A Guide to your Hermes 3000 (50’s, Rounded)

Hermes 3000 Video Tutorial

This is one of the most beautiful machines in history: I hope it brings you many nights of written rapture.

MAKE SURE YOU WATCH THE VIDEO SO YOU DON’T DROP THE MACHINE OTU OF THE CASE BY ACCIDENT.

The margins are automatic, and take some getting used to... but if you check the manual, and train yourself, you should get the hang of it quickly.

Each machine has it's own little marks or quirks, by nature of it being a 70 year old machine. I get the best one I can in the moment. Usually I try to balance excellent cosmetics with immaculate insides and a beautiful typing experience.

One thing... some people put the domed ribbon cover on incorrectly, and scratch it. There are two tabs on the bottom of the top cover, and they need to go inside of the body when replacing the cover, first. Countless machines have huge scuffs here from doing this incorrectly (jamming the cover on with the two teeth outside of the body). So just an FWY to spare you that.

MAKE SURE when lifting the case that it is fully latched. A pristine 60 year old machine may not survive one deadly drop. That is the most likely time to drop. It's partially latched in and the back falls out of the case! So be wary!

These take a universal ribbon size, which is fortunate. I've included vintage ribbon spools.'

Take it slowly at first, and do not force anything. The margins on these things can take some getting used to.

Here is the manual.

Here you can get a ribbon.

Here is the handmade paper that your note came on.

PS. I offer a trade in policy, in case you want to upgrade or change machines in the future.

A little history:

The Hermes 3000 typewriter, introduced in 1958 by the Swiss company Paillard, quickly gained a reputation for its precision engineering and sleek design. Known for its light touch and smooth typing action, it became a favorite among writers and journalists.

Key Features and Development:1958: The Hermes 3000 is launched, featuring a distinctive mint-green color and a lightweight, portable design.1960s: The typewriter gains popularity for its durable metal body, integrated carrying handle, and innovative features like a built-in ribbon cover and easy-to-use controls.1970s: Improvements are made, including a curved keyboard and an even smoother typing mechanism, maintaining its status as a top choice for professionals.

Notable Users:

Jack Kerouac: The acclaimed American novelist and poet famously used the Hermes 3000 to type his later works.

Sylvia Plath: The renowned poet and novelist was known to have used a Hermes 3000 for her writing.

Larry McMurtry: The Pulitzer Prize-winning author of "Lonesome Dove" and other works often praised his Hermes 3000, calling it his "favorite typewriter."