Thanks for taking the time to produce this video, I enjoyed it very much. Probably a labor of love on your part. I happened upon a Hermes 3000 in a local up scale second hand store here in Orrville Ohio. It was calling me from across the room in its unique splendor. I think we paid around $50 for it, maybe a little less. Serial #31798XX, made in 1959 per the Typewriter Database. The machine is in almost mint condition with the original small brush, the original manual and full color fold out guide for quick reference. The wife was getting her first experience with it today and has been talking about it non stop. At present I have 13 typewirters ranging from a 1926 Royal 10 up to a 1969 Royal Safari DeLuxe . I do not remember when I started to accumulate these. It has been at least a dozen years. Don't think I'm done yet. There was another member of the Marx Brothers family who wandered off from Groucho, Chico, Harpo, Gummo and Zeppo. His name was Typo and he just wasn't funny. Yeah I made that up and it's not funny either.
I don't know why but I enjoy watching this video from time to time. The Hermes is near mint, which is nice. I use it as a gold standard to measure others by. Still have yet to pick one up. The Olivetti I bought, types so well I didn't have to buy any others. Your voice reminds me of some guys I knew in Iowa City who came from Burlington, IA. Heh. Django in the background. Good stuff.
We have a radio talk show in the UK call Desert Island Discs broadcast on BBC Radio 4. Each week a guest, called a "castaway" during the programme, is asked to choose recordings (usually, but not always, music) a book and a luxury item that they would take if they were to be cast away on a desert island, this week Tom Hanks was on the show, his chosen luxury item was a Hermes 3000 typewriter and some paper. So you collectors are in goodcompany :)
Ha! that's pretty cool. From what I've heard about Mr Hanks and his collection, we have very similar taste in typewriters; a well-tuned Hermes 3000 is one of my favorite things in the world :)
I enjoyed your video on the 3000! A. Would love to see all a video series on this typewriter for all its controls. B. Like how to set the margins and all the keys on the top row. C. Going over the instruction manual and extra tips that fill in the blanks for a new audience that are not used to manual stuff. D. Any idea of where to buy used parts like the nice case you show here. I have a series one that needs a new lock for the case, but a decked out one like the one shown here would be nice. I also bought a type two from 1961 and it runs so smoothly, it is such a candy for the eyes as well as the hands, then, the sounds of keys makes it complete, till you hear the nice ring of the end of the line. I can see why you might take it to bed because as you close your eyes you might think of something to write :-)
I share your appreciation of this "Cadillac" although, personally, I think of it as a BMW 325. It corners better than the Dilla, has euro style, and is pretty compact without leaving anything out. Most of all, it is a style ikon. When I am tired and sore eyed I talk to it and engage in a bit of a fondle. So nice...
+James Jacocks HA!! i know what you mean - the tactile curves & gentle caress of my H3k tends to make bad days better & good days greater - and it's totally a sensual thing(not quite sexual, but almost). I've been yelled at more than once by my lady for bringing the Hermes to bed with me.
Hi. I'm here looking for some help remuving an Hermes Baby 1948 platen. I can't take off the left side knob. Do I need to turn it clockwise? Do I need to unscrew the screw at the centre of the knob? Thanks. Pasquale.
Hello TJ: I'm torn between the Hermes 3000 and the Olympia SM3 for the typewriter I'd like to purchase. One of essential features I'm looking for is a machine that types in the Courier typeface. The Olympia SM3's that I have viewed on eBay have this, but I have noticed that not all of the Hermes 3000's that I have viewed do. Is this due to any differences in the Hermes 3000 models or year(s) of manufacture? How would I be able to distinguish the typefaces among machines for which the sellers do not provide photos of typing demos?
Considering the wide array of typefaces available on both machines, you really need to be able to examine the type either by a photo of the slugs or a type-sample photo. there's no other way. if you are weighing between those two, you should consider your key layout as well as the feel of the machines. SM3's have a right handed backspace, where the H3k has a left handed one(unless you're a freak like me & figure out how to reverse the position & operation of the H3k's backspace/tab keys...which ain't easy) As far as feel goes, YMMV but for the most part the Hermes offers an easier transition machine for someone used to computer keyboards; when well tuned their action is light, crisp and snappy. The SM3, on the other hand, rewards a skilled typist with a solid typing experience which feels less crisp but more fluid than the Hermes. How big are your hands? If you have large fingers, the Hermes will be more forgiving than the SM3. My personal favorite between those is the H3k. (my current daily writer alternates between a 196X H3k, a '47 Streamliner, and a Lettera 32) My honest to goodness for real recommendation? get three of each, figure it out later ;)
Nice video, thanks. I was looking for a review on an Alpina SK24 but found no Alpinas on your channel. What do you think of it? There are plenty of these Hermes here in Zurich, so might go for this one instead- but have read online that the Alpina is wonderful. Thanks for any advice!
