Tom Hanks is a name synonymous with Hollywood, boasting a film career spanning over four decades. However, what many may not know is that this Oscar-winning actor has a secret passion – collecting vintage typewriters. With a collection of over 200 machines, Hanks has become somewhat of a connoisseur in the world of typewriters. But what typewriter does Tom Hanks use? In this article, we’ll delve into the world of Hanks’ typewriter collection, exploring the machines that have captured his heart and inspired his creativity.
A Brief History of Tom Hanks’ Typewriter Collection
Tom Hanks’ fascination with typewriters began in the 1970s, when he was a young actor trying to make a name for himself in Hollywood. During this time, he stumbled upon a vintage typewriter in a thrift store, which sparked a lifelong passion for collecting these machines. Over the years, Hanks has amassed an impressive collection of over 200 typewriters, each with its unique history and character.
The Early Years: Hanks’ First Typewriters
Hanks’ first typewriter was a Hermes 3000, a portable machine that he purchased in the 1970s. This typewriter marked the beginning of his collection, and he has since gone on to acquire some of the rarest and most sought-after machines in the world.
A Hermes 3000: A Closer Look
The Hermes 3000 is a Swiss-made portable typewriter that was first introduced in the 1950s. This machine is known for its sleek design and durability, making it a popular choice among writers and collectors alike. Hanks’ Hermes 3000 is a testament to the machine’s enduring quality, with its original finish and mechanisms still intact.
Tom Hanks’ Favorite Typewriters
While Hanks has a vast collection of typewriters, there are a few machines that hold a special place in his heart. Among his favorites are the following:
- Sholes & Glidden Type-Writer (1874): This machine is one of the earliest commercially produced typewriters in the world. Hanks’ Sholes & Glidden is a rare example of this model, with its original wooden case and intricate mechanisms still intact.
- Underwood No. 5 (1900): The Underwood No. 5 is a classic American-made typewriter that was popular among writers in the early 20th century. Hanks’ Underwood No. 5 is a beautifully restored machine, with its original finish and decals still visible.
- IBM Selectric (1961): The IBM Selectric is a iconic electric typewriter that was popular among writers and businesses in the 1960s. Hanks’ IBM Selectric is a rare example of this model, with its original finish and mechanisms still intact.
What Makes These Typewriters Special?
So, what makes these typewriters so special to Tom Hanks? For Hanks, it’s not just about the machines themselves, but the stories and history behind them. Each typewriter in his collection has a unique story to tell, from the writers who used them to the events they witnessed.
A Typewriter’s Story: The Sholes & Glidden
The Sholes & Glidden Type-Writer is a machine that holds a special place in the history of typewriters. Invented by Christopher Sholes in 1868, this machine was the first commercially produced typewriter in the world. Hanks’ Sholes & Glidden is a rare example of this model, with its original wooden case and intricate mechanisms still intact. This machine is a testament to the ingenuity and innovation of its inventor, and a reminder of the important role that typewriters have played in shaping the world of writing.
Tom Hanks’ Typewriter App
In 2014, Tom Hanks released a typewriter app for the iPad, called Hanx Writer. This app allows users to experience the joy of typing on a vintage typewriter, without the need for a physical machine. The app features a range of typewriter models, each with its unique sound and feel.
How Hanx Writer Works
Hanx Writer is a simple yet intuitive app that allows users to type on a virtual typewriter. The app features a range of typewriter models, each with its unique sound and feel. Users can choose from a range of fonts and paper styles, and even share their work on social media.
A Closer Look at Hanx Writer
Hanx Writer is a beautifully designed app that captures the essence of typing on a vintage typewriter. The app’s attention to detail is impressive, from the sound of the keys clacking to the feel of the paper rolling through the machine. Whether you’re a writer, a collector, or simply someone who loves the nostalgia of typewriters, Hanx Writer is an app that is sure to delight.
Conclusion
Tom Hanks’ typewriter collection is a testament to the enduring power of these machines. From the early days of writing to the present day, typewriters have played a vital role in shaping the world of literature. Whether you’re a writer, a collector, or simply someone who loves the nostalgia of typewriters, Hanks’ collection is a reminder of the importance of preserving our cultural heritage.
A Final Thought
As we look to the future of writing, it’s clear that typewriters will continue to play an important role in shaping the world of literature. Whether you’re a fan of Tom Hanks or simply someone who loves the nostalgia of typewriters, his collection is a reminder of the power of these machines to inspire and create.
| Typewriter Model | Year Released | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|
| Hermes 3000 | 1950s | Portable, durable, and sleek design |
| Sholes & Glidden Type-Writer | 1874 | One of the earliest commercially produced typewriters, wooden case, and intricate mechanisms |
| Underwood No. 5 | 1900 | Classic American-made typewriter, beautifully restored, and original finish and decals still visible |
| IBM Selectric | 1961 | Iconic electric typewriter, rare example, and original finish and mechanisms still intact |
In conclusion, Tom Hanks’ typewriter collection is a fascinating look into the world of vintage typewriters. From the early days of writing to the present day, these machines have played a vital role in shaping the world of literature. Whether you’re a writer, a collector, or simply someone who loves the nostalgia of typewriters, Hanks’ collection is a reminder of the importance of preserving our cultural heritage.
