Thank you for the review. The "Skyriter", was so named because it was just the right size to fit under the passenger seat, as the airplane took off. Considered to be the 'first laptop', since it could sit on said passenger's ...lap. It was quite a convenience for world-hopping newspaper reporters. I have two in my collection. Lou from N.Y.U
I have a 1951 Skywriter and absolutely love the way it types. I seem to grab it first before my four other machines. I do miss the "tab" function however but that's a small price to pay for the awesome portability. Love your videos.
One of met typewriters doesn't have a Bell. And on the Tiger the ribbon holder where the letters hit is a little skewed to the left but when I type a letter it goes straight.
I dont know if you're still looking but I randomly stumbled upon one on Craigslist in the NYC area if that's helpful. I'm not the seller and have no connection to the ad; I Just wanted to share that info if it helps your search. I'd pick it up myself but I've hit my quota of typewriters to justify $100 for another. Haha. Maybe if it was under $30 and needed to be refurbished I'd be more tempted.
Joe Van Cleave did get one! I just watched his video from 3 months ago. Love both these channels. Picked up a 1950’s skyriter yesterday from a lady who had it since she was 10 years old. Super cool lady and typewriter. 😊
Great video! I just switched to the typewriter for first drafts. So much better suited than a computer for getting the story out onto the page. When I went looking for a portable (most of my home writing is on a Royal KMM) I was seriously considering either the Skyriter or the Hermes Rocket. I ended up buying the rocket (it's a great little machine!) but your video has me curious about the Skyriter now! Looking forward to more of your vlogs!
kitbash5104 Thank you! That sounds wonderful; the Hermes rocket is a wonderful machine! Did you go with the classic green or older dark colors? Love the green!
I ended up with the classic green! Most people I talk to think it looks a little ridiculous but I like it! Sorry for the name change... just realized this RUclips account had a ridiculous old name!
I have a typewriter from the early 20th century. It's in very good condition. It's actually easier to use, have more functions, works better and have lighter weight than a newer one I have. The typewriter is very beautiful. The keyboard keys are made of metal and glass and I think they are orgasmic. It's black, and it has round shapes like the one in the video. I inherited the typewriter from my grandmother some weeks ago and it belonged to my great grandfather. I really love the typewriter because is belonged to a family member and not like the new one that I bought for $6,32 and don't know anything about the former owner.
I like your video. Good information for a collector like me has never actually had a Skyriter in hand. Just a little side note in case no one has brought it up, the lever you called the “center” lever, should actually be the carriage lock. Ultra portables like this Skyriter, the lettera22 and Olympia SF (I have all but the Skyriter) have this switch. It prevents the carriage from damaging the teeth under it while be transported. I look forward to see if you will make a vid on taking the back cover off a Skyriter. Thanks again.
I have the older version of the Skyriter with the tiny carriage return, and I agree that it's a pain. I do like that the case is integrated with the body in these older models though, as this makes them even more portable. One tiny feature you missed is the index detent, which is the tiny lever on the bottom of the left hand side: more useful for writing forms than novels, so I understand why you'd never bother with it. Personally, I've used the Skyriter much less since finding my Olympia SM3. The Olympia feels much better to me, but I appreciate how Smith Corona was able to make such a nice feeling, feature rich typewriter in such a tiny package. It's probably the best ultra portable typewriter ever made, and is a great option if you're lugging your machine around allot.
Good Morning! I have this typewriter and I am getting ready to dive in and start cleaning it. Right off the bat, I noticed my ink ribbon isn't advancing while typing. Any ideas?... Thanks for your time! ~Andrea~
I’m a sucker for Hermes machines, particularly Rockets/Babys (I own a few of them because I like them so much) but they way everyone talks about Skyriters, it makes me wonder if I’m missing out on something? Hope one finds it way into my hands!
I don’t think I’ve ever seen a segment-shifted ultraportable, there just isn’t enough room within the confines of the body to raise and lower the entire basket. Good review of the Skyriter. Personally I find my Skyriter a little clunky and prefer the action on the earlier Zephyr.
Thanks for the great video! I’m searching for a 1950s skyriter myself. I’ve found a few on eBay and Etsy but hard to tell what shape they’re in. Out of curiosity, where did you find yours and was it a difficult search? Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks again! Jon
Is there any way to find out the exact year of these typewriters? I just bought this exact model and out of curiosity I would like to know how old it is.
