An impressive and highly collectible Antique Royal Standard Typewriter presented in original condition and retaining exceptional period character.
Unlike many antique typewriters offered today, this machine remains a functional example and presents beautifully as both a display piece and a usable writing machine. Royals from this era are widely regarded by collectors and restorers as some of the finest and most durable standard office typewriters ever produced, known for their robust engineering, smooth action and excellent typing feel.
Royal was one of the great American typewriter manufacturers and a major competitor to Underwood during the golden age of typewriter production.
This model represents the classic early Royal open-front design, a machine built for serious office work and professional use. Royal typewriters gained a reputation for reliability and mechanical durability, with many surviving examples still functioning more than a century after manufacture.
The machine retains a number of desirable early features including:
These early Royal standards were used throughout business offices, government departments, legal practices, shipping companies, railway administrations, military offices and newspaper organisations around the world.
This machine is in remarkably honest original condition.
Importantly, the machine appears to function well and is significantly more complete and operational than many surviving examples from this period.
As with any antique mechanical device, a full professional service cannot be assumed and buyers should expect normal maintenance associated with a machine of this age.
One of the strongest attributes of this Royal is its authenticity.
The finish displays the kind of genuine wear collectors seek and which cannot be replicated through artificial ageing or restoration.
This machine possesses a wonderful historical presence and would be equally at home in a museum display, heritage office setting, private collection or writer's study.
Experienced collectors and typewriter enthusiasts will know that Royal standards from this period are among the best practical writing machines of the early twentieth century.
Compared with many competing machines, Royals are often praised for:
For this reason, Royal standards remain highly sought after not only by collectors but also by experienced typewriter users who continue to write on antique machines.
A particularly interesting feature of this machine is its French-language keyboard configuration and original Nantes distributor plaque.
Visible markings include:
"E. FRADET
4 rue du Couëdic
NANTES"
This adds an additional layer of historical interest and makes the machine distinct from more commonly encountered English-market examples.
Based on the design, construction, decals and keyboard configuration, this Royal appears to date from the early twentieth century, likely within the 1910s–1920s period. Buyers are encouraged to conduct their own research regarding precise production dates.
Please examine all photographs carefully as they form part of the description and condition report.
This is an authentic antique Royal Standard Typewriter retaining its original finish, attractive natural patina, historical integrity and working mechanical character.
Machines of this quality are becoming increasingly difficult to find, particularly examples that remain both visually appealing and mechanically functional.
This heavy antique machine will be professionally packed using multiple layers of protective materials.
A wonderful opportunity to acquire a genuine Royal Standard Typewriter in original condition. Equally suited to collectors, museums, heritage displays and experienced typewriter users seeking one of the finest practical writing machines produced during the golden age of typewriters.