A special collection landed in the Hamptons this week, care of Tom Hanks—the world’s one true pleasure to have in class.
As real ones know, Mr. Hanks has long nursed a fetish for typewriters. He spotlit the technology in his debut story collection, Uncommon Type. And recently appeared in a documentary “valentine” called California Typewriter, alongside fellow clackity-clackheads Sam Shepard, David McCullough, and John Mayer. (Yes, you read that last one right.)
I like to think Tom’s collection was inspired by this scene from You’ve Got Mail, in which his cast-mate Greg Kinnear made a kind of love to the Olympia Report Deluxe Electric. But theories proliferate. Anyway, who knows why obsessions bloom? Leo DiCaprio has his Star Wars toys. Tom’s got his typies. The point is, we layfolk finally get to see them up close.
As The Guardian reports, some thirty primo models from Hanks’ 300+ collection of obsolescent word processors are now on display at The Church in Sag Harbor. Humbly named “Some of Tom’s Typewriters,” the exhibit was curated by Simon Doonan, the former Barney’s creative director. It runs through March 10th and is of a piece with recent Church programming that purports to explore “material culture.”
For those of us who can’t come see the magic machines in person, I’ve assembled a wee sneak preview. To paraphrase Doonan, a typewriter museum is kind of like a box of chocolates. In that the one you select says at least as much about you as Tom Hanks.
The Hermes 3000
If this portable calls your name, you’re prone to moderation. You’re the sane friend. Probably a Libra. You like a well-paced thriller, a reasonable bedtime, and solving puzzles in a group. Oh, yeah—this little baby befits an Apollo 13 lass. Tom’s got the 1966 model, with chic mint keys and a grey body.
The Olivetti Valentine
Like this disruptive number from Italian designer Ettore Sottsass, you’re known for a “bright, rebellious” aspect. You’re effectively the mayor of your social group, and refuse to take lumps lying down. But you’ve got a sense of humor. And when your pride’s not going before the fall, you can be playful. Kind of like Sheriff Woody.
The Robotron
You’re direct, efficient, and to-the-point. This Cold War import from the Eastern Bloc (technical name: VEB Kombinat Robotron) suits your head for business. It’s not personal, it’s business. Whether squeezing a band for a second single or destroying a small business on the Upper West Side, you show no sentiment and brook no compromises. No time for frills or foreplay. You’ve got dollars and deals to make.
The Petite
This English Petite Toy Typewriter is fun to look at, but not technically functional. Sort of like your canine sidekick when it comes to police work. Why is the universe constantly playing tricks on you like this? You’re just a good cop, trying to live right!
The Blickensderfer Featherweight
The MacGyver’d aesthetic of this OG portable appeals to you, because you had to do a fair share of DIY on the island. You respect effort, patience, and a timely rescue. But you’re resourceful when you have to be. A maverick by circumstance, if not by choice.
There are plenty of other models on display. Standard Underwoods for the sleepless. Remingtons for the soldier with a savior complex. Peruse the catalogue for more marvels you can count on.
(And remember to say, thanks, Hanks.)
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