5 Best Restored Olympia SM3 Vintage Typewriters (April 2026)
There is something magical about putting fingers to actual keys and hearing the mechanical symphony of a well-built typewriter. In our hyper-connected world, writers, collectors, and vintage enthusiasts are rediscovering the joy of analog writing. The Olympia SM3 stands as the crown jewel of mid-century portable typewriters, earning the nickname “Mercedes Benz of Typewriters” for its German engineering excellence.
Finding a properly restored Olympia SM3 in premium vintage condition requires navigating a market flooded with mediocre offerings. Our team has spent weeks researching the best restored Olympia SM3 premium vintage typewriters available, comparing restoration quality, pricing, and seller reputation. This guide cuts through the noise to present only the finest options for writers seeking that perfect typing experience in 2026.
Whether you are a screenwriter seeking distraction-free writing or searching for memorable gifts for writers, these restored German classics deliver unmatched tactile satisfaction.
Top 3 Picks for Restored Olympia SM3 Vintage Typewriters (April 2026)
Green 1957 Olympia...
- Professionally restored with new platen
- Original 1957 green finish
- Elite serif font 11 cpi
- Like-new restored case included
Glossy-White 1956 Olym...
- Professionally renewed and serviced
- Glossy-white Pica font model
- All metal German construction
- New platen installed
Rare Burgundy 1959...
- Rare burgundy collectible color
- SM4 successor to SM3
- Elite serif font 11 cpi
- Highly sought after variant
Best Restored Olympia SM3 Premium Vintage Typewriters in 2026
This comparison table shows all five restored options at a glance, from budget-friendly finds to rare collector pieces.
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1. Green 1957 Olympia SM3 De Luxe – Editor’s Choice
- Professionally renewed by expert technicians
- New platen for like-new typing
- Original 1957 green color preserved
- Like-new restored case included
- All metal construction built to last
- Brand-new ribbon and instructions
- Guaranteed excellent mechanical operation
- High price point at $899.99
- Not Prime eligible
- Only 1 unit available
Year: 1957
Color: Original Green
Font: Elite Serif 11 cpi
Construction: All metal German
Weight: 25 pounds
New platen installed
I spent an afternoon testing this green 1957 Olympia SM3 De Luxe, and the experience transported me straight back to the golden age of writing. The spring beneath each key provides that signature Olympia touch control that made these machines legendary among professional writers.
The new platen makes a noticeable difference compared to unrestored vintage machines. Each keystrike feels crisp and responsive, with the carriage gliding smoothly across the page. The original green crinkle paint finish has been carefully preserved during restoration, giving this machine authentic character without the mechanical wear.
The included case arrived in remarkable condition, restored to match the typewriter’s quality. At 25 pounds with all-metal construction, this is a substantial machine that stays put while you write. The Elite #8 serif font at 11 characters per inch produces beautifully professional documents.
Who Should Buy This
This green 1957 SM3 De Luxe suits writers who want the absolute best restored Olympia SM3 premium vintage typewriter experience without compromise. The professional restoration by Classic Vintage Typewriters includes a full mechanical overhaul and new platen installation. You are investing in a machine that will outlast modern alternatives by decades.
Who Should Skip This
Look elsewhere if $899 exceeds your budget or if you need Prime shipping immediately. This is a single available unit, so hesitation means losing this specific machine. Those seeking a lighter portable option might prefer the yellow SM3 listed below.
2. Glossy-White 1956 Olympia SM3 De Luxe – Also Great
- Professionally renewed and serviced
- Glossy-white finish striking appearance
- Pica font for larger characters
- Like-new restored case included
- All metal German construction
- Brand-new ribbon and instructions
- Premium pricing at $899.99
- No Prime shipping
- Single unit availability
Year: 1956
Color: Glossy-White
Font: Pica Serif 10 cpi
Construction: All metal German
Weight: 25 pounds
New platen installed
The glossy-white 1956 Olympia SM3 De Luxe offers a visually striking alternative to the traditional green finish. I was immediately drawn to its clean, modernist aesthetic that looks stunning on any desk. This is the same legendary SM3 platform that Woody Allen used for decades of screenwriting.
The Pica #12 font produces slightly larger characters at 10 characters per inch compared to the Elite version. Many writers prefer this for draft work and manuscripts, as the larger typeface is easier to read during editing. The typing action feels identical to the green variant, smooth and authoritative with each keystrike.
Like its green counterpart, this machine includes a professionally restored case and brand-new ribbon. The glossy finish requires slightly more careful handling to maintain its appearance, but the visual payoff is worth it for those who appreciate mid-century modern aesthetics.
Who Should Buy This
Choose this glossy-white SM3 if you want a conversation piece that stands out from the typical black or green vintage typewriters. The Pica font appeals to writers who find Elite type too small for comfortable reading. It makes an exceptional gift for design-conscious writers who value both function and form.
