The historical setting for a typewriter reveals something about a typewriter, and the cultural state of an erra  says something about why men built them the way they did.   For instance,  the pre-1950`s portables were more boxy in outward form, the 1950`s were more streamlined and rounded--obviously the companies were copying each other.   What did the designers and engeneers think of their machnes in different erras?  
     I like the earlier typewriters because the designers seemed to be concderned with quality.   Hope I am sticking with the theme of Typewriter Talk, if not please correct me, I`ll not be offended.
 
 

Notquite_there wrote:

I noticed that all the Olympia`s for sale in that site are from Australia; what are the chances that any one could be sent to the United States without damage?   Responding to beak.

Sorry - only just saw your question when reading some old threads.  The chances are good, but only under the condition that you can make your seller understand the dangers, make the seller learn how to pack the machine properly, and be prepared to pay for proper packing.
The thread 'Another machine destroyed in the post' will give many insights.

Well it was nice of him to leave a reply  just in case!