Hello The Aspiring Typist, I wanted to know if there were any differences in later years for the Skyriter model. I'm thinking of buying a 1960s Skyriter instead. What are your thoughts on later year models?
Thanks. I am just researching manual vintage machines.. I had a couple of electric BROTHER machines in the 80s (HS COLLEGE ETC) but have been looking actually at a Smith Corona Silver Sterling... which is a late 60s machine... (Are you perhaps familiar with that model?). My budget is tight so I don't know if I can go collecting machines at this point LOL... The SKYRITER is intriguing. Is it just the SMith Coronas that type well? I haven't actually used a manual.. at least since probably HS ...
Mr AT, my typerwriter makes weak, pale prints on the paper. Is it time to change my ribbon? When do you change your ribbon? I watched your videos and decided to clean an start using my UNIS Biser 35/33 typewriter. It might be really obvious that I should change it, but I have little experience with these machines.
Smith Coronas are so beautiful, but it's pity that I haven't find any with scandinavian layout (keys Å, Ä and Ö). I think that they haven't ever even made those.
I just got one of these a few weeks ago, and I love it! Unfortunately though, I accidentally bent the paper supports (it was like 11 or 12 at night and I was extremely tired, and I was trying to close the case of the typewriter, and I was so tired that I forgot I left the paper supports up, which explained why the case wouldn’t close). I’m gonna have to figure out how to take the paper supports out and try to bend them back into their original position.
I do prefer mechanical typewriters as they are typically much lighter and I can go about sitting in a park without worry of needing an outlet. I've had a few IBM Selectric machines and they are absolutely beautiful monsters and true workhorses. However, my desire to have something light and portable still seems to win out. (Oh yes, and I'm not the hugest fan of the idle mechanical hum as they operate. It's as if the machine is saying 'Are you going to write or what?')
EBay, friend.... eBay..... or some local selling apps like let go or Craig lists.... there's always someone trying to sell antique stuff like typewriters. I bought mine that way which was a smith Corona silent
Hernan hernandez That's a good question. I would say try locally if you can - thrift shops, Craigslist, etc. Otherwise, I personally don't have any issue shopping online with a reputable seller. This skyriter was actually an eBay purchase.
This wonderful guy is a late 1950s model. I picked this one for the body style and longer carriage return lever. Plus, the holiday carrying case is a great addition!
I commend you for not holding on to your previous typewriter. I would have kept it. I keep too many things, as well as the dust that those things collect. I guess you could say that I am a collector of dust by proxy.
I'm going to quickly disappoint! I didn't get rid of the old machine; it is sitting downstairs in my workshop amongst another half a dozen typewriters. ;) I try not to collect any new ones as I already have my main machine and a few in a nice display case.
Agghhh.... make me cringe to see you whacking those metal slugs directly onto that bare platen with no paper. You should never do that - it will damage the platen. Always put paper in, and put a second sheet behind the one you want to write on to cushion it.
Thank you for the review. The "Skyriter", was so named because it was just the right size to fit under the passenger seat, as the airplane took off.
Considered to be the 'first laptop', since it could sit on said passenger's ...lap. It was quite a convenience for world-hopping newspaper reporters.
I have two in my collection.
Lou from N.Y.U
I have a 1951 Skywriter and absolutely love the way it types. I seem to grab it first before my four other machines. I do miss the "tab" function however but that's a small price to pay for the awesome portability. Love your videos.
+Dan Miller Thanks, Dan!
One of met typewriters doesn't have a Bell.
And on the Tiger the ribbon holder where the letters hit is a little skewed to the left but when I type a letter it goes straight.
Excellent video, well-paced and informative without gimmicky stuff. Great job.
Love your videos! Thank you! Typewriter junkie!
Nice video. I'd love to find me one of these Skyriters.
Joe Van Cleave Thanks, Joe! Much appreciated. I've been following your obsessions for quite a while, so thank you for joining my journey also!
I dont know if you're still looking but I randomly stumbled upon one on Craigslist in the NYC area if that's helpful. I'm not the seller and have no connection to the ad; I Just wanted to share that info if it helps your search.
I'd pick it up myself but I've hit my quota of typewriters to justify $100 for another. Haha. Maybe if it was under $30 and needed to be refurbished I'd be more tempted.
+Anthony Ramos Thanks for the share. I’ve also reached my limit, but I constantly monitor machines in the NYC/LI area!
