the collector
martin Howard
Welcome to my website. I invite you to explore my collection and discover the fascinating world of antique typewriters.
If you have any questions, are looking for information, or have an early typewriter for sale, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
Why do you collect typewriters?
Collecting early typewriters is the perfect pursuit for me. These intricate machines, each with their own unique character, are not only fascinating and beautifully engineered, but also compact enough to fit on my workbench.
In a world where almost everyone communicates by typing on a keyboard, they continue to speak to us, bridging the past and present.
How would you define your collection?
I collect typewriters that were manufactured before the standard typewriter design was established for the 20th century. The last quarter of the 19th century, in particular, saw a remarkable range of ingenious and beautiful designs—some achieving great success, while many found only partial success or were complete market failures. Regardless of their success, they have all become intriguing and wonderful machines to collect today.
What sparked your interest in typewriters?
As a teenager, I was surrounded by my parents’ eclectic collection of antique implements, ranging from kitchen and agricultural tools to medical and trade instruments. Their basement became a showcase of intriguing designs and craftsmanship, and I grew to appreciate the intricacies and beauty of these objects.
In my thirties, I realized it was time to find my own mechanical collectible, something that resonated with me personally.
Why are typewriters of interest in today’s digital world?
In this age of blinking lights and touch-sensitive screens, early typewriters hold a unique appeal, especially in a world where keyboards are used daily. These machines are immediately understandable tools that invite us to imagine the tactile experience of pressing their keys.
Remarkably, the QWERTY keyboard layout has endured for 150 years since its first appearance.
Do you sell typewriters?
Yes, I sell 19th-century collectible typewriters to enthusiasts and collectors worldwide.
I also offer fully serviced 20th-century portable typewriters to those who wish to use them for their writing needs. These portables, dating from the 1920s to the 1970s, feature some great designs and come in a range of colors, from shiny black to cherry red. Notable models were produced in various countries, including Italy, Germany, and the United States.
Do you show your collection?
Typewriters from my collection have been displayed across North America in venues including the Royal Ontario Museum, CES (the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas), Toronto’s Pearson International Airport, and various conferences.
I am always interested in new opportunities to showcase typewriters from my collection.