1951 Blue Bird Model 18B Typewriter "Made in Germany—U.S. Zone"

This is a fine example of an early, Torpedo manufactured, Model 18B typewriter, from 1951. It was made by the Torpedo company in Germany and marketed in the UK as the "Blue Bird". Look at the beautiful imprint on the paper tray that says "Made in Germany — U.S. Zone". The Torpedo company ended up in the U.S.-controlled region of Germany after the war and continued to produce highest quality typewriters. But the question arose: Why would anyone amongst the "allies" —and especially in post-war UK—want to buy or use a machine with "Torpedo" on it. Certainly no one from the British Navy!
That notwithstanding, there are reasons why the Model 18, labelled Blue Bird or Torpedo, is one of the most coveted of typewriters. It is a solid work-horse and this one is in excellent condition cosmetically and in top working condition mechanically. The typing action is wonderfully fast, soft and solid. Collectors and users alike sing the praises of the Model 18 typewriter. This one comes with the original hard case.
The Model 18 "B", like this one, is the preferred model as it comes with a tabulator system that the Model 18 "A" does not come with.
The body finish is in very fine condition, with very few signs of use or age. Mechanically it is in perfect working order. The rubber feet are in fine condition and grip the desktop well. The platen is clean and smooth. This typewriter is ready for fine typing for another 7 decades. It comes with the original metal ribbon spools. This typewriter has been fully restored: cleaned, adjusted, lubricated and aligned. It comes with a full mechanical guarantee.
The hard case is in good, solid condition although it is rather worn as you can see from the photos. But it will serve well to transport or store this typewriter.
The typeface is a lovely Elite with 11.5 characters to the inch (see photo). The keyboard is standard QWERTY and you can see in the photos an example of the crisp, clear and dark letters that this machine produces. 
Acme typewriters has long been the choice of discerning collectors and writers. Acme typewriters are carefully selected, beautifully restored and come with a one-year mechanical warranty and lifetime customer-service. Each comes with a lead seal, attached to the body, identifying it as a fully-restored Acme typewriter. Most shipments to the US arrive in 3 days--often much faster than most domestic shipments within the US. Many new dealers strive to imitate us--none succeed. 
For some interesting perspectives on the Model 18 typewriter, please see:
https://typewriterreview.com/2015/02/19/torpedo-18/
This fine example of a Model 18 typewriter will be packed and shipped with the greatest care to preserve its condition and beauty. We have a lot of experience in shipping typewriters and have an excellent track record for proper packing and safe delivery.
See my buyer reviews on Etsy and you will have confidence in your purchase. And don't hesitate to ask for more photos or message me with any questions.