UPDATE: Now, this is embarrassing. I didn't even know there was a cheaper sister to the SM-9; the SM-8. I was corrected in the comments by impressionofinfinity. I checked the TWDB and sure enough, there is the SM-8. I should have done my homework. I have corrected the post where possible, but kept the original mistake.
In case you don't know Tim is from Georgia (not Alabama as I indicated previously) and he has been on the quest for the perfect user's typewriter. He's not looking to build a collection. To borrow from the world of animal adoptions, he is looking for a forever typewriter. Due to his immense generosity and kindness, whatever does not meet his expectations has found it's way here to the CTP. Most recently it's this lovely Olympia SM-9 SM-8 from 1974 or '75:
As I sat down to do this typecast, I really got into the feel of this typewriter. I haven't been sold on Olympias before. Even my favorite SG-1 sometimes feels stiff and heavy. This one couldn't be any more different. The platen is still soft and it makes for the perfect typing experience. I have to say I love it. It's a little tinny, but very solid in key feel. My personal opinion on the styling is a little more harsh.
The SG-1 is a fine precision instrument. Even the more worn-in SM-9 (another donation not from Tim) is still very high quality. It feels as if some areas of quality were compromised in the name of profitability. Some of the metal is a little thinner. The finish isn't as fine. The fit is very good, but not as precise.
My reservations are a collector's reservations. If you are a young typist and are looking for a forever machine, this little guy might be the ticket. I already have some kids looking at this one.
