Royal is one of the most inventive names in American typewriter history. In 1914 the Royal 5 introduced the flatbed design — a completely flat writing surface struck from above, eliminating the blind spot of the old curved 'segment' machines. It was a genuine leap forward, and for the next two decades nearly every maker followed Royal's lead.
History
The Royal Typewriter Company was founded in Brooklyn, NY in 1904 by Edward B. Hess and partners. The Royal 5 of 1914 set a new industry standard and became one of the biggest hits of the 1910s–20s. Royal introduced its portable in 1926, and the 1939 Royal Quiet De Luxe — beautiful and superbly balanced — became a collector's classic.
In the 1950s Royal added the HH and other office machines and entered the electric age. Litton Industries bought the company in 1969; the name survives today as Royal Consumer Information Products. On today's market the Quiet De Luxe and the 1950s–60s Safari are the most sought after.
What makes it special
- The flatbed revolution — The 1914 Royal 5 flatbed changed the entire industry.
- Quiet De Luxe legend — Launched in 1939, beloved for looks and feel; an evergreen on the collector market.
- Colorful late portables — The 1950s–60s Safari and friends are prized for their playful color schemes.
Classic models
| Model | Year | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Royal 5 | 1914 | The flatbed revolution |
| Royal Portable | 1926 | First Royal portable |
| Royal Quiet De Luxe | 1939 | Collector-favourite portable |
| Royal HH | 1950 | Classic office machine |
| Royal Safari | 1958 | Colorful late portable |
Serial number dating (estimate)
Serial numbers give a rough production era. Precise dating needs the brand's official serial handbook.
| Period | Meaning |
|---|---|
| 1904 – 1913 | Early models (1–10 series) |
| 1914 – 1925 | Royal 5 era |
| 1926 – 1938 | First portables |
| 1939 – 1957 | Quiet De Luxe to HH |
| 1958 – 1969 | Late models before Litton |
Try it out
Want to try typing on a vintage machine or estimate a serial number? Both are free, in your browser.
More brands: Olivetti, Remington, Royal, Smith-Corona, Hermès, Olympia, IBM Selectric.