In a nostalgic turn of events, vintage typewriters are experiencing a resurgence in popularity, thanks in part to cultural icons like Taylor Swift, who featured a Bridal 10 typewriter in her recent music video for \"Fortnite.\" This renewed interest has sparked a \"typewriter bull market,\" according to Bill Rota, co-owner of Philly Typewriter, where prices for sought-after models have skyrocketed as collectors and enthusiasts flock to the shop.
The typewriter, invented in the 1870s, revolutionized the workplace and played a significant role in women's entry into the workforce. However, the rise of personal computers in the 1980s led to a decline in typewriter use. Today, many are drawn to the tactile experience of writing on a typewriter, seeking a break from the distractions of digital devices. As one young enthusiast, Tristan Gwanzan, noted, the analog process allows for a more connected and thoughtful writing experience.
Philly Typewriter, recognized as the world's largest typewriter company, not only sells vintage machines but also repairs and rebuilds them, with a waitlist for repairs currently 50 names deep. The shop's co-owner, Brian Kravitz, has been working on typewriters since 1975 and emphasizes the mechanical beauty of these machines, contrasting them with the invisible workings of computers.
Collectors are now actively seeking unique designs and historical models, with some even adjusting their living situations to accommodate their growing collections. For many, typewriters represent a blend of nostalgia and artistry, serving as a reminder of the beauty of the written word in an increasingly digital world.