It's a strange serial number, so strange that I wouldn't rule out the possibility that it's a typo I have at least two machines with serial numbers that were screwed up when they engraved into the frame, so it is a viable explanation. I was hoping that the photo would show an S in front of that second 7, which is why I asked for it, but it's definitely a 7. The character set conspicuously lacks the number. I suppose it's always possible that on those odd machines that they keys were replaced at some point for the later generation type. The Olivetti Lettera 32 is a portable mechanical typewriter designed by Marcello Nizzoli for Olivetti in 1963 as. An interesting anomaly of this model is the lack of a number 1 key the thinking being that it could be produced from a lowercase l key. I have a '62 model and it has the squared keys (they're grey too instead of black), but the problem is that I've found a few exceptions to that rule. I haven't been able to prove it definitively yet, but I have always assumed that the 22s with the round keys were '50s machines, and the more squared key models from the early '60s. If you're looking for a slimmer classic foreign '50s typewriter that can still be used frequently and heavily, then this is a great choice to go with.After 1961, the serial numbering sequence changed, together with the keytops becoming square and the blue finish looking more like that of its' successor - the Lettera 32. This shouldn't be a major issue, however care should be taken while zipping the case. The original leather case is in good shape overall, however the zipper on the left-hand side has separated from the fabric a bit.
This typewriter also comes with the original owner's manual, a small typing mat, and a dust cover. Unfortunately this typewriter does not use universal ribbons, however Olivetti ribbons are readily for sale on eBay- otherwise you could re-thread the spools just as I did.
Everything works perfectly on this typewriter right down to the bell.
The touch on this typewriter is rather light and springy-feeling, so it doesn't take too much energy to use for long periods of time. This typewriter is in great shape both cosmetically and mechanically- almost near mint. If the serial number is shown as a range (xxxx-xxxx) it indicates that we know the entire range of serial numbers for the given year. The font on this typewriter is a unique and rather pretty proprietary typeface (see second picture for type sample). Unfortunately the serial number records for this model are rather unreliable and incomplete, so I can not provide an exact year of manufacture, however this machine was made on the earlier side of Lettera 22 production.
Up for sale is an interesting early Olivetti Lettera 22 which was made sometime in the early 1950s in Italy.
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