I picked up the first version without the 2 holes on front the other day. But no bottom cover or feet like yours, did they come with that or am I missing something ?
I have a 3000 on the way. It is a 1965 model, and has what is known as the Techno-Elite typeface. (Yes, the margin ruler on the bail does go to 120.) I have the same typeface on my Rocket 1970. Personally, as opposed to all the Royal typewriters I have, the Techno-Elite typeface, to me, is a refreshing change.
I own a Hermes 3000 and it's in great condition. But the carriage is locked and I can't get it unlocked with the unlock lever. Any suggestions on how to proceed?
sorry for the late response - overlooked your comment :( unfortunately, the problem could be several different things... -the small cradle latch that the carriage release actually interacts with can get hung if it is dirty; it is at the bottom of the carriage on the end of the right side. if it's sluggish, clean it with mineral spirits. -the margin system could be malfunctioning or simply set to the center, which is very common if the machine has been in the possession of someone who does not know how to operate it properly since folks wanting to move the carriage tend naturally to grab for the margin lever rather than pushing the button above it; if your margins are malfunctioning, find a repairman site.xavier.edu/polt/typewriters/tw-repair.html -the escapement/backspace could be hung. jiggle it, wiggle it, but don't force anything to move! shine a light in one end of the carriage, and look down into the other; check for debris, watch for movement as you work the carriage lock and the carriage release mechanisms. if it's not obvious, find a repairman! I hope you get it working - these are fabulous machines. Best of luck!
Ah, thank you TJ! It's a beautiful machine. Your description of it being the "Cadillac of typewriters" only makes it more illuminating as I search for just the right one.
Ha! Stencil setting. The ultimate test of one's capability with a manual typewriter was doing a mimeograph wax stencil master. Even the slightest flaws in uneven stroke were magnified. For those who don't know, the mimeograph machine was a way of printing large runs of newsletters, etc., without having to do typesetting on a Linotype machine . As the key hit the master it would make an impression that the ink flowed through when the printing process started. The heavier the stroke, the more the ink flowed. Too heavy, and it would punch a hole in the master that would make a big ugly spot instead of a letter. Print 100 newsletters and 100 readers got to see every flaw in your typing.
So if I might ask, what's so special about these? I'm new to typewriters, but I've read enough to see that the Hermes 3000 ranks pretty highly among more seasoned collectors and enthusiasts. And just out of curiosity, what's the going rate for one of these if I wanted to get one for myself? Cheers Lads, Brendan O.
I personally think most of the appeal is due to the styling(super curvy, finger-friendly, and utterly unique in a subtle way) but the excellent performance, quality design & overall superb Swiss construction certainly play a part :) you should be able to pick up an un-restored somewhat functional H3k for between $80-175 depending on how patient you are; for a fully serviced machine, you can expect to pay between $350-750 depending on the level of restoration(which SHOULD include fresh rubber on the platen - Hermes platens are notorious for being harder than stone) but the trick is actually finding one that's been restored; there aren't many folks left out there who can properly tune one of these, and this definitely is not a beginner's machine to tinker with. Totally worth the trouble to find, though - they're amazing machines!
How much did it cost? I’m thinking of purchasing one, but I want to be familiar with the average cost just in case someone tries to ripped me off on eBay
Hi there, do you have a spare carriage return lever for a lettera 22 for sale? Also my lettera 22 has a little problem with the vertical alignment of the letter "a", which prints a bit higher than the other letters, reckon that might be fixed somehow?
the vertical alignment of the 'a' is likely a result of a slipping typeslug, either currently loose or improperly repaired. it's possible to re-solder a typeslug without a jig, but it's by no means recommended; you are more likely to be happy with the current print than what you would end up with after 5 hours with a soldering iron roasting your fingertips. If the typeslug isn't loose, then change nothing & enjoy the idiosyncrasies which make each machine special; if it's loose, then send me a message & i can point you in the right direction for fixing it yourself.
