These old IBM electric typewriters rocked the business scene in the 1950s

New and improved office work In the '50s, IBM electric typewriters rocked the business scene

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“Secretary” — that’s the job for me! (1953)

Other things being equal, what girl wouldn’t prefer a job that includes an IBM Electric Typewriter? It’s so easy to use, and turns out such beautiful letters and reports.

With an IBM, you’ll do your typing almost effortlessly, and with no errors due to fatigue. To the executive, an IBM means faster typing, and better-looking letters that are a pleasure to sign. For an illustrated brochure, write or telephone your nearest IBM office.

Sep 21, 1953 Secretary job typewriter


No, the IBM Electric can’t handle the petty cash but… (1957)

…it will produce better typing … save time and money, too!

The IBM gives you typing to be proud of — always uniform no matter what touch a typist uses. And it saves time and energy because the IBM requires 95.4% less “finger-effort” than a manual.

Best of all, the IBM is the world’s simplest electric typewriter in design and operation, the most dependable in performance.

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The IBM saves money, too, because it helps turn out more typing in less time — helps handle more business without added secretarial expense.

And remember, IBM is the world leader in electric typewriter progress — the only electric available with proportional spacing and electronic tabulating.

The IBM gives you typing to be proud of (1957)

MORE: Vintage portable & manual typewriters from the 50s, 60s & 70s had the best then-new features


No, the IBM Electric can’t do the filing but… (1956)

…no other typewriter gives a girl so much help in her job—gives a boss such a cut in typing costs!

IBM electric typewriter from 1956


First class mail with IBM electric typewriters (1951)

Appearance is just as important in letters as it is in people… or products.

Every letter typed on an IBM Electric makes a perfect impression, has the distinctive personality which assures a friendly reception. Turning out first-class work is simple with an IBM Electric. It is so easy to use… so responsive to your lightest touch… so saving of your time and energy.

MORE: Vintage copy machines: See the kinds of old photocopiers that offices used to have

Apr 23, 1951 IBM electric typewriter


Letters of credit: Typewritten benefits (1951)

Feb 19, 1951 IBM typewriter

ALSO SEE: How do you use a rotary-dial phone? Find out, plus get top telephone tips from the olden days


Letters can be beautiful, too! With the new IBM electric typewriters (1953)

Letters can be beautiful too - 1953 typewriter


This is the new IBM electric typewriter (1959)

New IBM electric typewriter from 1959


Vintage IBM electric typewriters: Secretary and boss agree… (1955)

The IBM electric typewriters — Executive model — is so easy to use!

secretary


Partners in perfection (1952)

Touch the keys and IBM Electric Typewriter, and you’ll realize instantly that here is a real partner in turning out beautiful work.

An IBM is so easy to operate. Finger and arm travel are reduced to a minimum. You save time and energy.

Give this partnership the advantages of specially designed IBM Ribbons and Carbon Paper and you have the perfect combination for quality typing production. You and your company, too, deserve the beneath of these partners in perfection.

INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINES

LIFE Jun 9, 1952 IBM typewriter


Vintage IBM electric typewriters: Letter perfect! (1950)

Together, you and your IBM Electric Typewriter will tum out the most beautiful and distinctive-looking work you’ve ever seen. Wherever your letters go, their fine appearance will reflect credit on you and on your company.

Every day, you’ll enjoy the easier operation of true touch typing. You’ll type faster, using far less energy doing it. You’ll be able to devote more time to other important work — a fact your employer will appreciate.

So many advantages are yours with an IBM Electric Typewriter, you’ll certainly want to try one without delay.

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LIFE Feb 13, 1950 IBM typewriters


Letters of credit  (1951)

Jacksonville, Fla. “My speed has picked up at least 40 words a minute now that I have an IBM Electric Typewriter…”

LIFE Feb 19, 1951 IBM typewriter

ALSO SEE: 50+ sexist vintage ads so bad, you almost won’t believe they were real

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