Fully functional and serviced, this 1964 Olympia SM5 is a classic West German portable typewriter built during the height of Olympia's reputation for exceptional engineering, precision, and reliability. Manufactured in Wilhelmshaven, West Germany, the SM5 represents the outstanding craftsmanship that made Olympia one of the most respected typewriter manufacturers in the world.
The Olympia SM5 was introduced as a more affordable alternative to the company's flagship portable models while retaining the same commitment to mechanical quality and dependable performance. Built with a durable all-metal body and Olympia's renowned precision engineering, the SM5 offered writers, students, and home users a high-quality writing machine without the additional features of more expensive models. Its straightforward design and excellent mechanical construction made it a practical and reliable choice during the 1960s.
Equipped with a Pica Typeface (prints 10 characters per inch), this machine produces bold, clear, and highly legible lettering characteristic of traditional typewritten documents. Pica was one of the most popular typefaces of the era, widely used for correspondence, manuscripts, and general office work. Its generous character spacing and distinctive appearance remain especially appealing to those who appreciate the classic typewriter aesthetic.
Often described as the "Mercedes-Benz of typewriters," Olympia established its reputation through exceptional German engineering and outstanding mechanical precision. The SM5 delivers a smooth, responsive keyboard, consistent typing action, and precise carriage movement. Its simplified mechanical design provides an enjoyable and dependable typing experience while maintaining the substantial feel and build quality associated with Olympia's celebrated SM series.
Serviced and ready for immediate use, this 1964 Olympia SM5 combines classic West German craftsmanship, timeless design, and the traditional Pica typeface in a durable, exceptionally well-engineered manual portable typewriter.
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 2484460. Please see photos for condition.