I've had a couple Media 3's over the years, and I like them very much. Such wonderful typers! the trimmed down controls & mechanisms make them a bit more lightweight than the 3000, but otherwise they're identical - so excellent!
download the owners manual from site.xavier.edu/polt/typewriters/tw-manuals.html and just follow the directions :) its somewhat similar to Royal's Magic Margin arrangement, only better! It's rather fluid once you get the hang of it. Be sure to move the margin by moving the carriage while the lever is engaged, NOT by snapping it to position - much, much safer for the paper bail margin indicator ribbon & spring.
Hi Two comments, you should be on radio, you have a nice voice :o) and secondly, I have a Hermes 3000 that I dearly love but the spacebar is not advancing as it should be...any thoughts? Do you repair typewriters I am trying to find a repair person. I live in Virginia. Any thoughts would help, Thanks! and again great video!
Chris Mortenson - Hi Chris. I bought a Hermes 3000 last weekend and had the same problem. I realised that the right hand tab setting was stopping the spacebar / keys from advancing. Are the tab settings all okay?
Thanks for taking the time to produce this video, I enjoyed it very much. Probably a labor of love on your part.
I happened upon a Hermes 3000 in a local up scale second hand store here in Orrville Ohio. It was calling me from across
the room in its unique splendor. I think we paid around $50 for it, maybe a little less. Serial #31798XX, made in 1959 per the
Typewriter Database. The machine is in almost mint condition with the original small brush, the original manual and full color
fold out guide for quick reference. The wife was getting her first experience with it today and has been talking about it non stop.
At present I have 13 typewirters ranging from a 1926 Royal 10 up to a 1969 Royal Safari DeLuxe .
I do not remember when I started to accumulate these. It has been at least a dozen years. Don't think I'm done yet.
There was another member of the Marx Brothers family who wandered off from Groucho, Chico, Harpo, Gummo and Zeppo.
His name was Typo and he just wasn't funny. Yeah I made that up and it's not funny either.
I feel like buying a typewriter even though I have computers and gadgets. I like antiques :D
Thanks for the tour. It’s such a dream machine.
The typerwriter of my dreams. It`s curvy and cute just like me Ha ha ha.
I don't know why but I enjoy watching this video from time to time. The Hermes is near mint, which is nice. I use it as a gold standard to measure others by. Still have yet to pick one up. The Olivetti I bought, types so well I didn't have to buy any others. Your voice reminds me of some guys I knew in Iowa City who came from Burlington, IA. Heh. Django in the background. Good stuff.
Thanks for that. Django is a band or..?
+Fnelrbnef Django Reinhardt, gypsy jazz guitar god :)
We have a radio talk show in the UK call Desert Island Discs broadcast on BBC Radio 4. Each week a guest, called a "castaway" during the programme, is asked to choose recordings (usually, but not always, music) a book and a luxury item that they would take if they were to be cast away on a desert island, this week Tom Hanks was on the show, his chosen luxury item was a Hermes 3000 typewriter and some paper. So you collectors are in goodcompany :)
Ha! that's pretty cool. From what I've heard about Mr Hanks and his collection, we have very similar taste in typewriters; a well-tuned Hermes 3000 is one of my favorite things in the world :)
beautiful piece of history
Another good video and an interesting typewriter.
I enjoyed your video on the 3000!
A. Would love to see all a video series on this typewriter for all its controls.
B. Like how to set the margins and all the keys on the top row.
C. Going over the instruction manual and extra tips that fill in the blanks for a new audience that are not used to manual stuff.
D. Any idea of where to buy used parts like the nice case you show here.
I have a series one that needs a new lock for the case, but a decked out one like the one shown here would be nice.
I also bought a type two from 1961 and it runs so smoothly, it is such a candy for the eyes as well as the hands, then, the sounds of keys makes it complete, till you hear the nice ring of the end of the line. I can see why you might take it to bed because as you close your eyes you might think of something to write :-)
I share your appreciation of this "Cadillac" although, personally, I think of it as a BMW 325. It corners better than the Dilla, has euro style, and is pretty compact without leaving anything out. Most of all, it is a style ikon. When I am tired and sore eyed I talk to it and engage in a bit of a fondle. So nice...
+James Jacocks HA!! i know what you mean - the tactile curves & gentle caress of my H3k tends to make bad days better & good days greater - and it's totally a sensual thing(not quite sexual, but almost). I've been yelled at more than once by my lady for bringing the Hermes to bed with me.
@TypewriterJustice
Sir,
Any suggestions as to where to get a 1963 foam green portable Hermes 3000 deluxe edition typewriter from? Web-stores?
