Cameron down at Living in the Woods asked today for some date of manufacture info about his Underwood Universal, and mentioned that he couldn’t find any info in the usual sources. I looked it up in my homemade line book, composed of printouts from scans I’ve made of various paper sources, and found a good line chart for Underwood Portables.
I don’t think I’ve posted this info before, so here it is!
Ted, thank you very much for posting this! I’ve been rather frustrated by the lack of documentation of Underwood serial numbers lately, and your list really helps out a lot. I’m sure the rest of the Typosphere appreciates it, too!
What a fine example of the typosphere at work.
Excellent!! Thank you for all the work this must have taken. I find many of your references very helpful and now there is another one to which I know I will refer.
Thanks Ted, helps me re-date my Nsls. a year younger to 1947.
Thanks for sharing.
I just picked up an underwood portable typewriter for my daughter the serial no is 467259 I would like to know more about this typewriter before I give it to her such as when it was made and if I can still purchase ribbon for it
If it’s a Universal, Junior or F-Model, 1929.
If it’s a Model 18, 1962.
You can get standard typewriter ribbons at Staples or other office supply stores, or on ebay. Usually less than $10.
I have an Underwood portable typewriter Model #4F-716881 sold in Newburgh ,New York on Jan. 7th 1934. I went to Staples looking for ribbon and reels and they had no such thing. They put me through to their supplier but haven’t got back to me yet. This was the first place I went.
Good evening!
I have just retrieved the typewriter from my late Grandfather’s jewelry store, as the building sold and closed today. He was in business from 1928 to 1964, when he passed away.
This typewriter is an Underwood, Serial Number 4915911-11 (engraved on plaque on machine); U5 on bottom. I cannot say if it’s a Portable or Standard…no carrying case found. I would really appreciate knowing more about this model and the years it was produced. It is in very good condition, as it has spent the years in the building since his death, and was used by some of the building renters during those years. It now lives with me and will remain one of my treasures.
If you can offer any information on my “new” typewriter, I’d be very grateful!
Sincerely,
Carmel Pinkerton
okcalgal@wildblue.net
Cushing, OK
4915911 is probably an Underwood #6, manufactured late in 1938.
I have acquired an Underwood portable typewriter – serial number is F1627235 (I think). I would like to find out more about it. I’ve tried to find information on it but not much luck – can you help me?
late 1946:
http://typewriterdatabase.com/underwood.4.typewriter-serial-number-database
I just purchased a (1958?) Underwood Crest Quiet Tab.
For starters, I have no idea where to look for the serial number.
I assume it’s 1958 because the model has the push-button ribbon cover release.
(That is what’s really nagging at me . . . the logo is missing from the button leaving just a brass rectangle right in the center. I am hoping to find this little piece to improve its aesthetics. What are the chances of that ever happening? *sigh*
Also, I am finding ZERO information about the Crest. I keep seeing Universal, DeLuxe, Golden Touch, etc. No Crest, what is the difference?
Thanks!
I have an Underwood Typewriter S/N M67502. Can I find out approximate value?
Just purchased an Underwood 18 circa 1962 and I am wondering where to find a user manual. Can someone please point me in the right direction? I am so excited to get typing!! : )
Underwood 18 manual:
https://docs.google.com/file/d/0B9INR5ltu-o8bExUYXhxbUVWZ2s/edit
I have an Underwood Champion typewriter by Underwood Elliott Fisher Co. and cannot locate the serial number. I have looked on the upper right-hand side under the carriage where some sites have said it should be located, but cannot find any numbers at all. Any suggestions?
I have an Underwood with the serial #870134. Any idea what year and model # it is?
Thanks.
I inherited an Underwood Portable from my aunt and am having a terrible time finding solid information on it. You really know your stuff and I’m wondering if you can help me?
The front reads only “Underwood Portable” and the back lists no patents. It is a 4 bank. There is a plate affixed with the number F760791. As a writer, I am looking forward to my relationship with this beautiful machine.
I appreciate your time.
1934
I have a Underwood Portable serial # F769294. I cannot find the year it was made. I looked at several websites, had no luck. My eyes are hurting. Can you tell me what year it was made? I would love to have it refurbished
Thank you!
like the one above, 1934:
http://typewriterdatabase.com/underwood.4.typewriter-serial-number-database
Hallo I am Aynur from Germany, i have a underwood whit the serialnummber 1859207-5 can say anywan from whitch jear the typer is ? Thank you so much in love Aynur :)
1925, assuming it’s a Standard and not a Portable.
I inherited a portable underwood typewriter (in carrying case) from my mother. The Serial #S1151262
Can you provide me with the year & possible value. I keep it on my ladies writing table & imagine her using it in college.
Thank you for any history you can provide.
1938. Value is pure sentiment and the beauty and utility it can provide you, unless you want to try to get $50 out of it on ebay.