1899 Franklin #7

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Handsome Machine With Unusual Ergonomics

This delightful functional example of a sturdy early typewriter is mounted on a baseboard and includes the original removeable metal case. This is no copycat machine mimicking other early machines. Nearly everything from the keyboard design to the typebar layout and the ribbon handling mechanism represent original ideas.

The type keys are linked to a simple, effective gear system. While often described as a “visible writing” typewriter, where the typist can directly see what has been typed, the type bars on this machine are positioned vertically behind a tall curved casing, which effectively hides the typebars from view.

The ribbon spools, uniquely located side-by-side in the middle of the platen, advance and reverse automatically using a clever tooth and ratchet arrangement connected to the carriage movement.

The “Franklin” lettering decal on the front of the machine is in excellent condition. The paper tray portrait of Benjamin Franklin and associated gold pinstriping are in good condition.

The curved keyboard, while attractive, does not facilitate efficient typing compared to today’s computer keyboards which, while often ergonomically curved, curve in the opposite direction than the Franklin.
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The 1899 Franklin #7 uses a 3-row, curved, Qwerty, 40-key keyboard, with a downstrike mechanism.
Overall condition: Good
Year: 1899
Serial No.: 13491
Type language: English
Manufactured in the United States by the Franklin Typewriter Company in New York