Accession Number: 2003.16
Description: The ink-print typewriter is designed for blind users. The character to be typed is selected by sliding an indicator along a metal plate on the top right of the machine. The plate has two rows of raised braille characters, with corresponding gilt print characters shown above. The indicator is connected to and turns the typing wheel as the braille is selected. The user pushes down two levers on the left of the machine to position the typing wheel for upper or lower case letters or for numbers/symbols. Then, a front lever is pushed in, which moves the typing wheel along an attached ink roller and toward the open platen, where it makes contact with the paper and prints the letter. The typewriter has an end of line bell. A removable pin fits into 4 holes in a bar at the back of the machine to set margin stops at 1-inch intervals. The platen, with a right-end rolling knob, is manually returned by pushing it while holding in the front lever. The typewriter is secured to the base of the wooden case. The lid of the case lifts off. It has hook fasteners on the sides and a leather handle on the front. "Schreibmaschine Picht" appears in gilt lettering on the metal plate.
Date Made: ca. 1907
Maker: Picht, Oskar
Place of Origin: Germany
Credit Line: Museum Purchase, 2003.16
Subjects: Assistive technology Braille Mechanical writing Typewriting
Dimension Notes: 3 1/2 x 12 1/4 x 5 1/4 in. typewriter ; 4 1/2 x 13 1/4 x 6 1/4 in. case
Made: Picht, Oskar
Material: Steel, wood, leather
Updated: 06/29/2016