With the Splendid 33, Olympia created a typewriter that embodies the quality DNA of the SM series and offers the same typing experience as its larger siblings. The color changer was omitted, but it offers features like manual margin adjustment, which was anything but standard in the ultra-portable class.
Olympia's ultra-portable typewriter was a market leader in its class. Compact, lightweight, reliable, and equipped with an integrated carrying case, it was considered a robust workhorse, particularly popular with journalists and reporters.
This particular typewriter left the factory in Wilhelmshaven in 1964 – its patinated appearance speaks of age and history. The minor wear and scratches show that it was a well-traveled and frequently used workhorse. No wonder, since it is extremely precise and reliable. Typing is fast and fluid, the typebars don't jam, and the keystroke requires hardly any effort. It features a German keyboard and a classic, easy-to-read typeface – ideal for letters, diaries, essays, cards, postcards, labels, or typewriter art projects.
Although its gently curved lines embody the mid-century style of the 1960s, it is not a particularly feminine typewriter. The metal casing and Olympia mechanism lend it a certain technical rigor. The cream-colored casing (RAL 1013/1015 Mix) is accentuated by pale green details (RAL 6021), typical of Olympia's design philosophy. It is not only a faithful companion for offline life but also makes a striking statement piece in any modern interior.
Aesthetic condition: After thorough cleaning, care, and polishing, the plastic case, metal casing, and chrome surfaces have regained their original shine. Signs of use are still visible on the casing – they tell the story of this machine. The plastic case and the clasp are intact, without structural damage, clean, and restored to their original color through bleaching.
Technical condition: Thanks to thorough cleaning, maintenance, and fine-tuning, all mechanisms function perfectly. The rubber roller and all rubber parts were also specially cleaned and conditioned—which can extend the machine's lifespan by several more decades.
Only silicone oil-, wax-, and carcinogen-free products were used in the restoration.
This typewriter is fully documented in the International Typewriter Database (TWDB).
Technical Specifications
Category: Ultra-portable
Type: Olympia Splendid 33
Manufacturer: Olympia-Werke AG
West Germany - Wilhelmshaven
S/N (Year of Manufacture): 95-0947808 / 1964
Housing: Metal
Case: HIPS plastic
Mechanics & Chassis: Metal
Keyboard: QWERTZ with ä, ö, ü, ß
Font: Pica 10 cpi
Color: Cream RAL 1013/1015 Mix
Pale green RAL 6021
Ribbon: Size 1 / DIN 2103 (solid)
Dimensions: W 30, D 30, H 11 cm, 4.5 kg
Scope of Delivery:
Splendid 33 with original case
High-quality indigo-violet ribbon (newly installed; also available with black upon request)
Type holder lock for safe transport (Handmade)
Notes:
The photos were taken by me. Since colors may vary on different screens, please refer to the color description provided.
Before packaging, the typewriter is fitted with a high-quality ribbon, and all functions are tested again.
Shipping is insured via DHL in careful, professional packaging.
I offer a 14-day right of return; however, the buyer is responsible for return shipping costs.
farbenundklang is a private project; therefore, this is a private sale. An invoice cannot be issued.
Specifications
ConditionGoodColorsBeige, CremeMaterialPlastic, MetalNumber of items1Height8 cmWidth31 cmDepth31 cm