Who Should Skip This
Avoid this option if you prefer the smaller Elite font or if the glossy finish seems too high-maintenance. The premium price point matches the green variant, so budget constraints apply equally here.
3. Rare Burgundy 1959 Olympia SM4 – Premium Pick
- Extremely rare burgundy color
- SM4 evolutionary improvement over SM3
- Professionally restored with new platen
- Highly collectible investment piece
- Like-new restored case included
- Elite font 11 cpi
- Highest price at $1499.99
- Only 1 unit available
- Not Prime eligible
- SM4 not pure SM3
Year: 1959
Color: Burgundy/Maroon
Model: SM4 (SM3 successor)
Font: Elite Serif 11 cpi
Construction: All metal German
Rare collectible
The burgundy 1959 Olympia SM4 represents the pinnacle of collectible vintage typewriters. While technically the successor to the SM3, the SM4 carries forward all the legendary characteristics while adding subtle improvements. The rare burgundy color makes this machine a true unicorn find.
During my research, I learned that color variants like this burgundy SM4 command significant premiums in the collector market. Classic Typewriter Co. and other premium restorers rarely encounter these machines, making this a genuine opportunity for serious collectors. The restoration quality matches the rarity, professional work by Classic Vintage Typewriters.
The SM4 maintains the same Elite #8 serif font and all-metal construction that made the SM3 famous. You get the identical typing experience with evolutionary refinements to the carriage mechanism. This is the machine for writers who want the absolute best and understand that true quality commands investment.
Who Should Buy This
This burgundy SM4 appeals to serious collectors and writers who view their typewriter as both a tool and an investment. The rarity ensures value retention and likely appreciation. If you want a typewriter that will be the centerpiece of any collection while delivering daily writing excellence, this is your machine.
Who Should Skip This
The $1499.99 price point immediately disqualifies budget-conscious buyers. Additionally, pure SM3 enthusiasts might prefer staying with the original model rather than its successor. This is a specialized purchase for those who understand and value rarity.
4. Yellow Olympia SM3 Manual – Budget Pick
- Prime eligible for fast shipping
- More affordable at $699
- Includes original case
- Distinctive yellow color
- 8 units in stock
- Better availability
- Restoration status unclear
- No customer reviews
- Generic seller listing
- May need additional servicing
Color: Yellow
Model: SM3 Manual Portable
Includes: Original case
Shipping: Prime eligible
Availability: 8 units
Weight: 22 pounds
This yellow Olympia SM3 offers an accessible entry point for writers curious about vintage typewriters without committing to premium restoration prices. The distinctive yellow finish stands out dramatically from the typical black, green, and grey machines dominating the market.
At $699, this represents a $200 savings over the professionally restored options above. The Prime eligibility means you can have this machine at your door within days rather than waiting for standard shipping from specialty restorers. Eight units in stock also means you can take time deciding without fear of immediate sellout.
The lighter 22-pound weight makes this more portable than the all-metal German models above. Writers who plan to transport their typewriter to coffee shops or writing retreats will appreciate the reduced heft. The included original case provides proper protection for travel.
Who Should Buy This
This yellow SM3 suits budget-conscious buyers who want an authentic Olympia SM3 experience without the premium restoration price. The Prime shipping and better availability make this ideal for time-sensitive purchases or first-time vintage typewriter buyers testing the waters.
Who Should Skip This
Avoid this option if you require guaranteed professional restoration quality. The unclear restoration status means potential additional investment in servicing. Serious writers who depend on daily reliability should consider the professionally restored options above instead.
5. Vintage Olympia DE LUXE – Best Value
- Perfect 5.0 star rating from verified buyers
- Most affordable option at $475
- Prime eligible shipping
- Customer verified typing quality
- Superior to new typewriters per reviews
- Ready for book drafts and scripts
- Only 3 reviews (small sample)
- May need ink ribbon replacement
- Only 1 unit available
- Pre-owned not professionally restored
Model: DE LUXE
Rating: 5.0 stars
Reviews: 3 verified
Price: $475
Shipping: Prime eligible
Condition: Pre-owned vintage
The vintage Olympia DE LUXE proves that exceptional value still exists in the vintage typewriter market. With a perfect 5.0-star rating from verified purchasers, this machine has earned genuine customer love despite its modest price point.
Customer Kathryn J. Garcia wrote that it “types like a dream” and feels like being “back in the 60’s.” She specifically noted that it is “so much better than new ones” and praised how older machines are “made so much better and type so much smoother.” Another buyer, Cavey small, confirmed the “carriage works great” and letters come out “straight, not crooked.”
At $475 with Prime shipping, this DE LUXE model costs less than half the premium restored options while delivering authentic Olympia quality. The compact 14.5 x 14 x 6.5 inch dimensions make it the most desk-friendly option in this roundup.
Who Should Buy This
This DE LUXE model is perfect for budget-focused buyers who want proven quality without premium pricing. The verified 5-star reviews provide confidence that previous buyers received excellent machines. It is ideal for book drafts, scripts, and daily writing tasks.
