Collecting typewriters has become quite a popular hobby over the last few years and finding reasonably priced machines is not too difficult if you know where to look. Finding antique Underwood typewriters is a fairly easy to task, as this was one of the major manufacturers and there are still a lot of models out there in decent condition. So where do we start?
If you live near a thrift store this is a good place to look. The good side of this is that if you find an old Underwood machine, it will likely be in good condition and very cheap. The downside is that it's not often that these types of stores put antique typewriters on the floor. The people in the back fail to see the collectible value and many get tossed. So, if you live nearby, stop in and check when you can. I've seen vintage Underwood noiseless models sell for .00 at these stores!
Craigslist is an online classifieds site that always has typewriters for sale. It works just like a regular classified newspaper ad. You will have to either call the seller or email them and them arrange to meet. The good side of this is that you can communicate with the buyer and make sure the trip is worth it. Often they will not know what they have and might just list "old typewriter for sale" on the site. This is where you can really cash in! Call and see if it's an old Underwood. Imagine finding out they have an antique Underwood model 3 or 5 typewriter or a nice Champion model that they want to sell fast & cheap! Be ready to bargain too. Most sellers on this site want fast cash so make sure you have it and don't be afraid to wheel and deal!
Yard/Garage sales are another great source for vintage or antique Underwood machines if you are into this sort of thing. Some people truly enjoy hitting the summer yard sales, enjoying the sun and fresh air. If you are one of these people, you are bound to find an old Underwood somewhere in your travels and you can really get a bargain! Many of these sales are organized to clean out the basement and attic. The money is secondary to getting rid of the "junk" that's taking up space. I once bought an old portable Underwood from the 1920s with white on green keys for .00! What beauty! It's not uncommon to find antique manual Underwood's from the early 1900's, complete with case and owners manual at these summer sales.
eBay is truly a modern marvel in itself! You can find almost anything on that site and antique typewriters are no exception, including plenty of Underwood models. The best thing about eBay is the fantastic search tool. You can find specifically the model you want if you know what you are looking for. Type in Underwood 4, you'll probably see a few listings. Type in just "Underwood typewriter" and you'll get a few pages! Although you most likely won't find any "steals" on eBay, you can get more than a fair deal and the selection is better than anywhere on the planet, literally! If you know what you want, this is a fantastic site to check out.
Do you have friends? I hope so! This is so simple that it's often overlooked. Ask your friends and family if they have an old typewriter or if they know someone who does. Many folks have these old machines tucked away in their attics or garages and have no intention of using them. Many times they've even forgotten they were there but if you refresh their memory by mentioning it they'll remember instantly. Chances are good someone you ask will have, or know someone who has an antique Underwood typewriter in storage. Of course, you should offer them something for the machine, but you'd be surprised how many people will give them to you, and free is the best deal of all!
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