The Royal Portable Typewriter project began in 1926, featuring a standard four-row keyboard layout, dual shift keys, and a sturdy black wooden carrying case covered in durable fabric, making the machine both practical and truly portable. The first version, known as the Mod.P1, can be immediately recognized by its exposed ribbon spools; approximately 260,000 units were produced between 1926 and 1930.
In 1930, the design underwent subtle aesthetic refinements: the body was redesigned to incorporate distinctive gull-wing ribbon covers, and the feet were changed to square rubber mounts with metal insert frames. This second version, known as Mod.P2, had a production run of approximately 160,000 units before the 1935 shell redesign introduced a more rounded corner profile. The example presented on this webpage was produced in 1931 and therefore represents the early-1930s redesign, widely regarded as the most elegant and sought-after version of the Royal Portable. Furthermore, is particularly rare and desirable thanks to a remarkable combination of features: its elegant red finish, preserved in good original condition, and the highly sought-after Royal Vogue typeface. Only a small number of Royal Portable typewriters were produced with this distinctive typeface, making examples such as this especially prized by collectors.
Some production variations to note: in 1932 was introduced a black economical version known as the Mod.O, while in 1934 the Mod.A was launched, adding a tabulator mechanism to the Portable line.
A complete restoration of a typewriter begins with the disassembly of the machine, followed by a thorough cleaning of all mechanical components, first using an ultrasonic bath and then rinse using a petroleum-based solvent.
Once cleaned, every component is carefully dried and reassembled, and then the internal mechanism is precisely lubricated to guarantee optimal performance. The mainspring is also dismantled, cleaned, and reassembled with fresh grease, ensuring consistent tension and smooth carriage movement.
The machine then undergoes a comprehensive adjustment process, including fine-tuning of the kinematics, ribbon lift, and upper/lower case alignment. Components subject to natural wear, such as the ink ribbon, rubber grommets, carriage drawcord, and any weakened springs, are replaced with new parts.
To restore a royal-portable Typewriter to perfect working condition, it is essential to rebuild the various rubber components, which over time tend to harden and eventually crumble completely. Feet, main platen, and both lower and front paper rollers—all must be renewed. Everything is made possible thanks to experience and specialized equipment. For more information, please visit this page.
The most prestigious typewriters were fitted with glass keytops, which offered far greater durability compared to the cheaper acetate-covered keys (the same material once used for cinema film), which tend to crack, deteriorate, and turn yellow with age. The main weakness of glass keytops is that any liquid penetrating beneath the glass can permanently damage the paper insert carrying the letter, especially in the case of oil or petroleum-based substances.
For this reason, some keytops required careful disassembly and restoration. This is an extremely delicate process, as it requires removing the glass without breaking it and avoiding any damage to the metal bezel that secures it in place.
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.