Joe Van Cleave did get one! I just watched his video from 3 months ago. Love both these channels. Picked up a 1950’s skyriter yesterday from a lady who had it since she was 10 years old. Super cool lady and typewriter. 😊
I found a smith corona galaxy 12 the other day. In its carry case. Looks brand new. Clean !!
Great information and very enjoyable to listen to someone who cares about these machines. Thanx.
Great video! I just switched to the typewriter for first drafts. So much better suited than a computer for getting the story out onto the page. When I went looking for a portable (most of my home writing is on a Royal KMM) I was seriously considering either the Skyriter or the Hermes Rocket. I ended up buying the rocket (it's a great little machine!) but your video has me curious about the Skyriter now!
Looking forward to more of your vlogs!
kitbash5104 Thank you! That sounds wonderful; the Hermes rocket is a wonderful machine! Did you go with the classic green or older dark colors? Love the green!
I ended up with the classic green! Most people I talk to think it looks a little ridiculous but I like it! Sorry for the name change... just realized this RUclips account had a ridiculous old name!
Anybody know if this guy is still alive ? Looks like this vid was two years ago ? thanks. Would love to see an update.
omg, lol, but a update would be really cool
Got one of these babies for Christmas . Your cleaning vid was just what I needed. Now I have to find ribbons. Suggestions?
Ribbons Unlimited
1-800-250-7426
Www.ribbonsunlimited.com
I want a skywriter like that one day but in gray or black. It looks compact yet still classic.
Can you please tell me what ribbon to use? I inherited one from my grandfather but there is no ink. Thanks
Nice typewriter and Case!
10:56 - That's really all I needed to hear. Thank you! :D
I have a typewriter from the early 20th century. It's in very good condition. It's actually easier to use, have more functions, works better and have lighter weight than a newer one I have.
The typewriter is very beautiful. The keyboard keys are made of metal and glass and I think they are orgasmic. It's black, and it has round shapes like the one in the video.
I inherited the typewriter from my grandmother some weeks ago and it belonged to my great grandfather. I really love the typewriter because is belonged to a family member and not like the new one that I bought for $6,32 and don't know anything about the former owner.
+Eiliv Ulvestad Henschien That’s awesome. Inheriting a machine and continuing to use it is an amazing historical experience. Good luck!
As a multi-pubbed author… I highly recommend a typewriter to all aspiring authors. I love my SCM Skyriter and my Olympia SM5.
Nice review! We have a Tower Chieftain II (rebranded Skyriter) and enjoy it very much.
I love that the return lever stays out of your way. I love my Olympia SM3 but the lever is imposing.
I like your video. Good information for a collector like me has never actually had a Skyriter in hand. Just a little side note in case no one has brought it up, the lever you called the “center” lever, should actually be the carriage lock. Ultra portables like this Skyriter, the lettera22 and Olympia SF (I have all but the Skyriter) have this switch. It prevents the carriage from damaging the teeth under it while be transported. I look forward to see if you will make a vid on taking the back cover off a Skyriter. Thanks again.
I have the older version of the Skyriter with the tiny carriage return, and I agree that it's a pain. I do like that the case is integrated with the body in these older models though, as this makes them even more portable. One tiny feature you missed is the index detent, which is the tiny lever on the bottom of the left hand side: more useful for writing forms than novels, so I understand why you'd never bother with it.
Personally, I've used the Skyriter much less since finding my Olympia SM3. The Olympia feels much better to me, but I appreciate how Smith Corona was able to make such a nice feeling, feature rich typewriter in such a tiny package. It's probably the best ultra portable typewriter ever made, and is a great option if you're lugging your machine around allot.
Pilipino channel
Good Morning! I have this typewriter and I am getting ready to dive in and start cleaning it. Right off the bat, I noticed my ink ribbon isn't advancing while typing. Any ideas?...
Thanks for your time!
~Andrea~
Excellent video! Enjoyable content and commentary. Thank you so much.
Thanks for this! Just got my Skyriter & found this video. Could you do a video on how to change the ribbon? Trying to figure it out.
I’m a sucker for Hermes machines, particularly Rockets/Babys (I own a few of them because I like them so much) but they way everyone talks about Skyriters, it makes me wonder if I’m missing out on something? Hope one finds it way into my hands!
I don’t think I’ve ever seen a segment-shifted ultraportable, there just isn’t enough room within the confines of the body to raise and lower the entire basket. Good review of the Skyriter. Personally I find my Skyriter a little clunky and prefer the action on the earlier Zephyr.