What sparked Tom Hanks’ interest in collecting typewriters?
Tom Hanks’ fascination with typewriters began when he was a young actor. He received his first typewriter, a Hermes 2000, as a gift from his parents. This sparked a lifelong passion for collecting and restoring vintage typewriters. Over the years, Hanks has amassed an impressive collection of over 200 machines, each with its unique history and character.
Hanks’ love for typewriters is not just about collecting rare machines; it’s also about the stories they tell. He believes that each typewriter has a history, and the words written on them have the power to transport us to another time and place. This fascination with the storytelling potential of typewriters has driven Hanks to continue collecting and learning about these machines.
What is the rarest typewriter in Tom Hanks’ collection?
One of the rarest and most valuable typewriters in Tom Hanks’ collection is the Sholes & Glidden Type-Writer, patented in 1874. This machine is considered one of the first commercially produced typewriters and is extremely rare, with only a handful of examples known to exist. Hanks’ Sholes & Glidden is in excellent working condition and is a prized possession in his collection.
The Sholes & Glidden Type-Writer is not only a rare machine but also an important piece of history. It represents the early days of typewriter development and the innovative spirit of its inventors, Christopher Sholes and Carlos Glidden. Hanks’ ownership of this machine is a testament to his dedication to preserving the history of typewriters and their role in shaping the world of writing.
How does Tom Hanks use his typewriter collection?
Tom Hanks is an avid user of his typewriter collection. He often writes letters, stories, and even scripts on his machines. Hanks believes that writing on a typewriter helps him connect with the material on a deeper level and allows him to tap into his creativity. He has been known to use different typewriters for different projects, depending on the tone and style he wants to achieve.
In addition to writing, Hanks also uses his typewriters to educate others about the history and mechanics of these machines. He has created a series of videos showcasing his collection and sharing his knowledge with the public. By sharing his passion for typewriters, Hanks hopes to inspire a new generation of writers and collectors to appreciate the beauty and significance of these machines.
Has Tom Hanks ever exhibited his typewriter collection publicly?
Yes, Tom Hanks has exhibited his typewriter collection publicly on several occasions. In 2013, he loaned a selection of his machines to the Museum of the Moving Image in New York City for an exhibition titled “The Typewriter Collection of Tom Hanks.” The exhibition showcased over 20 typewriters from Hanks’ collection, including some of the rarest and most historic machines.
The exhibition was a huge success, attracting thousands of visitors and generating widespread media attention. Hanks has also exhibited his typewriters at other museums and events, including the Smithsonian National Museum of American History in Washington, D.C. By sharing his collection with the public, Hanks aims to promote a greater appreciation for the history and cultural significance of typewriters.
Does Tom Hanks restore his typewriters himself?
While Tom Hanks is an enthusiastic collector and user of typewriters, he does not typically restore his machines himself. Instead, he works with a team of skilled restorers and conservators who specialize in vintage typewriters. These experts carefully clean, repair, and refurbish the machines to ensure they are in good working condition.
Hanks has developed close relationships with several restorers over the years, who share his passion for preserving the history and integrity of these machines. By working with experts, Hanks can ensure that his typewriters are restored to their former glory and will continue to function for generations to come.
Can I purchase a typewriter from Tom Hanks’ collection?
It is highly unlikely that Tom Hanks would sell a typewriter from his collection. Hanks is a dedicated collector and preservationist, and his machines are deeply personal and meaningful to him. He has stated publicly that he intends to keep his collection intact and pass it down to future generations.
However, Hanks has been known to donate typewriters to museums and educational institutions, where they can be appreciated and used by the public. He has also created a series of apps and digital tools that allow users to experience the thrill of typing on a vintage machine, even if they don’t own one themselves.
What is the significance of Tom Hanks’ typewriter collection in the digital age?
Tom Hanks’ typewriter collection serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving our cultural heritage in the digital age. As we increasingly rely on digital tools and technology, it’s easy to forget the tactile, hands-on experience of writing on a typewriter. Hanks’ collection celebrates the beauty and significance of these machines, which played a crucial role in shaping the world of writing and communication.
Moreover, Hanks’ collection highlights the value of slowing down and appreciating the process of writing. In an era of instant gratification and digital distractions, his typewriters encourage us to take a step back, reflect, and savor the joy of putting words on paper. By preserving and sharing his collection, Hanks inspires us to appreciate the simple pleasures of writing and the machines that made it possible.