At InkSmart.co.nz, we love helping you find the perfect replacement ribbons for your cherished typewriter. But beyond just sourcing supplies, one of the big joys of owning a vintage or classic typewriter is knowing exactly what you’ve got: the brand, model, year of manufacture, and any special quirks. That’s where the Typewriter Database comes in.
What is the Typewriter Database?
The Typewriter Database (TWDB) is probably the largest freely-accessible online archive of typewriter serial numbers, makes, models, production years and associated galleries of machines. typewriterdatabase.com
It allows you to look up a brand (say, Olympia, Smith-Corona, Olivetti, etc.), then drill down by model and serial range, and see when a given machine was produced. For example, if you find the serial number on your machine, you can compare it with the age list in TWDB to determine the year of manufacture. typecast.munk.org
In addition to serial lookup, TWDB provides image galleries of machines, data on typefaces, patents, manuals and more. It’s a valuable resource for hobbyists, collectors, users and any one of us who wants to know their typewriter beyond simply “it still types”.
Why it matters to you
When you order a ribbon from InkSmart, you want to be sure it’s the right type for your machine. Knowing the exact make and model (and sometimes year) helps ensure compatibility—right spool size, right ribbon width, correct color options, etc. By using TWDB you can:
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Confirm that you have the correct manufacturer (brand) and model listed.
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Verify serial numbers so you can pinpoint the production era of your machine (which helps with knowing specifications).
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Browse image galleries to visually compare your machine to other examples of the same model—great when labels or markings are faded.
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Educate yourself on any quirks or variants (for example, “portable vs standard” versions, or colour-options) that affect ribbon fit or selection.
How to use the Typewriter Database in four easy steps
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Find your brand and model
Go to typewriterdatabase.com and use the “Select Typewriter Brand or Type Name” search field. Enter your brand, e.g., Smith-Corona, Olivetti, Olympia. -
Locate the age/serial list
On the brand page you’ll often find an “Age List” or “Serial Number Database” section. Here you can scroll through model names and serial ranges (e.g., SN: 5-1240874) to match your machine. typecast.munk.org -
Compare serial number and model
Write down your serial number (found stamped on the machine) and check the list to see which year or range it corresponds to. This confirms your model year. -
Use image galleries for reference
Browse the photo gallery for your model to visually check your machine’s details—body shape, key layout, colour, model badge—so you can ensure your machine is the exact variant, making ribbon match-up easier. BoffoSocko.com
Tips & caveats
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TWDB is extensive, but not perfect. Some models or years may be missing or have incomplete data. A number of users have noted gaps in the serial lists especially for later models. typecast.munk.org
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Serial number lists often show a range of years, so your machine might fall within a window rather than a precise date.
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Registering at TWDB (free) allows you to upload gallery photos of your machine, contribute to the community, and save your findings. typewriterdatabase.com
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If you find your machine variant but can’t match the exact ribbon size or specification, send the model info to us at InkSmart and we’ll help find the correct ribbon.
How InkSmart supports you
At InkSmart we specialise in premium replacement ribbons for typewriters of all ages, makes and models. By using TWDB first to identify your machine, you’ll make everything easier—right from searching our product filters (brand + model) to ensuring you pick the correct ribbon width, spool type and colour.
Once you know your machine’s details, step over to InkSmart.co.nz → Search using brand + model, and we’ll help you with the right ribbon, installation tips, and support. Your machine deserves the perfect match to keep it typing flawlessly.
Final thought
Whether you’re using a well-worn portable from decades past or an electric office model you recently inherited, knowing exactly what you have is part of the fun. The Typewriter Database gives you the tools to identify your machine, unlock its history, and ensure you pick the right supplies.
So before you fit your next ribbon, visit typewriterdatabase.com, find your brand, match the serial, browse the gallery—and then come back to InkSmart to order with confidence. Your typewriter will thank you.