Thanks for the great video! I’m searching for a 1950s skyriter myself. I’ve found a few on eBay and Etsy but hard to tell what shape they’re in. Out of curiosity, where did you find yours and was it a difficult search? Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks again! Jon
Skywriter or Webster XL-500? Which to choose; I wonder how they match up quality wise
It is kinda unfortunate that your last video is 4 years old
Really enjoying your videos, thank you.
How does it compare to an Olivetti lettera22?
Is there any way to find out the exact year of these typewriters? I just bought this exact model and out of curiosity I would like to know how old it is.
Hello The Aspiring Typist, I wanted to know if there were any differences in later years for the Skyriter model. I'm thinking of buying a 1960s Skyriter instead. What are your thoughts on later year models?
Thanks. I am just researching manual vintage machines.. I had a couple of electric BROTHER machines in the 80s (HS COLLEGE ETC) but have been looking actually at a Smith Corona Silver Sterling... which is a late 60s machine... (Are you perhaps familiar with that model?). My budget is tight so I don't know if I can go collecting machines at this point LOL... The SKYRITER is intriguing. Is it just the SMith Coronas that type well? I haven't actually used a manual.. at least since probably HS ...
Mr AT, my typerwriter makes weak, pale prints on the paper. Is it time to change my ribbon? When do you change your ribbon? I watched your videos and decided to clean an start using my UNIS Biser 35/33 typewriter. It might be really obvious that I should change it, but I have little experience with these machines.
I found an old typewriter in my father ‘s garage but very dirty and full of rust and dust. Does it worth fixing?
Thanks for this nice review, i'm a beginner in the typewriter world , does this one exist or has been made in French keyboard?..
Smith Coronas are so beautiful, but it's pity that I haven't find any with scandinavian layout (keys Å, Ä and Ö). I think that they haven't ever even made those.
I just got one of these a few weeks ago, and I love it! Unfortunately though, I accidentally bent the paper supports (it was like 11 or 12 at night and I was extremely tired, and I was trying to close the case of the typewriter, and I was so tired that I forgot I left the paper supports up, which explained why the case wouldn’t close). I’m gonna have to figure out how to take the paper supports out and try to bend them back into their original position.
Any chance that skyriter is for sale ?
it is beautiful. What do you think about Electric typewriters? do you prefer Mechanical ones?
Good video.
I do prefer mechanical typewriters as they are typically much lighter and I can go about sitting in a park without worry of needing an outlet. I've had a few IBM Selectric machines and they are absolutely beautiful monsters and true workhorses. However, my desire to have something light and portable still seems to win out. (Oh yes, and I'm not the hugest fan of the idle mechanical hum as they operate. It's as if the machine is saying 'Are you going to write or what?')
How do I buy a machine like this and where to buy it
EBay, friend.... eBay..... or some local selling apps like let go or Craig lists.... there's always someone trying to sell antique stuff like typewriters. I bought mine that way which was a smith Corona silent
where do you buy your typewriters? I'm strongly considering buying one between 50$ and 100$ in the next month or so.
Hernan hernandez That's a good question. I would say try locally if you can - thrift shops, Craigslist, etc. Otherwise, I personally don't have any issue shopping online with a reputable seller. This skyriter was actually an eBay purchase.
Share the link and guide
Hello! What year is this Skyriter? its perfect!!
This wonderful guy is a late 1950s model. I picked this one for the body style and longer carriage return lever. Plus, the holiday carrying case is a great addition!
The Aspiring Typist Thank you! Very inspired by your short story post as well!
Very beautiful.
I learned how to type on something just like that
The Smith-Corona typed,
HELLO 2020, CORONA HERE.
HOW ARE YOU.
I commend you for not holding on to your previous typewriter. I would have kept it. I keep too many things, as well as the dust that those things collect. I guess you could say that I am a collector of dust by proxy.
I'm going to quickly disappoint! I didn't get rid of the old machine; it is sitting downstairs in my workshop amongst another half a dozen typewriters. ;) I try not to collect any new ones as I already have my main machine and a few in a nice display case.
Display case? That's cool. But, you're giving some of us hoarders a bad name! LOL
I prefer the vintage, original paint.
Agghhh.... make me cringe to see you whacking those metal slugs directly onto that bare platen with no paper. You should never do that - it will damage the platen. Always put paper in, and put a second sheet behind the one you want to write on to cushion it.
Not a single word typed 🤨
20 minutes with a typewriter and never typing?