Recently, I’ve been getting into typewriters and, honestly, I might have gone a little overboard impulsively buying them...
Can you blame me? These sometimes go for only 25 bucks, CAN YOU BLAME ME??
Relax - it’s not as daunting as it sounds (I think). Most typewriters work fine but need a little help. Here’s what you can do:
But here’s the trick: add perceived value to stand out from the crowd (who overprice often dirty and unserviced machines like in the image above). For example:
Even if you don't sell it for as much as 200€, flipping a machine you bought for €0-50 can still easily net you an €30-70 - or more!
I think this might be an interesting idea for some younger people here and I just wanted to share what I recently learned!
Can you blame me? These sometimes go for only 25 bucks, CAN YOU BLAME ME??
Why Typewriters?
Typewriters are timeless. They’re a blend of history, mechanics, and art - and surprisingly, they’re still in demand! Whether it’s for aesthetic decor, writers embracing nostalgia, or collectors, there’s a market for them.Finding Your Stock
Where do you get these typewriters? It’s easier than you think:- Kleinanzeigen (German Craigslist), Facebook Marketplace, or local flea markets have these.
- Many sellers undervalue their typewriters because they don’t realize their worth or just want to get rid of them.
- Some typewriters are even offered for free—you just have to pick them up.
- Many well-known brands and sought-after models (like Hermes and Olympia) get lost in Kleinanzeigen’s algorithm and sit unsold for ages.
Adding Value: Clean-Up and Simple Repairs
"But wait, I have to repair them?! I can’t even change a bike tire!"Relax - it’s not as daunting as it sounds (I think). Most typewriters work fine but need a little help. Here’s what you can do:
- Basic Cleaning: Dust, grime, and stuck keys are common issues.
- Simple Adjustments: Recalibrating the shift or replacing a platen (the rubber roller) sometimes needs to be done.
- Learn as You Go: Tons of online resources and communities provide repair guides, videos, and troubleshooting tips.
- Spare Parts: Machines with irreparable damage can still be valuable as parts donors for other typewriters.
Selling Your Typewriters
Here’s where you make your profit! There are multiple ways to sell: flea markets, Facebook Marketplace, or online platforms like eBay.But here’s the trick: add perceived value to stand out from the crowd (who overprice often dirty and unserviced machines like in the image above). For example:
- Include typing or video demos to show the machine works.
- Use terms like “restored” in your title.
- Provide safe, secure packaging (this is a major selling point).
- Take high-quality photos with good lighting.
Even if you don't sell it for as much as 200€, flipping a machine you bought for €0-50 can still easily net you an €30-70 - or more!
How I got this idea
Like I've said, I've been collecting typewriters recently and stumbled across a few threads on selling too.I think this might be an interesting idea for some younger people here and I just wanted to share what I recently learned!
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