A fully functional and serviced 1963 Olympia SM7 combines the precision engineering of West German typewriter manufacturing with the distinctive styling that earned Olympia its reputation as the Mercedes-Benz of typewriters. The SM7 represents an important chapter in Olympia’s celebrated line of manual portables, known for their exceptional build quality, precise mechanical operation, and refined typing performance.
This machine features an attractive light blue body accented by a textured gray front panel, white keys, and polished chrome details. Its sculpted housing and clean lines reflect the modern European design aesthetic of the early 1960s. The contrasting colors give this SM7 a particularly distinctive appearance, setting it apart from more conventional portable typewriters of the period.
Olympia built its reputation on precision and durability, and the SM7 reflects that tradition throughout its design. Its well-balanced keyboard, smooth carriage operation, and carefully engineered mechanisms deliver the controlled, responsive typing experience that made Olympia machines highly regarded among professional typists and writers.
Fitted with the uncommon Cursive/Script No. 69 typeface, this machine produces elegant, flowing, handwritten-style lettering. With spacing of 11 characters per inch, the script has a compact, refined appearance that gives typed text a distinctive character. Due to the nature of this specialty typeface, a solid-color ribbon should be used rather than a two-color ribbon.
A distinctive West German Olympia combining the precision engineering of one of the finest names in typewriter manufacturing with striking light blue styling and the uncommon Cursive/Script No. 69 typeface. This 1963 SM7 offers a particularly interesting variation of Olympia’s respected manual portable lineup.
Serviced by Adam Brooks of Brooksaw Antiques, an experienced typewriter technician with over seven years in the field and a trusted name among collectors and enthusiasts for quality restoration, precision service, and dependable workmanship. Servicing vintage typewriters involves a series of steps to restore it to optimal working condition, ensuring smooth operation and longevity. Here’s a summary of what’s typically done:
Inspection: The process starts with a thorough check of all components—keys, typebars, carriage, platen, ribbon mechanism, and springs—to identify wear, damage, or stuck parts.
Cleaning: Decades of dust, ink, and grime are removed. A soft brush and compressed air clear out debris from the typebars and chassis. Keytops are wiped down, and the platen (rubber roller) is cleaned with a mild solvent to restore grip. Harsh chemicals are avoided to protect metal and rubber.
Lubrication: Moving parts—like the carriage rails, typebar pivots, and shift mechanism—are lightly lubricated with typewriter-specific oil.
Adjustments: Alignment is key. Typebars are adjusted to strike evenly, ensuring crisp impressions. The carriage tension is checked, and the escapement (which controls letter spacing) is fine-tuned.
Repairs: Worn or broken parts—like springs, screws, or rubber feet—are replaced. A brand new universal ink ribbon is installed, which is easily replaceable and widely available on most online platforms.
Testing: The typewriter is typed on extensively—every key, shift, spacebar, and return—to confirm smooth action, proper alignment, and consistent ink delivery. Any sluggishness (e.g., sticky keys) is addressed by revisiting problem areas.
Shipments are all packed to be virtually indestructible and shipped same or next business day. You are risking damage if you buy from a non experienced shipper! Check our reviews! Serial number is 2200901. Please see photos for condition.