feels like it's lower
Sarah,
At 10:17, you can remove the platen, but only after a couple steps.
Duane explains it in a video better than I could write here:
ruclips.net/video/0zRTZE0whdA/видео.html
Cheers,
Daniel
I appreciate the feedback!
I currently have a 4 series Silent, a 50s Sterling, Silent, & Silent-super. Then a Classic 12 (I think that’s the 6 series). I thought the “Super” was marketed in Canada or outside of the U.S.
You are definitely missing the cover on the right side. My Sterling of this time period does not have the removable platen.
The leaver on the front right of the carriage is a centering lock to put it in the case. At least on mine, you can lock it to center (but it doesn’t lock it well)
The lever is not meant to lock the carriage completely, just to center it and hold it there while you put the machine in its case.
I wanted to know what type of typewriter I got from a yard sale it says Royal and it has green keys
NEVERMIND YOU HAVE IT IN YOUR OTHER VIDEO THAT YOU POSTED 12 DAYS AGO
You keep saying you aren’t sure if there is a 5T Super - there is, I have one in Sapphire Grey. Has the tab set clear keys and bunny ears.
My understanding is that it was a Canadian specific release!
I rather have the 1930s to the 40s only version of typewriters maybe the 20s as I’m a history person who enjoys that type of era during world war 2 and that my grandfather served in that time period
I just ordered a Smith Corona sterling 1946 typewriter
Send me the platen knob you do have and I'll make you another! dad.
Good news is I found one! But I might get you to make me back ups
I’m not sure left and right are identical?
You know how sometimes you don’t know if someone is American or Canadian until they tell you? Well the SUPER is kinda like that; feature for feature, it’s identical to a SILENT SUPER. Only on the back it says Made In Canada.
Go figure.
Thank you for telling me! It genuinely felt like such a mystery
@@JustMyTypewriter Right? And here it is, this is the one I bought. I spent hours researching why a SILENT SUPER would be just a SUPER in Canada, but I could never uncover why. As they say, it’s a mystery…
i.etsystatic.com/33151728/r/il/f84758/3605998272/il_794xN.3605998272_hme1.jpg
@@JustMyTypewriterI’m sorry, Sarah, but my Canadian “SUPER” theory was apparently super incorrect! Someone just posted a 1953 “SUPER” for sale on Vintage Typewriter Marketplace, and their description says this was the top-of-the-line model in ‘53, and that S/C added additional sound deadening shortly thereafter, when it was renamed the “SILENT SUPER”. Well there’s a picture of the back, and sure enough, it says “Made in USA”! So while “SUPERS” were, indeed, made in Canada, some were obviously made in the states. Sorry for the confusion!
@@Saboda53 I appreciate the update! Now I'll have to investigate more!