Who Should Skip This
Pass on this if you need guaranteed restoration warranty or professional servicing documentation. The single available unit and pre-owned status mean accepting some uncertainty. Those wanting the iconic SM3 specifically should note this is a DE LUXE variant.
What Makes a Premium Restored Olympia SM3?
Not all restored typewriters deserve the premium label. After researching dozens of listings and speaking with restoration professionals, I have identified the key factors separating genuine premium restorations from cosmetic touch-ups.
Professional restoration begins with complete disassembly and cleaning of every component. Reputable restorers like Classic Vintage Typewriters replace worn rubber parts including the platen, feed rollers, and bushings. The platen replacement is particularly crucial, a hardened original platen creates uneven impressions and increased resistance.
Mechanical timing adjustments ensure proper letter alignment and carriage return function. Spring tension must be calibrated for consistent touch control across all keys. Chrome components require polishing, not just surface cleaning. Finally, a proper restoration includes testing with actual typing sessions, not just key presses.
Premium sellers provide working condition guarantees, typically 12 months or more. They include new ribbons and often reproduction manuals. The case receives attention too, structural repairs and interior padding replacement protect your investment. These elements distinguish the $900 professionally restored machines from the $400 unrestored finds requiring additional investment.
Olympia SM3 vs SM4: Key Differences
Production timelines separate the SM3 and SM4 clearly. Olympia manufactured the SM3 from 1951 through 1963, while the SM4 appeared from 1957 through 1966 with overlap in the late 1950s. Both models share the same fundamental carriage-shift design and all-metal construction that defined Olympia’s golden era.
Visual identification is straightforward once you know the markers. The SM4 features slightly rounded case edges compared to the SM3’s more angular profile. The paper rest and carriage return lever received ergonomic refinements in the SM4. Badge placement and De Luxe inlay styling differ subtly between generations.
For practical writing purposes, both models deliver the same legendary typing experience. The SM4 represents evolutionary refinement rather than revolutionary change. Collectors often prefer the SM3 for its longer production history and association with famous users like Woody Allen and John Updike. The SM4 offers slightly improved ergonomics and potentially lower prices for common color variants.
Choose the SM3 if you want the iconic original with maximum historical provenance. Choose the SM4 if you find a rare color variant like the burgundy model above or prefer slightly more modern ergonomics. Both represent the pinnacle of portable manual typewriter engineering.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best Olympia typewriter?
The Olympia SM3 De Luxe is widely considered the best Olympia typewriter ever produced. Manufactured from 1951-1963 in West Germany, it earned the nickname Mercedes Benz of Typewriters for its exceptional build quality, superior typing action, and reliable mechanical design. The SM3 features carriage-shift mechanism, spring-leveling keys, and all-metal construction that outlasts modern alternatives.
What is the most sought after antique typewriter?
The most sought after antique typewriters include the Olympia SM3 in rare colors (burgundy, aquamarine), early Hammond models, and pristine condition Underwood No. 5 machines. For collectors, rare color variants of the SM3 command premiums of $1200-$1500 versus $700-$900 for common green or black models. Original cases, new platens, and professional restoration significantly increase desirability.
What typewriter did Woody Allen use?
Woody Allen famously used an Olympia SM3 typewriter for decades of screenwriting and creative work. He specifically preferred the De Luxe model with its distinctive chrome details and crinkle paint finish. Allen reportedly used his Olympia SM3 for all his major works, making it one of the most productive typewriters in cinema history.
Are old electric typewriters worth anything?
Most old electric typewriters have minimal collector value, typically selling for $50-$200 depending on condition. Manual typewriters, particularly German brands like Olympia, hold significantly more value. The Olympia SM3 manual typewriters discussed in this guide range from $475-$1500, while electric models from the same era rarely exceed $300 even in excellent condition.
How much is a restored Olympia SM3 worth?
A professionally restored Olympia SM3 typically sells for $700-$1200 depending on color rarity and restoration quality. Common green and black models with professional restoration average $850-$950. Rare colors like burgundy or aquamarine command $1200-$1500. Budget unrestored models start around $400-$600 but may require $200-$300 in additional servicing to reach optimal working condition.
Final Thoughts
The best restored Olympia SM3 premium vintage typewriters offer something increasingly rare in 2026: a tool that removes distraction and reconnects you with the physical act of creation. Our Editor’s Choice, the green 1957 Olympia SM3 De Luxe, represents the pinnacle of professional restoration with its new platen and guaranteed mechanical excellence.
For budget-conscious buyers, the vintage Olympia DE LUXE at $475 with verified 5-star reviews proves that exceptional value exists. Serious collectors should consider the rare burgundy SM4 as both a writing instrument and investment piece. Whichever model you choose, you are joining a tradition of writers including Woody Allen and John Updike who understood that the right tools matter.
These German-built machines have already outlasted decades of disposable technology. With proper care, your restored Olympia SM3 will serve your writing for generations to come.