Adler J3

$235 (plus shipping if outside of the Detroit area)

Meet “Erika,” a working 1963 Adler J3 typewriter with a rare Pica Imperial font that’s pulp-paperback-tastic. This vintage portable typewriter began life on the desk of an aspiring Canadian short story writer.

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Made in Western Germany, this Adler typewriter is smartly serious in tan with yellow keys. This manual machine types smoothly: all of the keys strike fluidly with the exception of a slightly reluctant key, the carriage moves well, and the end-of-line bell rings nicely.

The unusual font, which is a pleasing serif classic, blends midcentury pulp fiction vibes with easy readability. Please see photos for a type sample. The type size is a comfortable 10 characters per inch, and it comes with a brand new black ribbon installed.

This vintage typewriter’s early plastic body is adorned by the prominent eagle-shaped Adler logo. Cosmetically, this Adler is in generally good condition, with the exception of a hairline crack near the spacebar that does not affect function.

It’s worth mentioning, this Adler will look ultra-cool in any work or living space as it exudes a space age aesthetic (and churns out gorgeous, writerly type).

Please note that this typewriter does not have a travel or carrying case.

Underwood 319

Detroit Type Works