Own an extraordinary piece of early 20th-century British industrial design with this rare 1920s Antique Black Bar-Let Model 1 Portable Typewriter.
Manufactured in Nottingham, England by the Bar-Lock (1925) Company (John Jardine Ltd), this iconic early pre-war machine features a deep gloss black body, bold gold foil typography, the Royal Crest decal, distinctive top ribbon spool covers, classic glass-topped 3-row keys, and its original protective carrying case.
A museum-grade centerpiece for authors, historians, poets, or serious vintage typewriter collectors!
Key Features & Highlights Brand & Model: Bar-Let Model 1 (Bar-Lock 1925 Company / John Jardine Ltd) Era: 1920s Pre-War Antique Origin: Made in Nottingham, England Color: Gloss Black with original gold foil typography, Royal Crest emblem, and front frame badge Keyboard: Classic early 3-row glass-topped keys with CAP, FIG, and BACK SPACE side shift mechanisms Design Detail: Early Model 1 style featuring top-mounted circular ribbon spool covers
Condition: Working antique condition; mechanical linkages move smoothly, clear strike mechanism, and intact key caps. Includes: Original protective carrying case for secure storage and travel.
Why You’ll Love It Rare Early Model 1 Design: Pre-war Bar-Let Model 1 units are notoriously difficult to find—especially complete with their case—featuring unique early design choices like covered spools and a 3-row glass key layout.
Preserved Gold Typography: Features bold foil lettering across the rear carriage bar, front badge, and the iconic Royal Crest decal. Dark Academia Masterpiece: The gloss black frame, glass key caps, and open mechanical linkages create an unforgettable vintage focal point for any study, desk, or bookshelf.
Condition Details
This typewriter is in working antique condition for a machine nearly a century old. It displays authentic, age-appropriate cosmetic wear, including light patina on metal components, minor paint wear along the frame edges, and historic surface wear that adds to its authentic 1920s character. The carrying case shows age-appropriate vintage wear consistent with pre-war luggage. Please note that an ink ribbon is not included with this machine. Please inspect all high-resolution photos for close-up details.
What’s Included 1 x Antique 1920s Black Bar-Let Model 1 Typewriter (No ribbon included) 1 x Original Protective Carrying Case
Shipping & Packaging
Carefully double-boxed with extra-thick protective cushioning and carriage locked to ensure the heavy body frame, glass keys, and historic carrying case remain completely safe during transit. Estimated delivery dates and full tracking will be updated at checkout.