I have a hard time deciding how far to go with cleaning. The Everest K2 came out with mixed results. I washed a Royal Portable to get rid of basement stench (the case needs to be burned!) and it works flawlessly.
Most cleaning I have done with my first 3000 was blow the dust out with compressed air, clean the typeface and start using it. May just do the same with this one.
This was one of those "I must have this" typewriters when I noticed the typeface.
My reckoning is that if I give up looking for one, a fine example will present itself by chance. Meanwhile, I just wait with envy. The worst smelling typewriter I ever handled was a 1960s Empire Aristocrat (like a Hermes Baby, but British-built). The tray was lined with soundproofing felt. After a gentle shampoo, it still stank but much more bearably than before.
Rob, This one does not really need much. I blew the dust out of it with compressed air and I think I will give the case a wipe-down with cleaner and Pledge. The typewriter is nice and clean for its age, even had the rust inhibitor paper still inside. This one smells fresh out of the factory. Can't say the same for the Facit (coming to a future post). The Facit smells like it was in a smoke filled room for decades; looks nice and clean, but stinks.
Fernando, I blew the dust out of the machine and put the case back on it and I think it will remain as it is with the exception of making some platen knobs for it.
Man, I 've always loved that "robot" font. You're lucky to own that Hermes 3000.
ReplyDeleteIs it the round or squared body style? I really like mine (never cleaned).
ReplyDeleteNotagain,
DeleteThat is part of the mystery, for now. Clue 1968. I'll post more when I finish the J4 and my Underwood.
I really like my Hermes 3000 elite and I am sure to like this one. It has one of my favorite typefaces and types really nicely.
That is a nice type face. Our robots approve.
ReplyDeleteI have a hard time deciding how far to go with cleaning. The Everest K2 came out with mixed results. I washed a Royal Portable to get rid of basement stench (the case needs to be burned!) and it works flawlessly.
Most cleaning I have done with my first 3000 was blow the dust out with compressed air, clean the typeface and start using it. May just do the same with this one.
ReplyDeleteThis was one of those "I must have this" typewriters when I noticed the typeface.
Great techno font!
ReplyDeleteMy reckoning is that if I give up looking for one, a fine example will present itself by chance. Meanwhile, I just wait with envy. The worst smelling typewriter I ever handled was a 1960s Empire Aristocrat (like a Hermes Baby, but British-built). The tray was lined with soundproofing felt. After a gentle shampoo, it still stank but much more bearably than before.
ReplyDeleteRob,
DeleteThis one does not really need much. I blew the dust out of it with compressed air and I think I will give the case a wipe-down with cleaner and Pledge. The typewriter is nice and clean for its age, even had the rust inhibitor paper still inside. This one smells fresh out of the factory. Can't say the same for the Facit (coming to a future post). The Facit smells like it was in a smoke filled room for decades; looks nice and clean, but stinks.
Ah, the elusive Hermes Techno Pica. I briefly laid hands on one being passed around at the Great Seattle Type-in. Nice machines!
ReplyDeleteI just love that font!
ReplyDeleteAnd the charm of Hermes, is partly in its aroma ... Do you want to lose something so unique?
Fernando,
DeleteI blew the dust out of the machine and put the case back on it and I think it will remain as it is with the exception of making some platen knobs for it.