Hi. I'm here looking for some help remuving an Hermes Baby 1948 platen. I can't take off the left side knob. Do I need to turn it clockwise? Do I need to unscrew the screw at the centre of the knob? Thanks.
Pasquale.
Hello TJ: I'm torn between the Hermes 3000 and the Olympia SM3 for the typewriter I'd like to purchase. One of essential features I'm looking for is a machine that types in the Courier typeface. The Olympia SM3's that I have viewed on eBay have this, but I have noticed that not all of the Hermes 3000's that I have viewed do. Is this due to any differences in the Hermes 3000 models or year(s) of manufacture? How would I be able to distinguish the typefaces among machines for which the sellers do not provide photos of typing demos?
Considering the wide array of typefaces available on both machines, you really need to be able to examine the type either by a photo of the slugs or a type-sample photo. there's no other way. if you are weighing between those two, you should consider your key layout as well as the feel of the machines. SM3's have a right handed backspace, where the H3k has a left handed one(unless you're a freak like me & figure out how to reverse the position & operation of the H3k's backspace/tab keys...which ain't easy) As far as feel goes, YMMV but for the most part the Hermes offers an easier transition machine for someone used to computer keyboards; when well tuned their action is light, crisp and snappy. The SM3, on the other hand, rewards a skilled typist with a solid typing experience which feels less crisp but more fluid than the Hermes. How big are your hands? If you have large fingers, the Hermes will be more forgiving than the SM3. My personal favorite between those is the H3k. (my current daily writer alternates between a 196X H3k, a '47 Streamliner, and a Lettera 32) My honest to goodness for real recommendation? get three of each, figure it out later ;)
+TypewriterJustice ...or rather, a '41 Streamliner, not '47
Nice video, thanks. I was looking for a review on an Alpina SK24 but found no Alpinas on your channel. What do you think of it? There are plenty of these Hermes here in Zurich, so might go for this one instead- but have read online that the Alpina is wonderful. Thanks for any advice!
I picked up the first version without the 2 holes on front the other day.
But no bottom cover or feet like yours, did they come with that or am I missing something ?
VintageTexas59 - definitely missing...they all should have a bottom plate & feet.
Dang, looked kind of empty down under... do you maybe have some spares for this in your treasure boxes ?
Check your PM.
I have a 3000 on the way. It is a 1965 model, and has what is known as the Techno-Elite typeface. (Yes, the margin ruler on the bail does go to 120.) I have the same typeface on my Rocket 1970. Personally, as opposed to all the Royal typewriters I have, the Techno-Elite typeface, to me, is a refreshing change.
Do the keys glow in the dark? It almost looks like it in this video. 😅
Hello, my Hermes 3000 is the same one you have and it's completely busted. Do you know anywhere I could get it repaired? pleease reply soon! :(
I own a Hermes 3000 and it's in great condition. But the carriage is locked and I can't get it unlocked with the unlock lever. Any suggestions on how to proceed?
sorry for the late response - overlooked your comment :( unfortunately, the problem could be several different things...
-the small cradle latch that the carriage release actually interacts with can get hung if it is dirty; it is at the bottom of the carriage on the end of the right side. if it's sluggish, clean it with mineral spirits.
-the margin system could be malfunctioning or simply set to the center, which is very common if the machine has been in the possession of someone who does not know how to operate it properly since folks wanting to move the carriage tend naturally to grab for the margin lever rather than pushing the button above it; if your margins are malfunctioning, find a repairman site.xavier.edu/polt/typewriters/tw-repair.html
-the escapement/backspace could be hung. jiggle it, wiggle it, but don't force anything to move! shine a light in one end of the carriage, and look down into the other; check for debris, watch for movement as you work the carriage lock and the carriage release mechanisms. if it's not obvious, find a repairman!
I hope you get it working - these are fabulous machines. Best of luck!
Does the Hermes 3000 have a bell that chimes at the end of the margin? I didn't see one when you lifted the ribbon cover.
she does indeed have a bell - it is mounted vertically at the rear of the machine, just under the carriage
Ah, thank you TJ! It's a beautiful machine. Your description of it being the "Cadillac of typewriters" only makes it more illuminating as I search for just the right one.
