The Everest Mod. 44 is a portable typewriter produced in Milan from 1935 by Società Anonima Serio, one of the main Italian competitors of Olivetti. It was the second model introduced under the Everest brand and belongs to the intermediate category known as “studio” machines: portable, yet not excessively compact, designed for more intensive use than ordinary portables, while not quite reaching the performance standards of full office machines.
The example presented here is particularly rare and desirable thanks to a remarkable combination of features: its elegant matte red finish, preserved in good original condition, and the precious “Vogue” typeface, a European adaptation by the Iris type foundry of the more famous “Royal Vogue” used on selected portable machines produced by the American Royal Typewriter Company. The machine is also fitted with a prestigious glass-key keyboard, restored using an original set of Everest key legends, an intervention that has returned full authenticity and charm to the whole machine. This specimen belongs to the earliest production phase of the Mod. 44, as evidenced by its particularly low serial number and by the rear decal bearing the company’s original name: “A&G Carish & C – MILANO.”.
Observing this machine and its advertisements immediately evokes the years of Italian autarky, conventionally considered to have begun precisely in 1935. Yet, setting aside certain stereotypes often associated with Italian industry of the period and carefully comparing the Everest with the more celebrated American competitors of the same segment — such as contemporary Royal machines — reveals surprisingly advanced technical and qualitative solutions, in many respects even superior. Thanks to a careful restoration, this Everest Mod. 44 has once again become not only an important collector’s piece, but also a perfectly usable writing machine: ideal for composing elegant letters with a typeface that is both unique and instantly recognizable.
To remove the stubborn dirt accumulated over decades of neglect, traditional methods such as kerosene and brushes are often insufficient. Residues like dried correction fluid, eraser debris, hardened grease, and biological deposits require a more advanced approach. For this reason, a custom-built ultrasonic cleaning tank is employed, specifically designed for typewriter restoration. Using cavitation generated by high-frequency waves, microscopic bubbles implode against the components, providing a deep mechanical cleaning action enhanced by a mild soap solution. After ultrasonic treatment, all parts are rinsed in white petrol to remove residual moisture and prevent oxidation before lubrication and reassembly.
At the end of the restoration, the typewriter undergoes a complete functional test. A final test certificate—typed on the machine itself, signed, and stamped—is issued as proof of successful inspection and completion of the service.
