Antique Typewriters

The Martin Howard Collection

Comprised of typewriters from the earliest years of the industry (1870–1900), the collection features many rare and historically significant machines that showcase the remarkable diversity and beauty of an invention that revolutionized communication.

The collection has been featured in various public displays and exhibitions, including the Academy Awards and the Royal Ontario Museum.

“Calling all Gadgetgeeks! Very early days of keyboards: It’s like the Burgess Shale of Typewriters! Incredible!” – Margaret Atwood

Selling a Typewriter

The collector

Martin is based in Toronto, Canada, where he has dedicated years to building a collection of the world’s first typewriters. He loves restoring and researching these historic machines.

Martin has appeared on television and radio and is featured in the award-winning documentary California Typewriter.

exhibits

This unique collection is available for displays and exhibits.

buy & sell

If you're looking for a typewriter or wish to sell one—or even an entire collection—I would be pleased to assist you.

restoration

I would be happy to discuss your restoration needs.

CALIFORNIA TYPEWRITER

Martin and his collection are featured in Doug Nichol’s full-length documentary California Typewriter which premiered at the Telluride Film Festival in 2016.

The film explores the role of the typewriter in today’s culture, the creative relationships people have with them and how the typewriter can provide an alternative path in our digital age.

“It’s really about how we create art.”
– New York Times

“Agile, deeply affectionate”
– Time

more about the film