Hi, i have a 1947 Hermes baby, good condition, only needs a new lint. What would i be able to sell it for +-?
bjorn coetsee - exactly as much as your buyer thinks it’s worth ;)
Ha! Stencil setting. The ultimate test of one's capability with a manual typewriter was doing a mimeograph wax stencil master. Even the slightest flaws in uneven stroke were magnified. For those who don't know, the mimeograph machine was a way of printing large runs of newsletters, etc., without having to do typesetting on a Linotype machine . As the key hit the master it would make an impression that the ink flowed through when the printing process started. The heavier the stroke, the more the ink flowed. Too heavy, and it would punch a hole in the master that would make a big ugly spot instead of a letter. Print 100 newsletters and 100 readers got to see every flaw in your typing.
So if I might ask, what's so special about these? I'm new to typewriters, but I've read enough to see that the Hermes 3000 ranks pretty highly among more seasoned collectors and enthusiasts. And just out of curiosity, what's the going rate for one of these if I wanted to get one for myself?
Cheers Lads,
Brendan O.
I personally think most of the appeal is due to the styling(super curvy, finger-friendly, and utterly unique in a subtle way) but the excellent performance, quality design & overall superb Swiss construction certainly play a part :) you should be able to pick up an un-restored somewhat functional H3k for between $80-175 depending on how patient you are; for a fully serviced machine, you can expect to pay between $350-750 depending on the level of restoration(which SHOULD include fresh rubber on the platen - Hermes platens are notorious for being harder than stone) but the trick is actually finding one that's been restored; there aren't many folks left out there who can properly tune one of these, and this definitely is not a beginner's machine to tinker with. Totally worth the trouble to find, though - they're amazing machines!
How much did it cost? I’m thinking of purchasing one, but I want to be familiar with the average cost just in case someone tries to ripped me off on eBay
Hi there, do you have a spare carriage return lever for a lettera 22 for sale?
Also my lettera 22 has a little problem with the vertical alignment of the letter "a", which prints a bit higher than the other letters, reckon that might be fixed somehow?
sorry for the slow reply - i actually do have a lettera 22 parts machine. if you still need it, send me a message & we'll get you fixed up
the vertical alignment of the 'a' is likely a result of a slipping typeslug, either currently loose or improperly repaired. it's possible to re-solder a typeslug without a jig, but it's by no means recommended; you are more likely to be happy with the current print than what you would end up with after 5 hours with a soldering iron roasting your fingertips. If the typeslug isn't loose, then change nothing & enjoy the idiosyncrasies which make each machine special; if it's loose, then send me a message & i can point you in the right direction for fixing it yourself.
Nice video! Got a media 3 myself:)
I've had a couple Media 3's over the years, and I like them very much. Such wonderful typers! the trimmed down controls & mechanisms make them a bit more lightweight than the 3000, but otherwise they're identical - so excellent!
Why does it not have the Number 1 on the keyboard?
you don't need it - use the lowercase L
I posted the same comment in a couple of videos. I dig the music you have in the background- what is it? Can you list some names to get me started?
Wie Viele kosten diese Hermes
any idea on how to broaden the margin?
download the owners manual from site.xavier.edu/polt/typewriters/tw-manuals.html and just follow the directions :) its somewhat similar to Royal's Magic Margin arrangement, only better! It's rather fluid once you get the hang of it. Be sure to move the margin by moving the carriage while the lever is engaged, NOT by snapping it to position - much, much safer for the paper bail margin indicator ribbon & spring.
I have this and I love it but I get so confused with margins😂😂
Oh, I want one! What are they going for?
Delinda Brooks these days they aren't cheap - prices on these are hovering between $375-800
I am jealous
Hi Two comments, you should be on radio, you have a nice voice :o)
and secondly,
I have a Hermes 3000 that I dearly love but the spacebar is not advancing as it should be...any thoughts? Do you repair typewriters I am trying to find a repair person. I live in Virginia. Any thoughts would help, Thanks! and again great video!
Chris Mortenson - Hi Chris. I bought a Hermes 3000 last weekend and had the same problem. I realised that the right hand tab setting was stopping the spacebar / keys from advancing. Are the tab settings all okay?
Hmmm, I'll have to check, Thanks for the advice, Thanks for the videos And THANKS for keeping them alive for the rest of us!
I want a typewriter because I think that if I get one, i'll be more inclined to write on it than be addicted to youtube videos
it certainly helps :)
I just bought one but is very dirty but I just to fix them in Mexico..at this moment I'm cleaning it..
Niiice...!
What are you listening to?
Mitchell Evan M. - Django Reinhardt, best guitarist ever
do the hermes media three typewriter
Oh yeah rub that case
erry dey